Naturopathic Approach to ADHD in Children

Presented by Julie brush, ND

Biography:

Dr. Julie Brush earned her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine from National University of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon in 2005. She served in a primary care setting with a focus on mental health for more than 15 years in clinical private practices in Oregon and Hawaii. She recently served as the Medical Director of The Exclusive in Hawaii, a holistic addiction and eating disorder residential treatment center.

Currently, she is working at Amen Clinic in Los Angeles, one of six NDs working in Amen Clinics across the US. There, she utilizes brain SPECT imaging, employing a functional medicine approach. At Amen Clinic she treats patients with psychiatric issues, memory problems and dementia, ADHD, traumatic brain injury, addictions, PTSD and all things related to brain health.

Dr. Brush is licensed in Oregon, California, Washington, Hawaii, Utah and Arizona and is an active member of the Hawaii and California Associations of Naturopathic Physicians and the Psychiatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians and is certified in IV Therapy.

Overview

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD/ADD) is a common complaint seen in naturopathic family practice, and many parents would like to avoid medication. At the same time, untreated ADHD may lead to childhood school performance deficits, interpersonal challenges and self-esteem issues that pave the way to future problems for young people, with repercussions that extend into adulthood. 

This presentation discusses the symptoms and diagnosis of ADD and ADHD, how to make a clinical evaluation when attention issues are reported, and options that are available for treatment. We will explore the 7 types of ADHD and how the presentation and treatment of these types differ. In addition, possible contributions to root causes of ADHD will be explored. Treatment options are presented, ranging from nutrition, supplements, lifestyle and medication.