ADHD FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ADHD CARE

Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about ADHD and how we provide personalized care.

Atara Health Solutions > ADHD Support > ADHD FAQs

Understanding ADHD and Our Care Approach

We understand that navigating ADHD can raise many questions, and we’re here to provide clear, informative answers. This page is designed to address common inquiries about ADHD, our diagnostic process, and the personalized care we offer. Whether you’re seeking more information about symptoms, treatment options, or how we tailor our approach to each individual, you’ll find the answers you need to make informed decisions.

What is ADHD?

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms can affect your life in school, work, relationships, home life, and more.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

Symptoms can vary, but generally include a clinically relevant degree of these and other symptoms:

Difficulty focusing or maintaining attention
Frequent daydreaming
Trouble organizing tasks and activities
Trouble with task completion, poor time management, and chronic procrastination
Impulsiveness, leading to hasty decisions or poor life choices
Difficulty waiting for one’s turn
Hyperactivity or restlessness, such as fidgeting or tapping
Forgetfulness in daily activities
Frequent interruptions in conversations or activities
Losing things necessary for tasks (e.g., keys, phone, school materials)
Difficulty following through on instructions or completing tasks
Easily distracted by external stimuli, making it hard to concentrate

These symptoms significantly impact daily life, relationships, and academic or work performance.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

There is no single, definitive test for ADHD. ADHD is typically diagnosed by a healthcare professional through a comprehensive evaluation, including clinical interviews, questionnaires, and behavioral assessments. It is important that your ADHD assessment include evaluations for physical health conditions, sleep disorders, and other psychiatric conditions that can mimic or worsen ADHD.

At Atara Health, we use the QbTest from Qbtech, an FDA-cleared medical device which allow us to base our treatment plans on precise, objective data. Your ADHD assessment will include a self-reported rating scale, a detailed clinical interview, and the in-person computer-based QbTest.

How can ADHD be treated?

ADHD can be managed through a combination of strategies, including:

Medications, including stimulants eg. methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Adderall); non-stimulants, e.g. atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv).
Behavioral Therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Parent Training, Social Skills Training, and Executive Function Coaching.
Lifestyle Changes, including regular exercise, healthy diet and better sleep habits.
Educational and Workplace Support, including Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 Plans, Tutoring or Specialized Instruction
Additional support or accommodations for academic challenges.

Is ADHD just a childhood disorder?

No, ADHD persists into adulthood. Many adults with ADHD may have learned to cope with their symptoms, but they can still face challenges in various aspects of life, such as work and relationships.

What can I do if I think I have ADHD?

If you suspect you have ADHD, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an evaluation. They can provide guidance and help you explore appropriate treatment options.

Why ADHD Treatment Is Important

Getting formally diagnosed and treated for ADHD is crucial for several reasons.

A proper diagnosis can clarify the challenges a person faces, helping them understand their behavior and feelings.
Treatment options, including medication and therapy, can significantly improve focus, organization, and emotional regulation, leading to enhanced daily functioning.
Early intervention can lead to better academic and professional outcomes, reducing feelings of frustration and low self-esteem.
A formal diagnosis can provide access to support systems, accommodations, and resources, fostering a more positive and fulfilling life.

Ultimately, understanding and managing ADHD empowers individuals to reach their full potential.

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MEET OUR TEAM

Norm Jacobowitz, APRN

HE/HIM | CARING FOR PATIENTS AGES 18-64

Specializing in Medication Management, ADHD Assessment, and Treatment Support

Norm graduated from Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, in 1992. While working in the IT industry, he volunteered as a suicide hotline telephone worker for a year. Finding the work both rewarding and much in need, he took a massive pay cut to work in a psychiatric hospital, caring for the most vulnerable and gravely ill patients. He attended nursing school during this time, and upon graduation became a…MORE

Mary Fisher, APRN

SHE/HER | CARING FOR PATIENTS AGES 10+

Specializing in Behavioral Healthcare, Psychotherapy, ADHD Support

Mary Fisher is a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has been a member of the nursing profession for 30 years. She is a graduate of Radford University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She also holds a master’s in nursing from the University of Virginia. Her clinical interests include the treatment of children and adolescents as well as the medically complex. Her duaL…MORE

REVIEWS FROM REAL PATIENTS

    
 
 
       
   Kelly Dalton 
 June 18, 2026
 
 
  I've used this practice for years and Norm has truly changed my life! After years of treating me, he also referred me to a psychotherapist who matches with me perfectly!
  
 
      
   Monica C 
 June 4, 2026
 
 
  Norm is compassionate, professional, and dedicated to his patients. I appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with him and would not hesitate to recommend him.
  
 
      
   Heather Mousa 
 October 10, 2025
 
 
  I’ve been seeing Norm as my primary mental health provider for over ten years, and I honestly don’t think any review could do him justice. He’s exceptionally thorough, compassionate, and professional. He tracks my progress closely, remembers every detail, and always follows up — even on things I forget. He listens, takes my feedback seriously, and never dismisses even the smallest concern. What I appreciate most is how dedicated he is to staying current — always learning, keeping up with new research and medications, and seeking healthier, more effective solutions. Finding a provider who combines genuine empathy with deep knowledge and consistency is rare. I’m so grateful for his care and can’t recommend him highly enough.
  
 
      
   Mahawa Mansaray 
 December 18, 2024
 
 
  Mr Norman is a wonderful and caring man, I went to him about a year ago with so many years of untreated mental health issues not only I feel safe talking to him he's able to get me where I am today and I am so grateful for him. It's still a on going healing and he's on right track. Thank you Mr Norman
  
 
      
   Caitlin Davis 
 December 6, 2023
 
 
  This is by far the best experience I’ve had with a mental health professional, he is dedicated, trustworthy and very intelligent. You know he cares about your health and progress above all else, could not recommend more!
  
 
      
   Smita Chand 
 October 26, 2023
 
 
  Hi, as a South Asian, it is a very big deal for me to post publicly about something related to my mental health, but that is exactly why I want to. We all have very real struggles and support and care which is exactly what I have received from Norm. He helped me uncover a diagnosis that provided me so much insight and healing into something I have struggled with my whole life. Norm is incredibly intelligent, compassionate, kind, and caring. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking support of a psychiatrist beyond the 5 to 10 minutes in an appointment otherwise.
  
 
      
   Michael Spencer 
 May 2, 2023
 
 
  Norman is highly personable and makes you feel comfortable right off the bat. I think that is important for therapy. The same goes for the staff. Highly recommend!
  
 
      
   Jordan Baylor 
 March 27, 2023
 
 
  I have been receiving quality care from Norman since 2019, during this period my health and wellbeing have always been placed at the forefront. I cannot stress enough how grateful I am to Norman for the exceptional level of care I have received. I highly recommend Norman Jacobowitz if you are looking for the best care possible.
  
 
      
   laura cole 
 December 15, 2022
 
 
  I've been seeing Norm for a little over a year and he's been great - he's helpful, supportive, and (most importantly) he's really comfortable to talk to. I've had providers in the past that I dreaded appointments with, but I actually look forward to talking to Norm. He's knowledgeable about different medications and types of treatment, but he isn't pushy about any of them which is like a breath of fresh air after having dealt with that in the past. I definitely recommend Norm Jacobowitz to anyone looking for a provider!
  
 
      
   Olivia Djoble 
 September 26, 2022
 
 
  Norman J is outstanding. He his extremely professional and does his job perfectly. I have been under his care for about 2 years now and everything he has done for me has been working amazingly.
  
 
      
   Sue Krcelic 
 December 1, 2021
 
 
  Norm is a great NP to work with.  He offers suggestions on medication changes we can try.
  
 
      
   Delores Jordan 
 November 10, 2021
 
 
  Dr.Jacobwitz listened and isvery interested in helping the patient.
  
 
      
   Nicole Puri 
 October 28, 2021
 
 
  Mr. Jacobowitz is professional but has a sense of humor, which I appreciate.  He treats me with respect and understands what I’m going through.  He explains everything thoroughly and I feel like he actually cares that I get the individualized and appropriate treatment for my needs.  I’m improving and feel hopeful I will continue to improve under his care.
  
 
      
   Kent Barnett 
 October 27, 2021
 
 
  Norm's is the best,
  
 
      
   Daniel 
 October 20, 2021
 
 
  A very genuine and good dude who just wants the best for his patients. He will listen to everything you have to say and make you feel welcomed and appreciated. Nothing is a bad question and he is always there. He is very knowledgeable and will do his best to make sure you understand what his course of action is and the plan form there on out.