Managing attention can be such a struggle for adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But it doesn’t have to be! In this training, you’ll learn how mindfulness is an evidence-based intervention for adults struggling with this disorder. We’ll explore the basics of mindfulness and how to best implement it in treatment with this specific population. We will be practicing various strategies that you can share with clients, so come prepared to experience for yourself the benefits of mindfulness for ADHD!
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Identify the basic components of mindfulness
- Identify the challenges adults with ADHD face with managing their attention
- Discuss the specific ways in which mindfulness can best be used with adult clients with ADHD
- Practice at least five interventions related to mindfulness and ADHD
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Understanding ADHD in Adults
- Overview of the three DSM-5 ADHD presentations: Inattentive, Hyperactive-Impulsive, Combined
- Diagnostic criteria for adult ADHD including symptom duration, early onset, and functional impairment
- Key symptoms: distractibility, impulsivity, disorganization, restlessness, difficulty sustaining attention
- Emotional and social consequences of undiagnosed or untreated ADHD in adults
Objective #2: Foundations of Mindfulness
- Definition and core principles of mindfulness:
- Paying attention on purpose
- Being present in the moment
- Practicing non-judgmental awareness
- Mindfulness as a trainable skill for emotional and cognitive regulation
Objective #3: Applying Mindfulness with Adults with ADHD
- Strengthening meta-awareness to improve attention control
- Building self-monitoring and emotional regulation skills
- Enhancing non-reactivity and present-moment awareness
- Supporting acceptance and self-compassion to reduce reactivity and impulsivity
Understanding the neurological benefits: prefrontal cortex development and dopamine increase
Objective #4: Evidence Supporting Mindfulness for ADHD
- Research highlights, including UCLA’s MAPs for ADHD study
- Positive outcomes: improved focus, reduced anxiety and depression, enhanced well-being
- Recommendations for structured programs that include social support, accountability, and consistency
Objective #5: Mindfulness-Based Interventions and Practices
- Exercise 1: One-minute sensory observation (Beginner’s Mind)
- Exercise 2: Breath-focused meditation with and without labeling distractions
- Exercise 3: Guided meditation segment
- Exercise 4: STOP Practice (Stop, Take a breath, Observe, Proceed)
- Exercise 5: Loving-Kindness Meditation
- Exercise 6: Savoring the senses – slowing down and enhancing conscious experience
- Discussion on mindfulness apps vs structured programs: strengths and challenges for ADHD
Objective #6: Complementary Practices
- Role of yoga and movement-based mindfulness
- Incorporating mindfulness into everyday activities and routines
- Leveraging sensory experiences to ground and anchor attention
Resources for Continued Practice
- Books, video resources and online channels to support ongoing learning
Social workers completing this course receive 1.5 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 1.5 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dreya Blume, LCSW
Recorded Date: October 15, 2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 1.5hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com