More Than a Diagnosis
ADHD affects how children and teens focus, manage impulses, regulate emotions, and organize themselves. But it also comes with real strengths: curiosity, creativity, energy, and the ability to think differently.
Therapy at Little Waves looks beyond the label. Sessions explore the whole child or teen: what makes things hard, what helps, what they're good at, and what they want for themselves. The goal is not to 'fix' ADHD, but to help young people understand themselves better and build skills that genuinely support them in daily life.
Parents are an important part of the process. Understanding your child's ADHD and knowing how to respond in helpful, supportive ways makes a real difference in how your child experiences themselves at home and at school.
- Understanding how ADHD affects them specifically
- Building focus and organization strategies
- Managing impulsivity and slowing down reactions
- Emotional regulation and frustration tolerance
- Self-esteem and a positive self-concept
- Social skills and navigating peer relationships
- Managing school demands and transitions
- Supporting parents to understand and respond effectively
ADHD is not a character flaw or a lack of effort. It is a neurological difference that responds well to the right support and many children and teens with ADHD go on to do remarkable things.
How We Approach ADHD Support
Every child is different. Tap an approach below to see how it fits into the work, Lianne combines these to build a plan that fits the individual.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Helps children and teens identify patterns of thinking that affect their behaviour, build problem-solving skills, and develop more effective strategies for managing daily challenges.
Looking for ADHD support?
Every journey starts with a first step. Reach out and we'll find the right path forward for your child or teen, together.
66 Centre St, Thornhill, ON · In-person & virtual sessions available
FAQCommon Questions About ADHD
What are signs of ADHD in children and teens?
ADHD can appear as difficulty focusing, impulsivity, forgetfulness, disorganization, emotional intensity, or a high need for movement. It often affects school performance, friendships, and family relationships.
Can therapy help with ADHD without medication?
Therapy can be helpful for children and teens with ADHD by supporting areas such as emotional regulation, organization, impulse control, coping skills, and self-esteem. Treatment can be used alongside other supports, including medication, when appropriate.
Does Little Waves diagnose ADHD?
We do not offer formal psychological assessments or diagnoses. If an assessment is needed, we can help connect you with the right resources. We work with children and teens who have a confirmed ADHD diagnosis or who are showing ADHD-related traits.
How does therapy for ADHD differ for children vs. teens?
For younger children, we often use more play-based, visual, and hands-on strategies. For teens, we focus more on building self-awareness, executive function skills, and identity, since ADHD often affects how teens see themselves.