Navigating ADHD in Your Relationship: Couples Therapy for NYC Partners
ADHD affects more than just the person with the diagnosis — it often impacts relationships in subtle but significant ways. For couples living in Brooklyn or Manhattan, navigating differences in attention, organization, and emotional regulation can feel exhausting, frustrating, or even isolating.
Many adults start by asking themselves whether they have ADHD or are just feeling overwhelmed. If you want to explore this question further, check out our guide: Do I Have ADHD or Am I Just Overwhelmed?, which covers individual therapy strategies for NYC professionals
At Groundwork Therapy, we work with couples of all genders and sexual orientations who are exploring how ADHD shapes their partnership. Therapy offers a safe, relational space to understand each other, reduce conflict, and strengthen connection.
Understanding ADHD in Relationships
When one partner has ADHD and the other does not, certain patterns can emerge:
The non-ADHD partner may feel frustrated by missed deadlines, forgotten tasks, or unpredictability.
The partner with ADHD may feel criticized, controlled, or constantly “on the defensive.”
Misunderstandings can build over time, creating resentment and emotional distance.
These dynamics are not about blame. They are often the natural result of different nervous systems interacting in high-stress environments — especially for NYC professionals juggling work, city life, and relationships.
ADHD, Gender, and Sexual Diversity in Relationships
Every relationship is unique, and ADHD may interact differently depending on partners’ identities and experiences. Couples we work with include:
Same-sex couples navigating ADHD in co-parenting or domestic responsibilities
Trans and non-binary individuals managing attention differences in relationships
Partners exploring neurodiversity alongside gender identity and sexual orientation
Groundwork Therapy is an LGBTQIA+ affirming practice. We focus on understanding your relationship in the context of your identities, communication styles, and life demands, rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all approach.
How Couples Therapy Can Help
Couples therapy with a Brooklyn therapist can provide:
Shared language around ADHD: Learn to describe behaviors and needs without blame.
Conflict reduction strategies: Build practical systems for chores, finances, and scheduling.
Emotional connection: Strengthen intimacy and understanding.
Support for partners with ADHD: Explore coping strategies while acknowledging strengths.
Support for neurodiverse partners: Validate experiences and identities across gender and sexuality.
Therapy is especially helpful for couples who are committed to their relationship but struggle to communicate or manage daily challenges effectively.
FAQ: ADHD in Couples Therapy
Can therapy help if only one partner has ADHD?
Yes. Therapy helps both partners understand ADHD patterns, improve communication, and reduce conflict.
Is therapy affirming for LGBTQIA+ couples?
Absolutely. Groundwork Therapy is LGBTQIA+ affirming, and we approach ADHD and relationship dynamics in the context of diverse gender and sexual identities.
Do I need a formal ADHD diagnosis for therapy?
No. Therapy can help explore ADHD traits, relationship impact, and coping strategies regardless of a formal diagnosis.
Can Manhattan couples work with Groundwork Therapy?
Yes. We are based in Brooklyn and see clients throughout Manhattan.
Getting Started with Couples Therapy at Groundwork Therapy
Taking the first step can feel daunting, but reaching out is simple:
Contact us: Complete our online contact form.
Schedule a consultation: We’ll match you with a therapist experienced in ADHD and LGBTQIA+ affirming couples work.
Start therapy: Sessions are designed to fit busy NYC schedules, including evenings and virtual appointments.
Groundwork Therapy offers a thoughtful, relational approach to help couples understand ADHD in the context of their unique identities and strengthen their partnership. Click the button below to get started at our practice.
