Understanding the ABCs of ADHD: A Gestalt and Person-Centred Approach

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) impacts millions of people globally, introducing unique obstacles to everyday life. By integrating Gestalt therapy with a person-centred approach, individuals can cultivate a comprehensive method for managing ADHD, emphasizing self-awareness, personal development, and mindfulness. Let’s delve deeper into the ABCs of ADHD from this integrated perspective.

A – Awareness and Attunement

In Gestalt therapy, awareness is central to promoting personal growth and transformation. Individuals managing ADHD benefit greatly from cultivating increased awareness of their internal experiences and external surroundings. Key practices include:

– Mindfulness: Observing the present moment calmly and without judgement – Body Awareness: Becoming aware of bodily sensations and their link to emotions and behaviours – Environmental Sensitivity: Noticing how various environments affect attention and energy

Person-centred therapy highlights the significance of self-awareness coupled with acceptance. For those with ADHD, this might involve:

– Practicing self-compassion: Embracing ADHD symptoms without negative self-evaluation – Highlighting strengths: Identifying and nurturing abilities often associated with ADHD – Open self-expression: Encouraging honest communication about personal needs and challenges

B – Being and Behaviour

Gestalt therapy emphasizes existing fully in the present moment and understanding how one interacts with their environment. For ADHD management, this approach involves:

– Present-Focused Techniques: Using methods that ground individuals in the here-and-now – Active Exploration: Participating in practical exercises or role-playing to understand behaviours better – Integrative Perspective: Understanding the interrelation between thoughts, emotions, and actions

Person-centred therapy offers unconditional positive regard, nurturing an individual’s natural tendency toward growth. People with ADHD can benefit by:

– Exploring behaviours without criticism: Avoiding labels like “good” or “bad” and focusing instead on understanding – Facilitating self-driven change: Supporting individuals in defining their own objectives and methods – Promoting personal potential: Concentrating on growth possibilities rather than perceived limitations

C – Contact and Consequences

Gestalt therapy describes “contact” as the interaction between an individual and their surroundings, including social relationships. Effective ADHD management using this approach includes:

– Understanding Boundaries: Identifying personal limits and clearly communicating them – Navigating Relationships: Reflecting on how ADHD impacts personal interactions – Environmental Awareness: Recognizing how different contexts affect one’s attention and behaviour

Person-centred therapy emphasizes genuine interpersonal relationships rooted in empathy. Applied to ADHD management, this could include:

– Building supportive relationships: Developing connections characterized by empathy and acceptance – Collaborative problem-solving: Engaging with others to create practical solutions – Empathetic communication: Helping others to understand the lived experience of someone with ADHD

Integrating the ABC Approach

Combining Gestalt and person-centred principles equips individuals with ADHD to gain a profound understanding of themselves and encourages meaningful life changes. This holistic approach promotes:

– Self-exploration: Identifying patterns and personal triggers through reflective and experiential exercises – Adaptive creativity: Developing personalized strategies aligned with individual strengths and preferences – Comprehensive well-being: Addressing ADHD within the broader context of overall life satisfaction

Final Thoughts

Managing ADHD through a Gestalt and person-centered lens involves embracing self-awareness, focusing on present experiences, and fostering genuine connections. This approach recognizes that each individual with ADHD has unique experiences and innate potential for growth.

The path to managing ADHD is highly individual. While professional support can be incredibly beneficial, it is essential to trust your own insights and ability to create meaningful change. By nurturing awareness, embracing authenticity, and actively engaging with your environment, you can effectively manage ADHD and enhance your overall quality of life.

Chuck LeBlanc

Citations:
[1] https://repository.up.ac.za/bitstream/handle/2263/62656/Serfontein_Effect_2017.pdf?isAllowed=y&sequence=1
[2] https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/what-is-gestalt-therapy
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/ADHD/comments/1cfab5j/what_type_of_therapy_worked_best_for_you_and_adhd/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2957279/
[5] https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapy-types/gestalt-therapy