Utilizing CBT and ACT Interventions to Address ADHD and Perfectionism in AdultsASSESSMENT AND THERAPY ASSOCIATES OF GRAND FORKS
Live, interactive via Zoom. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a "neurodevelopmental disorder defined by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning in or development" (APA, 2022). Perfectionism is defined as, "the tendency to demand of others or oneself an extremely high or even flawless level of performance, in excess of what is required by the situation" (APA, n.d.). People diagnosed with ADHD often endorse maladaptive cognitive distortions (Serine et al., 2020), with perfectionism being the most frequently endorsed pattern of cognitive distortion (Strohmeier et al., 2016). ADHD and perfectionism may affect those with ADHD combined presentation and women more frequently than other ADHD presentations and men, respectively (Muller & Piko, 2026). ADHD is positively corrlated with higher rates of self-criticism and reduced self-compassion (Beaton et al., 2020), thus leading to potentially maladaptive behavioral patterns, including maladaptive perfectionism (Muller & Piko, 2026). ADHD and perfectionism can uniquely impact one's psychological well-being, self-esteem, and identity (Farmer et al., 2026). Additionally ADHD and perfectionism are associated with higher rates of ego depletion and daily exhaustion, increasing risk for burnout (Muller & Piko, 2026). Research recommends treating ADHD and perfectionism by reframing cognitive distortions (Serine et al., 2020), increasing self-compassion (Beaton et al., 2020), and cultivating acceptance of ADHD diagnosis and imperfect behaviors (Farmer et al., 2026). This presentation will provide a summary of the literature regarding ADHD and perfectionism and will describe how to utilize CBT and ACT interventions to address ADHD and perfectionism.