“ADHD is like having a Ferrari brain with bicycle brakes.” First described in the literature in 1865, ADHD is one of the most common child and adolescent behavior disorders and its diagnosis and treatment — often its very existence — is often viewed as controversial. However, ADHD is a very real brain disorder of self-regulation due to hypoactivity of key communication circuitry and is often associated with hypodensity of the prefrontal region. The good news is, if accurately diagnosed and treated, ADHD can be managed effectively at all ages.

This workshop focuses on accurate diagnosis of ADHD and its corollary symptoms with an emphasis on psychosocial and educational evidence-based interventions. The BASC-3 model of diagnosis and links to intervention is emphasized to enhance accuracy of diagnosis and getting the right interventions.

At the completion of this workshop, attendees will:

1. Understand current diagnostic criteria for ADHD
2. Understand differential diagnosis of ADHD among other comorbid disorders and mimics
3. Know how to apply the BASC-3 comprehensive model of diagnosis
4. Know which interventions for ADHD have scientific support in the literature
5. Be able to link diagnostic results to psychosocial and educational interventions that are individualized to the particular child’s or adolescent’s profile of behavior and learning problems