What is ADHD?

ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and is a neurobiological condition. ADHD is a complex condition that, despite certain similarities, can present very differently from one person to another. We therefore always tailor treatment based on a thorough assessment of your specific challenges, so that the treatment programme matches your situation, preferences and goals.

Core features of the condition

• Attention difficulties: People with ADHD often experience difficulties maintaining focus on tasks and activities. They may be easily distracted and have difficulty organising their thoughts and tasks.
• Impulsivity: People with ADHD may have a tendency to act impulsively, which can result in quick decisions without sufficient consideration of the consequences.
• Hyperactivity: Another characteristic of ADHD is a persistent feeling of restlessness and hyperactivity. This may appear as difficulty sitting still and regulating energy levels.

Types of ADHD

It is important to know that there are different types of ADHD. ADD is essentially the same diagnosis as ADHD, but without the typical symptoms of hyperactivity. The three main types are:

• ADD – primarily inattentive: This form is mainly characterised by difficulties with attention and focus. It can lead to disorganised behaviour and difficulty completing tasks.
• ADHD – primarily hyperactive and impulsive: People with this type may find it difficult to control their impulses, resulting in impulsive behaviour and difficulty thinking before acting.
• ADHD – combined attention difficulties, hyperactivity and impulsivity: The most common form, involving a combination of attention problems, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Symptoms of ADHD

The symptoms of ADHD can vary considerably from person to person and may include a range of behavioural and cognitive challenges in everyday life. It is important to emphasise that you do not necessarily need to experience all of these symptoms to have an ADHD diagnosis.

Typical signs and everyday challenges

• Difficulty maintaining focus and concentration.
• Impulsive behaviour, including interrupting others during conversations.
• Hyperactivity and noticeable inner restlessness.
• Problems with organisation and frequent forgetfulness in everyday life.
• Significant difficulty completing tasks that have been started.
• Persistent worries, rumination and exhausting racing thoughts.

How is ADHD treated?

People living with ADHD often face complex challenges that extend beyond the original attention difficulties. Many also experience anxiety, depression, stress, or difficulties related to alcohol or medication use. These associated difficulties are often what make everyday life particularly challenging.

Metacognitive Therapy as the primary method

At Charlottenlund Private Hospital, our approach is based on metacognitive therapy, which has shown particular effectiveness for the psychological difficulties that often accompany ADHD. The method focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour that contribute to worry, anxiety, depression and stress.

The aim is not to remove ADHD — it is part of who you are — but to work with the patterns that make everyday life difficult. Many people find that they gain more mental capacity and a greater sense of control when racing thoughts and worries become less overwhelming.

ADHD in children and adolescents

For children and adolescents, we offer both psychological and neuropsychological assessments as well as treatment. The programme is always tailored with a focus on the child’s well-being and development across their usual everyday environments.

Parental involvement and multidisciplinary support

The programme is always planned with parents as active partners, as change is best maintained when the child’s everyday environment is aligned with the work being done in therapy. With agreement, we may also involve other relevant adults, such as childcare professionals, teachers or other specialists, so that together we can create a comprehensive approach around the child.

Assessment and evaluation

We offer thorough psychological and neuropsychological assessments for children, adolescents and adults. Our specialist assessment programmes provide a solid and professional basis for further evaluation.

What can the assessment be used for?

The assessment can be used as a basis for further treatment, documentation for the workplace, job centre or educational institution, or as part of a broader assessment within the healthcare system.

How to get started

You can book an appointment directly without a referral from your doctor. We prioritise short waiting times so that you or your child can begin the assessment or treatment process quickly.



Coverage through private health insurance

Many private health insurance policies cover all or part of the cost of assessment and treatment. Please contact us if you are unsure about your individual coverage.