Meet Dr. Serena Hobson

Helping young adults with ADHD turn overwhelm into structure that fits real life

Working hard but still behind?

If you’ve ever felt like you work twice as hard just to keep up, you’re not alone. Many of the bright, motivated people I work with have tried every planner and productivity hack and still feel behind. Most of us were simply never taught systems that work with an ADHD brain.

My approach

As an occupational therapist, I focus on how you function day to day. We will build practical routines that help you do the things you want to, need to, and have to do at school, at work, and at home. My training in lifestyle medicine means we also strengthen the foundations that make focus possible: sleep, movement, stress management, and connection. Together we can:

  • Improve study skills, focus, task initiation, and organization

  • Strengthen time management, prioritization, and planning abilities

  • Challenge perfectionism, procrastination, and burnout

  • Build balance between academics, social life, and self-care

  • Develop healthy physical activity, sleep, and eating routines

  • Learn stress management and coping strategies

  • Enhance household routines

  • Improve life transitions (e.g. college, jobs, parenthood)

  • Address challenges in social situations and relationships

  • Create sustainable routines for overall well-being and success

My background

I earned my bachelor’s in psychology from UCLA and my master’s and doctorate in occupational therapy from USC. I went on to serve as an assistant professor and clinical faculty member, working in the University of Southern California’s (USC) student health center to help college students build simple systems for academic success and well-being. Later, as Wellness Director for grades 7–12 at a college-prep school, Sierra Canyon School, I led programs that supported students’ physical, mental, and emotional health. I founded Lifestyle Forward to bring greater support to young adults across California.

What keeps me grounded

When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me on a nature walk listening to a self-help book, spending time with my twin nieces, or cheering at a sporting event. To recharge, I put on Insight Timer, or a lofi or R&B playlist.

Training and credentials

  • Doctor of Occupational Therapy, USC · BA in Psychology, UCLA

  • Former OT clinical faculty and assistant professor at USC's student health center

  • Former Wellness Director for grades 7–12 at Sierra Canyon School, a Los Angeles college-prep school

  • Diplomate, American College of Lifestyle Medicine

  • Certifications in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), mindfulness-based stress reduction, yoga, and gardening

Ready to move forward?

Let’s talk about what’s getting in your way. Working hard but still behind? A free 15-minute consult is the first step.