When should I start ADHD therapy for my child?

The earlier, the better. If teachers or paediatricians flag attention or hyperactivity issues, book an assessment within a month.

How long does each therapy programme last?

The active phase runs 12–16 weeks, followed by maintenance sessions as needed.

Is behaviour therapy effective without medication?

Yes. Roughly 60 % of children at Cadabams CDC show meaningful gains with therapy alone.

What is the role of parents during sessions?

Parents attend the final 5–10 minutes of every session, practise skills at home, and share daily feedback

How do I know if the therapist is a good fit?

Your child should look forward to sessions, and you should feel heard and supported after each meeting.

Can therapy be combined with school support plans?

Absolutely. Cadabams therapists routinely attend IEP meetings and draft 504-plan accommodations.

How long does child counselling typically take?

Duration varies widely based on the child's needs, goals, engagement, and the complexity of challenges. Some children benefit from shorter-term counselling focused on specific coping skills, while others may engage in longer-term therapy for deeper exploration of self-esteem or emotional regulation issues. Progress is reviewed regularly with the family.

Child Counsellor for ADHD | Cadabam’s Child Development Center

When you’re searching for a child counsellor for ADHD, you want clear facts and real hope. Cadabams CDC has spent over three decades helping children sharpen focus, regulate emotions, and build lasting friendships—without relying solely on medication. This article walks you through what to expect, what to ask, and how early, evidence-based therapy can change your child’s life.

Understanding the Role of a Child Counsellor in ADHD Treatment

How Counselling Differs from Medication for ADHD Kids

Medication balances brain chemistry quickly, but it does not teach skills.
Child counselling for ADHD builds executive-function skills such as planning, impulse control, and emotional regulation—skills that last a lifetime.
Most families see the best results when therapy and medication are combined. However, many children progress well with counselling alone, especially when intervention starts early.

Credentials & Specialisations to Look For

Master’s or doctoral degree in clinical psychology, counselling psychology, or special education.
Additional certification in ADHD-specific behaviour therapy (e.g., CBT for ADHD).
Experience running social-skills groups and parent-coaching sessions.
Familiarity with school IEPs and 504 plans to ensure seamless collaboration.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Neuroplasticity is highest before age 10; new habits form faster.
Early counselling lowers the risk of academic failure, low self-esteem, and family stress.
At Cadabams CDC, 82 % of families report noticeable gains in focus and cooperation within the first 12 sessions.

Our Child ADHD Therapy Programs

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Children with ADHD

Core focus: Linking thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Tools include “Stop-Think-Act” cards, role-play, and guided self-talk scripts.
Weekly 45-minute sessions, delivered through play-based activities for ages 4–7 and structured worksheets for ages 8–12.

Parent Training & Coaching

Learn positive reinforcement techniques that work in kitchens and classrooms.
Live-modeling sessions: the therapist coaches you in real time while you manage homework or bedtime.
Access to the Cadabams Parent App with daily tips and progress trackers.

Executive Functioning & Social Skills Groups

Small groups of 4–6 children matched by age and challenge level.
Weekly 60-minute sessions covering:
Time-management games
Turn-taking practice
Emotion-labeling charades
Parents receive a summary sheet after every session with home-practice ideas.

How to Choose the Right ADHD Therapist for Your Child

Key Questions to Ask During the First Consultation

“How many children with ADHD have you counselled in the past year?”
“Do you involve schools in the treatment plan?”
“How will you measure my child’s progress?”
“What happens if my child refuses to participate in a session?”

Red Flags to Avoid When Selecting a Therapist

Promises of a “quick fix” in under six sessions.
No parent involvement or homework assignments.
Refusal to coordinate with teachers or paediatricians.
Over-emphasis on punishment rather than skill-building.

What Homework Looks Like in Behaviour Therapy

For the child: A five-minute “chore timer” game to practise sustained attention.
For the parent: A sticker chart that rewards two specific behaviours—e.g., putting shoes in the rack and finishing homework without reminders.
For the school: A short daily report card that tracks three target behaviours, emailed to the therapist weekly.

What Happens in Child ADHD Therapy Sessions

Typical Session Structure for Kids

5-minute check-in with feelings-rating emoji cards.
25-minute skill practice (game, worksheet, or role-play).
10-minute reflection—child sets a personal goal for the week.
5-minute parent recap—therapist demonstrates the skill and hands over homework.

Home & School Collaboration Strategies

Shared Google Drive folder with session notes, teacher tip sheets, and reward-chart templates.
Monthly 30-minute Zoom call with teacher and parents to adjust goals.
On-site observation visits at school if needed—no extra charge within Bangalore city limits.

Duration & Milestones of Treatment

Initial assessment: 2 sessions over one week.
Core therapy: 12–16 weekly sessions.
Maintenance phase: Bi-weekly or monthly sessions for 3–6 months.
Milestones tracked: on-task behaviour during 20-minute homework, number of peer invitations received, and parent stress index.

Benefits & Real Outcomes of ADHD Therapy for Kids

Improved Focus & Self-Regulation

Average 35 % increase in sustained attention during standardised CPT tests.
60 % reduction in impulsive blurting within classroom observations after eight sessions.

Stronger Parent–Child Relationships

Parent stress scores drop by 25 % on the Parenting Stress Index.
Evening homework battles cut from 45 minutes to under 15 minutes in 70 % of families.