Understanding ADHD and Occupational Therapy Approaches for working with ADHD Clients

Training Course for Occupational Therapists, Facilitated by Clinical Specialist Susan Madigan

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) ADHD is a form of neurodivergence that affects attention regulation, focus, and executive functioning. It can also bring strengths such as creativity and innovative thinking, while some individuals may find organisation and deadlines more challenging. ADHD Adults experience increased mental and physical health conditions compared to those without ADHD. ADHD adults often struggle to find appropriate support to make changes and improve their quality of life

This course aims to support Occupational Therapists to understand ADHD and feel more confident working with ADHDers in any setting.  

The course will be delivered online and consists of three workshops, each lasting 2.5 hours. Sessions will include PowerPoint presentation, discussion, and guided reflection. Participants will also receive a comprehensive course manual containing preparatory materials for each session. Videos will be available for 1 month after each session, to catch up if needed.

Who is this course for?

This course is for Occupational Therapists  who may be working in any adult setting, who want to learn more about supporting ADHD service users. 

Learning Outcomes

Participants will gain knowledge and understanding of:

• The frequency, traits, strengths and challenges for ADHD adults

• Theories about how ADHD brains work as well as gender and hormone aspects

• How ADHD manifests for different people

• Occupational Therapy Approaches and strategies for sensory, executive functioning, emotional regulation and social goals

• Relevant Occupational Therapy and ADHD Resources

Course Schedule

Session 1: 11th February, 10-12.30

Topics Covered:

• Background – how common is ADHD, what are the subtypes, and co-occurrences

• What are the underlying cognitive mechanisms of ADHD

• Strengths and challenges of ADHDers

Session 2: 18th February, 10-12.30

Topics Covered:

• Neuroaffirmative approach

• Understanding sensory regulation and strategies for ADHDers

• Executive functioning differences and strategies

Session 3: 25th February, 10-12.30

Topics Covered:

• Enhancing Social engagement 

• Managing Regulation on an ongoing basis

• Resources, wrap up and Q&A

Booking

Course fee is €250 and is delivered online.

Please visit https://www.susanmadigan.ie/newtrain to sign up for the course

Course Facilitator

Susan is a Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist, specialising in the area of Autism and ADHD. In her roles in Trinity College, Dublin City University, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, and ADHD Doc, she has been supporting neurodivergent young people and adults to understand themselves and thrive. She has provided training to small and large companies, HSE teams, and semi-state groups all over Ireland 

Susan is neurodivergent and passionate about collaborating with health  professionals and settings to support diversity and inclusion and make the environment more neurodivergent friendly