Traditional Workshop 4 - CBT for ADHD in Adults - Basics and Beyond

Adult ADHD is one of the most common and impairing psychiatric conditions. While medications help reduce symptoms, typically the condition persists despite pharmacotherapy, and compensatory skills training can optimize symptom reduction and functioning. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as an empirically supported intervention, via multiple randomized controlled trials. One of the specific treatment protocols was developed by the workshop leader, Steven Safren and colleagues, with one efficacy study published in JAMA. Treatment manuals are available in multiple languages across the globe. This 3-hour workshop will provide participants with training in delivering CBT for adult ADHD based on the protocol developed and tested by Dr. Steven Safren and colleagues. The session will begin with an overview of the cognitive behavioral framework, and briefly discuss the research evidence supporting CBT for adult ADHD, highlighting key findings from clinical trials. Participants will then learn the structure and components of the treatment protocol, including strategies for organization and planning, time management, problem-solving, coping with distractibility, and adaptive thinking. While some of these skills are typical CBT strategies, the nuances for working specifically with adult ADHD will be emphasized. To maximize skill acquisition, the workshop will incorporate video demonstrations of mock therapy sessions and structured role-play exercises, allowing attendees experience core techniques in a supportive environment. Attendees will leave with actionable tools and resources to implement with their clients.