The Hyperactivity, Attention and Learning Problems (HALP) Clinic specializes in identifying and treating Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other disruptive behavior problems in children ranging from preschool to college age. We also evaluate learning and emotional problems that often accompany these conditions. Typical problems seen in children referred to the HALP Clinic include: Problems at school (not working up to potential, difficulty completing and turning in assignments or trouble following rules and directions consistently), not completing homework and chores regularly and independently, defiant behavior, disorganized and inattentive behavior, low self-esteem or problems making or keeping good quality friendships.
HALP offers a complete diagnostic workup that covers major problems and disorders that can affect a child's ability to do well at school or home. A team of mental health professionals meets for a full day with the family to gather all the information needed for the evaluation, including medical screening, diagnostic interviewing, psychological and neuropsychological testing and extensive information about the child's functioning at home and in the classroom. Because information from the teacher is critical, we recommend scheduling diagnostic evaluations during the school year.
This course teaches parents techniques to help their children with behavior, learning or emotional problems. The approach combines traditional parent training with specialized therapeutic skills training. We often teach parent and child courses at the same time.
This fun course teaches children skills for making and keeping friends, handling disappointments and getting along better with family and friends. The course also includes strategies to help children get more organized and take responsibility for daily tasks, such as getting ready for the day, being on time, managing homework assignments and establishing good habits and routines. The parents attend their own course at the same time to learn how to support their children's use of these skills at home.
HALP clinicians can visit a child's school if needed for classroom observation, teacher training, Individualized Education Plan staffing or designing a behavioral program with the child's teacher to improve academic productivity. We can provide technical advice on educational accommodations when these are appropriate under IDEA or Section 504. We frequently set up daily school-home report cards as a means of teaming up parents and teachers to support a student's learning and behavior.
The HALP clinic's philosophy on medication is to provide as many facts to the parents as possible, and then allow the family to decide what's best for their child. We provide information about what medications do and don't do, including all potential benefits and risks. For families who want to try medication, we refer to our medication assessment clinics where children's response to medication can be carefully evaluated.
Please call the number below for information about making an appointment.
Hyperactivity, Attention and Learning Problems
401 Parnassus Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94143
Phone: (415) 476-7156
Fax: (415) 476-7163
Hours: Tuesday and Thursday
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Last updated December 22, 2009
