ADHD & RECBT: Understanding Attention, Emotion, and Self-Regulation

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is not simply a difficulty with focus. It is a neurodevelopmental profile that affects emotional regulation, persistence, impulse control, motivation, and self-evaluation across childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.

At the Hellenic Institute for Rational-Emotive & Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (RECBT), we approach ADHD through an evidence-based, compassionate, and skills-focused framework, helping individuals move from self-criticism and overwhelm toward clarity, structure, and self-trust.

How RECBT Helps with ADHD

RECBT addresses ADHD not only at the behavioral level, but also at the belief and emotional level, where much of the long-term distress is maintained.

Our work focuses on:

  • Emotional intensity and frustration tolerance
  • Overthinking, mental fatigue, and “brain fog”
  • Anger and impulse regulation
  • Unrelenting standards and perfectionism
  • Low frustration tolerance and self-criticism
  • Persistence difficulties and burnout cycles

RECBT helps individuals replace rigid, self-defeating beliefs (e.g. “I must perform perfectly,” “I can’t tolerate mistakes,” “If I fail, I am a failure”) with flexible, realistic, and empowering thinking patterns.

ADHD Is Not a Character Flaw

Many individuals with ADHD grow up internalizing the belief that they are:
• Lazy
• Disorganized
• Unmotivated
• “Not trying hard enough”

In reality, ADHD reflects differences in executive functioning and emotional regulation, not a lack of intelligence, values, or potential.

RECBT supports clients in:
• Separating self-worth from performance
• Building structure without harsh self-pressure
• Developing sustainable habits instead of willpower battles
• Strengthening emotional self-control without suppression

Our RECBT-Based Approach Includes

  • Psychoeducation on ADHD and emotional regulation
  • Rational-Emotive belief restructuring
  • Anger and frustration management
  • Habit formation adapted to ADHD neurobiology
  • Stress tolerance and resilience training
  • Identity and self-esteem repair
  • Support for children, adolescents, adults, and families

All interventions are individualized, practical, and grounded in scientific research.

Who Can Benefit

  • Children and adolescents with attention or emotional regulation difficulties
  • University students experiencing overload, procrastination, or burnout
  • Adults with ADHD traits affecting work, relationships, or self-confidence
  • Parents seeking guidance and support
  • High-achieving individuals struggling with consistency and emotional exhaustion

RECBT Goal

Our goal is not to “fix” ADHD, but to help individuals work with their nervous system rather than against it—building clarity, emotional balance, self-acceptance, and effective action.

For information, assessment, or therapy services:
contact the Hellenic Institute for RECBT.

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