CBT with ADHD: intervention across the ages from children to adults

1 APRIL 2026

Julie Artley, Counsellor for Tier 3 and 4 Weight Management, recently completed a charity‑funded training programme focused on CBT Plus with ADHD. This specialist training explored how neurodiversity, particularly ADHD, can influence a person’s ability to engage with weight‑loss strategies and lifestyle change.

For the past 10 years, Julie has supported patients with a BMI of 35+ through weight management therapy, including those preparing for or recovering from bariatric surgery. Over time, she recognised a group of patients who consistently struggled more with traditional strategies. Many of these individuals were neurodiverse, and the challenges they faced often aligned with traits commonly associated with ADHD.

Julie explained that patients with ADHD often process information differently, making some standard goals and strategies harder to apply. Motivation can fluctuate, and techniques that support non‑neurodivergent patients may not have the same effect.

She shared insights from her work:

“Patients with ADHD often describe motivations that differ from those of non‑neurodivergent patients. Small, practical adjustments can make a significant difference to everyday habits. For example, something as simple as using a water bottle with a straw, or keeping several bottles within reach, can remove barriers and make it easier to drink regularly without having to consciously think about it.

“Fatigue also plays a major role in food choices. Many patients spend the day masking their symptoms and return home mentally and physically exhausted. In this state, they are more likely to reach for quick, high‑dopamine foods rather than spend time and energy preparing a balanced meal.”

Julie often discusses the value of batch cooking or preparing easy snacks on days when patients have more energy, helping to reduce pressure later in the week.

“Decision fatigue further compounds these challenges. People make around 200 food‑related decisions each day, and when the brain is already tired, adding more choices can lead to unnecessary stress and less healthy outcomes.”

Julie described the training as a turning point in her practice.

“The information I learnt on the course helped to provide me with more confidence in my advising of patients, as well as reaffirm my thought process and how to best help them.”

By understanding these neurodiverse experiences more deeply, Julie can now offer tailored, compassionate and realistic strategies to support patients from childhood through to adulthood. This enhanced approach is helping individuals with ADHD achieve healthier habits and more sustainable weight loss journeys.