This 3-hour course reviews the current areas of research and theories of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children and adults including neurology, diagnosis, genetics, co-morbidity, and treatment. The history of ADHD, common misconceptions, and misdiagnosis will be discussed.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Identify the core symptoms, diagnostic criteria, and developmental considerations associated with ADHD across the lifespan.
- Apply a structured, six-step treatment model for ADHD that includes psychoeducation, coping strategies, behavioral interventions, and medication management.
- Assess and address co-occurring conditions commonly present with ADHD, such as anxiety, depression, and executive functioning challenges.
- Implement behavior charts, feedback systems, and accommodations effectively in therapeutic and educational settings.
- Evaluate the benefits and risks of pharmacotherapy, neurofeedback, and complementary interventions within evidence-based ADHD treatment plans.
Syllabus:
Foundations of ADHD and Symptom Presentation
- Definition and subtypes of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and combined
- Developmental considerations in diagnosis
- Diagnostic criteria, clinical cutoff points, and symptom persistence
- Differences in symptom presentation across age and gender
- Common misconceptions and clarifications
Objective #1: Diagnosis and Assessment Considerations
- The role of developmental vs. chronological age in diagnosis
- Use of rating scales, interviews, and behavior observations
- Identifying ADHD in multiple settings (school, home, work)
- Comorbidities: anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, and defiance disorders
- Gender differences in under diagnosis and symptom expression
Objective #2: Treatment Planning and Post-Assessment Steps
- Six treatment steps: psychoeducation, coping skills, behavioral management, pharmacotherapy, co-occurring symptom treatment, accommodations
- Addressing treatment adherence and common roadblocks
- Role of caregiver involvement and collaboration in treatment planning
- Setting realistic treatment goals and expectations
Objective #3: Psychoeducation and Coping Strategies
- Teaching clients and families about ADHD and its impact
- Addressing stigma and unrealistic expectations (“just sit still” fallacy)
- Exploring individual strengths and treatment options
- Practicing coping skills: social supports, guided imagery, breathing, creative outlets
- Tailoring interventions to client’s needs and emotional patterns
Objective #4: Behavioral Management Techniques
- Use of behavior charts, feedback loops, and reinforcement strategies
- Parent training and behavior modeling
- Creating replacement behaviors and reducing maladaptive patterns
- Structuring effective home and classroom environments
Objective #5: Pharmacotherapy and Medication Management
- Overview of stimulant and non-stimulant medications
- Brain-based rationale for pharmacologic treatment
- Risks and benefits, including functional connectivity improvements
- Monitoring medication effectiveness with scales and ongoing evaluation
- Addressing concerns related to anxiety, addiction risk, and comorbid conditions
Objective #6: Addressing Co-Occurring Symptoms
- Interventions for emotional regulation and self-confidence
- Skills training in organization, time management, and social interaction
- Managing comorbid anxiety and depressive symptoms
- Handling conduct-related challenges and family dynamics
Objective #7: Accommodations and Educational Supports
- Overview of 504 plans and academic modifications
- Common accommodations: seating arrangements, test adjustments, homework modifications
- Collaborating with schools and educators
- Ensuring appropriate implementation and monitoring
Objective #8: Additional and Complementary Interventions
- Role of neurofeedback and preliminary research findings
- Incorporating mindfulness, physical activity, arts, and life skills
- Addressing screen time and electronic usage
- Evaluating the role of non-traditional treatments (e.g., essential oils, restrictive diets)
Objective #9: Case Study and Clinical Application
- Review of an adult case study exploring symptom impact and treatment pathways
- Identifying treatment priorities and comorbidity challenges
- Developing a collaborative and individualized plan of care
- Discussing barriers to treatment and strategies for long-term support
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Leo DeBroeck, MS, LMHC, CMHS, MHP, CBT+
Recording Date: 6/22/2024
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 3hrs 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.
System Requirements: Firefox, Chrome, Brave, Safari, Edge on any modern operating system (Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS). A desktop browser is recommended. We do not provide support resources for issues encountered using a mobile device.
Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com
Course Instructor: Leo DeBroeck is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Child Mental Health Specialist in Washington State. He has worked in several different levels of care for mental health treatment including long-term inpatient care, WISe wraparound intensive services, school-based therapy services, and outpatient clinical settings.