Is It ADHD or Just Life? What a Psychologist in Ventura Wants You to Know
psychologist in Ventura providing clarification on ADHD.
You forget your keys, scroll Instagram for 45 minutes when you meant to check one email, and leave your coffee in the microwave (again). Is it ADHD... or just life? As a psychologist in Ventura, I hear this question all the time. It’s a valid one, and the answer isn’t always straightforward.
In this blog, we’ll break down what ADHD actually is (and isn’t), what signs to look for, and how to tell when it’s time to explore testing or treatment. Because understanding your brain is never a bad idea whether the answer is ADHD or just a full, distracted life.
What ADHD, and What It’s Not
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects executive functioning, the brain’s ability to plan, prioritize, regulate impulses, manage time, and follow through.
It’s not just about being “hyper” or having trouble paying attention. In fact, many people with ADHD can hyperfocus on things they love and still struggle to pay bills, stay organized, or complete daily tasks. ADHD is more about inconsistency than lack of intelligence or motivation.
Common Signs of Adult ADHD
If you’re wondering whether you might have ADHD, here are some signs that go beyond the stereotypes:
You feel mentally busy all the time but often forget important things
You struggle to follow multi-step directions or finish what you start
Your desk, calendar, or home feels perpetually disorganized
You procrastinate — and then work in stressful sprints
You experience intense emotional reactions or sensitivity to rejection
Time feels slippery (you’re always running late or losing hours to distractions)
Sound familiar? Many of these symptoms are easy to dismiss as “just life” especially in a culture that glorifies busyness and overwhelm. But when these patterns consistently impact your relationships, work, or well-being, it may be time to look deeper.
How ADHD Differs From Everyday Distraction
Let’s be real: we all have scattered days, especially in a world full of pings, alerts, and endless to-do lists. The difference with ADHD is persistence and impact.
In clinical settings, ADHD is diagnosed when symptoms:
Show up in multiple areas of life (school, work, relationships)
Are present since childhood (though they may have evolved over time)
Cause significant functional impairment
It’s not about having one off week — it’s about consistent patterns that make everyday functioning harder than it needs to be.
Why ADHD Often Gets Missed, Especially in Women
As a psychologist in Ventura I’ve seen firsthand how ADHD often flies under the radar especially for women, people of color, and high-achievers.
Many adults who are eventually diagnosed with ADHD spent years being told they were “lazy,” “messy,” “emotional,” or “not living up to potential.” They internalize shame and develop incredible coping strategies that mask the underlying struggle until burnout hits.
That’s why testing can be so powerful. It’s not about labeling, it’s about finally understanding your brain and your needs.
What ADHD Testing Looks Like
If you decide to work with a psychologist in Ventura to explore ADHD, here’s what you can expect:
Clinical interview to explore your history and current struggles
Standardized rating scales completed by you (and sometimes others who know you well)
Cognitive and attention testing to assess memory, focus, processing speed, and executive functioning
Feedback session to explain results and talk about next steps
You’ll walk away with a clear picture of what’s going on whether that includes an ADHD diagnosis or not
What If It’s Not ADHD?
Great question. That’s actually one of the most valuable parts of an evaluation, ruling things out.
Sometimes anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, trauma, or even being in a chronically overstimulating environment can mimic ADHD symptoms.
If the evaluation shows that something else is going on, we can explore support that fits your actual needs. No guessing. Just clarity.
Support Beyond a Diagnosis
Whether or not you’re diagnosed with ADHD, therapy can help you:
Build routines and systems that work with your brain
Untangle shame or self-blame that’s built up over time
Strengthen emotional regulation and self-trust
Clarify what matters to you and how to take aligned action
In my practice as a licensed psychologist in Ventura, I integrate ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to help clients navigate the emotional side of ADHD and take meaningful steps forward — not just cope, but thrive.
You Don’t Have to Keep Wondering
If your brain feels like a browser with 47 tabs open and you’re tired of guessing, you deserve answers.
Let’s figure it out together.
Schedule your free consult here to explore whether ADHD testing might be right for you.
FAQs
1. Do you test adults for ADHD?
Yes — I provide comprehensive ADHD evaluations for teens and adults.
2. What’s the difference between being forgetful and having ADHD?
Occasional forgetfulness is normal. ADHD symptoms are persistent, noticeable across settings, and impact functioning.
3. Can you have ADHD and still do well in school or work?
Absolutely. Many high-achieving adults with ADHD have developed strong coping strategies, often at a cost to mental health.
4. What happens if I don’t meet the criteria for ADHD?
We’ll still explore what is going on and recommend support that fits your needs, whether it’s therapy, lifestyle changes, or something else.
5. What kind of therapy helps with ADHD?
ACT, CBT, coaching, and executive functioning strategies can all be helpful. I offer ACT therapy with a focus on values-based action and reducing shame.
6. Will a diagnosis go on my permanent record?
No. You control who sees your evaluation results.
7. Can I use testing results for work or academic accommodations?
Yes. If appropriate, the final report includes recommendations for accommodations and documentation.
8. How do I get started with ADHD testing in Ventura?
Start with a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if testing is the right next step for you.
Author’s Bio
Psychologist in Ventura providing ADHD testing and therapy for adults and teens.
Dr. Dáša, Jendrusakova, PsyD, is a licensed clinical and school psychologist in Ventura, CA, specializing in ADHD testing, psychoeducational evaluations, ACT therapy, and immigration evaluations. With a warm, affirming approach, she helps teens and adults understand how their minds work and access the tools they need to thrive. Learn more on her About page.
