James C. Lazowski Medicine Professional Corporation, Kanata, ON

Since forming one of Canada's first adult psychiatry clinics targeting Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in 1992, the primary focus of our practice has been excellence in assessments and on-going care to adults struggling with impairment of their executive function. Often, in the course of our assessment or on-going care, another disorder which is causing significant impairment will be identified, which must receive priority in treatment. Mood disorders such as Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, or Dysthymia are found frequently. The problematic anxiety disorders in a group of ADHD adults will include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder and, less often, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. We find some people who have significant challenges in executive function because of a mood or anxiety disorder without necessarily having ADHD. Executive function can also be compromised by other disorders such as sleep disordered breathing (e.g. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome), traumatic brain injury, and substance abuse. Finally, ADHD in adults may co-exist with other disorders usually first diagnosed in childhood such as Asperger's Disorder, Tic Disorders, and Learning Disorders. Despite these many challenges understanding and treating ADHD can lead to the same successes for adults as it does for children and it is extremely gratifying to participate in people's progress.
Education of professionals working with adults with ADHD is the secondary focus of our practice. We have been pleased to provide training to psychiatrists, paediatricians, family physicians, pharmacists, nurse-practitioners and nurses in diverse aspects of assessment and treatment pertaining to ADHD and the co-morbid disorders drawing on our extensive clinical experience and in-depth knowledge of the literature. These presentations are invariably well received and a great source of professional satisfaction.