A later-in-life ADHD diagnosis often brings a mix of emotions and questions that many clients are unprepared for. To help clients better understand their experiences, the book “Extra Focus: The Quick Start Guide to Adult ADHD” written by Jesse J. Anderson can help offer clarity on diagnosis, validation, and practical tools for navigating ADHD. This easy-to-read book was specifically designed to provide short chapters that introduce various topics related to the diagnosis. Throughout the book, Anderson focuses on helping readers understand their symptoms while providing practical evidence-based frameworks tailored for the ADHD brain. Anderson’s goal is to help the reader build strong habits and routines for managing energy levels, emotions, memory, time, and motivation. Moreover, Anderson also provides reflections on his own struggle and reaction to the diagnosis, including feelings of imposter syndrome and rejection sensitivity; allowing space to validate possible difficulties and emotions associated with the diagnosis.

Anderson’s book is overall an affordable, quick, and empowering tool for those who are taking the first steps in their ADHD journey. Whether this be clients who are curious about a possible diagnosis, clients who have recently been diagnosed, or clients who are wanting to learn ADHD tailored coping tools. Counselors may also use this book as a collaborative tool during sessions to discuss client’s reactions, reflection, and application of the strategies provided by Anderson.

Overall, this book helps foster understanding, reduces stigma about ADHD, and encourages clients to engage in skills that can help them feel empowered.