Adult AD/HD Online Text-based Home Course (5 CE)

Researchers and clinicians now recognize that Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) is a persistent neurodevelopmental disorder that affects adults (approximately 4%) who may or may not have been diagnosed with AD/HD as children. A majority of adult AD/HD cases are unrecognized and untreated because symptoms are more subtle and variable in adults, and many people, including health care professionals, conceptualize AD/HD as solely a childhood disorder. Changes reflected in DSM-5 address the symptom picture in adults and identify the presenting problems that may lead to a diagnosis of adult AD/HD. In this presentation, students will learn about the particular symptom presentation of adult AD/HD, myths and misconceptions about adult AD/HD, common co-occurring syndromes, and common treatment modalities. Without identification and proper treatment, adult AD/HD may have serious consequences, including academic and occupational failure, marital discord, psychiatric co-morbidities, substance abuse, and criminal and high-risk behavior.

Author: Nancy Klein, M.A., LMFT

Target Audience: Introductory and Intermediate; LMFTs, Social Workers, LPCCs, Nurses, Substance Abuse Counselors, and other mental health clinicians.

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Define the main types, subtypes and symptoms of adult AD/HD and the developmental course that distinguishes adult from childhood AD/HD.
2. Identify the types of impairments (symptoms) and co-occurring syndromes that affect adults diagnosed with AD/HD.
3. List the important elements of an adult AD/HD assessment, diagnosis and treatment.
4. Describe the main treatment modalities, including therapy and medication.