Refer a Patient
Portal Login

How Parents, Partners, and Loved Ones Can Help Someone With ADHD Get the Support They Deserve

By /

Too often, people with ADHD struggle silently — not because they don’t care, but because they’ve grown used to being misunderstood. As a parent, partner, or loved one, you can play a vital role in helping them take the first step toward life-changing support.

At PECGNA, we encourage families to work together to help someone you care about:

  • Seek a proper psychological evaluation
  • Understand their strengths and challenges
  • Apply for legal accommodations that can help them succeed in school, work, or testing

Why Support Matters

Many people fear being judged, labeled, or dismissed. But hearing encouragement from someone they trust can change everything.

“I see how hard you’re trying. Maybe an ADHD evaluation could help us find the right tools to support you.”

This simple shift — from blame to support — can make the difference between silent suffering and thriving with proper resources.

Supportive Steps You Can Take:

  • Help them schedule an ADHD evaluation with PECGNA
  • Offer to attend the telehealth session for support (with their permission)
  • Help them gather school/work documents if needed
  • Reassure them that accommodations are a legal right — not a crutch

Examples of Real Accommodations You Can Help Them Access

  • Extra time on exams like the MCAT, LSAT, GRE, or board certifications
  • 504 Plans or IEPs for school-aged children and college students
  • Workplace ADA accommodations, including remote flexibility or extended deadlines

With your support and PECGNA’s guidance, your loved one can:

  • Unlock their full potential
  • Build confidence and reduce shame
  • Finally feel seen, heard, and understood

🔗 Help Them Get Evaluated →
📧 clinic@pecgna.com

Originally published by Dr. irada Wattanavitukul on PECNA.com in 2023. Republished here to preserve the integrity of original authorship.

Scroll to Top
FOUNDER

Dr. Irada Wattanavitukul, Ph.D., LPC., LMHC

Licensed mental health professional with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

Dr. Irada received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology (Los Angeles) and is a highly respected licensed mental health professional with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with specialized training in trauma-informed care, neurodevelopmental assessments, and immigration evaluations. She is deeply committed to supporting individuals and families impacted by trauma, abuse, and developmental challenges, offering evaluations and guidance tailored to their unique needs.

Dr. Irada works extensively with survivors of violence, victims of crime, and individuals with developmental disabilities, ensuring they receive the support and resources they need to thrive. Her compassionate approach helps people navigate the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany these experiences. Additionally, she plays a critical role in helping families stay together by assisting those going through the immigration process. She understands the emotional toll of separation and provides evaluations and support that empower families to advocate for the protections and accommodations they deserve.

In addition to her work with trauma and immigration, Dr. Irada has completed specialized training in Psychological Evaluation for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) through the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). As a member of ASRM and its Mental Health Professionals Group (MHPG), she supports individuals and families on their family-building journeys. Her evaluations help identify emotional needs and provide guidance to ensure the well-being of all involved.

Dr. Irada’s expertise and dedication have earned her national recognition. She holds an EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) status, a prestigious acknowledgment of her significant contributions to mental health in the United States. Her work with high-need populations—such as trauma survivors and individuals with developmental challenges—has had a meaningful impact, helping many achieve healing and personal growth.

By combining her expertise in forensic psychology, trauma-informed care, neurodevelopmental assessments, and family support, Dr. Irada has become a key figure in her field. Her compassionate and thorough approach not only benefits individuals and families but also strengthens communities by fostering resilience and well-being.