Couples Therapy for ADHD: From Frustration to Understanding

Written By Rachel Pfeiffer

When ADHD is in the room, many couples get stuck in cycles of frustration: one partner feels forgotten or unseen, the other feels criticised or inadequate. It can feel like you're living in two different worlds.

At our North Sydney practice, we support couples to understand ADHD not as a personal flaw, but as a dynamic that affects how love is expressed, heard, and felt.

ADHD Dynamics in Relationships

  • One partner taking on the "manager" role

  • Miscommunications about tasks, timelines, and emotional needs

  • Emotional shutdowns or reactive outbursts

  • Cycles of shame, blame, and resentment

How Therapy Supports Couples

  • Creating a shared language around ADHD

  • Addressing the emotional weight both partners carry

  • Rebalancing roles and restoring connection

  • Developing compassionate accountability instead of punishment

North Sydney Couples Therapy for ADHD

We help couples move from reactivity to repair—so you can feel more like teammates again.

Book a session
Online and in-person support available for couples navigating ADHD together.

Rachel Pfeiffer https://www.theembodiedmind.com.au
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Late Diagnosis ADHD: Grieving the Years You Didn’t Know