S. I. F. T. COUNSELING AND CONSULTATION
JESS DEKKER, MA, LMHCA
Examining the Societal: Internal: Familial: Theological Structures
that inform how we move through our life and relationships
Serving clients in Washington State via telehealth therapy sessions
425.970.9957
Parenting Consultation & ADHD Support
Helping families bolster their toolbox of skills to nurture their relationship with their child and assisting parents (and adults) in
creating helpful daily habits to effectively manage symptoms and the impacts of ADHD.
*Note: As an LMHCA, I cannot diagnose and am not a medication prescriber. For diagnosis and medication needs please contact your primary care physician*
Parenting
Parenting can bring both a sense of deep joy and immense hardship to one's life. Raising a child with ADHD can add to the complexity of the parenting experience. Research has indicated that caregivers raising a child with ADHD report particularly high levels of stress. ADHD also has a strong genetic component, as such many children with ADHD are being raised by a parent who also has ADHD. There is a growing need for parental support in navigating the unique challenges of raising a child with ADHD, while also managing their own symptoms. And whether a parent has ADHD or not, they have their or own story that informs their orientation to parenting. When parents are able to do their own inner work, the ripples extend far beyond just themselves; the whole family benefits.
Childhood ADHD
ADHD is the most prevalent childhood disorder diagnosed today. Many children with ADHD experience issues with impulse control, focus, executive functioning, and social interactions. Subsequently, they often receive high rates of negative attention and suffer feelings of rejection and lower self-esteem. Collaborating with parents when their families are experiencing obstacles in their collective lives and/or in their children’s behavioral and mental health is crucial. Most behavioral changes are seen with a top-down approach: when parents get what they need, their children do, too. Focusing exclusively on the parenting side of the parent-child relationship, I enjoy the work of coming alongside parents who are looking for ways to improve their relationship with their children. Kids with ADHD are frequently creative, insightful, perceptive, and see the world in vibrant colors. Taking a strengths-based approach to care with parents can help bring out and magnify the gold their kids possess.
Adult ADHD
Living with ADHD is existing in the reality that there is a mismatch between you and the systems around you. Society often lumps people who don't operate well within their parameters as disordered. Addressing and breaking down shame-based narratives is central to managing and thriving with ADHD. You are not lazy, you are not a screw up, and your struggles are not a moral failing on your part. Rather, there is a failing of our culture's structures to be accessible and to serve those who have a different operating system. Building practical skills to bridge the gap between you and the world is crucial to your well-being.