34: Are We Doing This Right? Real Talk about ADHD Therapy

SHOW SUMMARY:

In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Mysogland, a licensed social worker and trauma specialist, joins us to explore the complex relationship between ADHD and trauma, how parents and clinicians can better support children through therapy, and the importance of family-centered approaches. Whether you're a parent, educator, or mental health professional, you'll gain practical insights into assessment, intervention, and fostering resilience.

Key topics covered:

• The overlap between trauma and ADHD: how trauma can mimic or influence ADHD symptoms
• When therapy is beneficial for children with ADHD: signs to look for
• How parents can find and select a good therapist: questions to ask and what to expect
• The role of parental involvement in therapy sessions and ongoing communication
• Building rapport with children: how and when to include parents
• Strategies for managing behavioral disclosures and explaining therapy to kids
• Approaches to addressing trauma, including EMDR: what it is and when it’s helpful
• Distinguishing trauma responses from neurodevelopmental traits
• How to support family dynamics and parenting approaches for kids with ADHD
• Reframing accommodations: understanding their natural role and destigmatizing support strategies
• Resources for clinicians and parents: recommended books, podcasts, and tools

SHOW NOTES:

• Make sure to follow us on social media (Instagram) @ADHDMomDocs you can send us a DM with a question or suggestions for future episodes! Or send us an email at HelloADHDMomDocs@gmail.com We'd love to hear from you!
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• Connect with our Guest:
  • Jennifer Mysogland’s instagram: @therapywithjen
  • Website: https://www.jennifermysogland.com/
  • What is EMDR Therapy: https://www.emdr.com/what-is-emdr/
  • Additional Resources for Further Learning: From Additude Magazine: ADHD and Trauma:Untangling Causes, Symptoms and Treatments https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-trauma-somatic-therapy/
  • Is it ADHD or Trauma from Child Mind Institute: https://childmind.org/article/is-it-adhd-or-trauma/
  • Our Guest's Recommendations: 
    • Dr Lisa Damour podcast and books: https://drlisadamour.com/
    • Robyn Gobbel Gobbel podcast: https://robyngobbel.com/
    • *The Explosive Child by Ross Greene (Chapters 1 and 2): https://amzn.to/4s5DJSf
    • *ADHD is Awesome book by Penn and Kim Holderness: https://amzn.to/4rmjwXh
    • Anything by Dr. Russell Barkley
    • *Diggory Doo Has ADHD: https://amzn.to/3N9xpM

This episode emphasizes that understanding your child’s unique needs, asking thoughtful questions, and fostering collaborative communication with professionals are key components in supporting children with ADHD and trauma. Remember—building a supportive environment and trusting relationships can make all the difference.

*Amazon affiliate links