Inside the Mind: How Dr. James Snyder Helps Kids Overcome Anxiety and ADHD

Navigating the complex intersection of ADHD and anxiety in children requires more than just clinical expertise; it requires a deep understanding of how a child’s brain processes the world. Dr. James Snyder, a licensed psychologist at the Boys Town Center for Behavioral Health, has dedicated his career to decoding these cognitive patterns to help families find peace and productivity.

The Overlap: Understanding the Dual Challenge

When ADHD and anxiety coexist, they often create a “feedback loop.” ADHD can cause a child to miss social cues or struggle with schoolwork, which leads to embarrassment and performance anxiety. Conversely, chronic anxiety can mimic ADHD symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating or restlessness. Dr. Snyder emphasizes that the first step in treatment is identifying these cognitive weaknesses. By understanding whether a child is struggling with executive function or an overactive “fear center,” clinicians can tailor interventions that address the root cause rather than just the behavior.

Strategies for Rewiring the Response

Dr. Snyder’s approach often integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a gold-standard treatment for emotional regulation. This method helps children identify “glitchy” thoughts—the irrational fears that spark anxiety—and replace them with reality-based logic. For ADHD management, the focus shifts to structural support. Dr. Snyder advocates for:

• Predictable Routines: Reducing the “mental load” on a child by creating clear, visual schedules.
• Skill Building: Teaching children how to break large tasks into “micro-goals” to prevent the overwhelm that triggers anxious avoidance.
• Emotional Resilience: Using tools like mindfulness to help kids stay grounded when their thoughts begin to race.

The Power of Play and Relatability

A unique aspect of Dr. Snyder’s contribution to the field is his ability to speak a child’s language. This is perhaps best exemplified in his https://www.jamesbsnydermd.com/ book, Jimmy Racecar, which addresses ADHD and self-esteem. By using the metaphor of a high-speed car with “bicycle brakes,” he helps children understand their ADHD without the weight of a clinical “disorder” label. This narrative approach reduces the stigma and shame that often fuels childhood anxiety.

Collaborative Care: The Role of the Family

Dr. Snyder maintains that the most effective therapy happens outside the office. Parent-focused interventions are a cornerstone of his philosophy. When parents learn to distinguish between a child’s “can’t” (a cognitive deficit) and “won’t” (a behavioral choice), the home environment shifts from a place of conflict to one of support.

Through evidence-based practice and a compassionate understanding of the young mind, Dr. Snyder helps children transform their “busy brains” from a source of stress into a powerful engine for success.

Are you looking for specific behavioral exercises to try at home, or would you like more information on Dr. Snyder’s published resources?