I am a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist (#21787), and Certified Addiction Specialist (#C-4020) with a private practice in Soquel, California. I am the author of When Too Much Isn’t Enough, Ending the Destructive Cycle of AD/HD and Addictive Behavior (2005) Piñon Press, and The Link Between ADD & Addiction, Getting the Help You Deserve, (1997). I have also been published in numerous articles, and contributed chapters on AD/HD and co-occurring addictions in books focusing on criminology, and women with AD/HD.

I have a bachelors degree in psychology from the University of California at Santa Cruz, a Master degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from the American Academy of Family Studies. I am also a Certified Addiction Specialist, and member of the American Academy of Health Care Providers in the Addictive Disorders.

I began my career counseling heroin addicts at the Santa Clara County Methadone Detox Program from 1975-1977. Them moved on to work with mental ill inpatients in psychiatric hospitals as a Licensed Psychiatric Technician for eight years. I decided to return to the addition field in 1983. Developing the Youth Alcohol Awareness Program, the Minor Driving Under the Influence Program, and the first Juvenile Offenders Diversion Program for Santa Cruz County in California. I worked extensively with adolescents and adults whose substance abuse has contributed to their involvement with the law and incarceration. I also consult with individuals, probation officers, and attorneys to create alternative sentencing to treatment programs for those whose crimes were influenced by ADHD and/or co-occurring addiction.

I have devoted the last 15 year of my 35 year career in mental health to treating people with ADHD with co-occurring addictions, eating disorders and behavioral addictions. I am inspired and motivated by my personal and professional passion to support others whose lives have also been affected by ADHD and/or addiction. I have expertise working with people suffering from mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and grief. I also work with adults and adolescent on the autistic spectrum.

I believe that educating others about ADHD and addition through writing, international speaking and trainings is a huge step towards smashing stigmas, reducing shame, and helping people get the treatment they deserve. I immensely enjoy balancing my private practice, national and international speaking engagements, and consultations.

I practice the suggestions I make to those who have ADHD. I keeping brain and body stimulated by playing Ping-Pong, hiking, skiing and traveling to exotic parts of the world. As I explore the world around me, I appreciate capturing images of my experiences through photography. You will see my work throughout this website. Enjoy.

“Life is short, enjoy the ride.” – Wendy Richardson