From Stigma to Strength
November 4, 2025
ADHD 2025 International Convention
By Carol S. Siege, PCC
Founder, Family Pathways Coaching, LLC
This past week I had the pleasure of joining a multitude of ADHD coaches, therapists, educators, and doctors, as well as individuals who have ADHD and/or care for people with ADHD, at the 2025 ADHD International Convention in Kansas City, MO. I left the three-day event with respect for those among us who process the world differently and a renewed commitment to supporting parents who are raising neurodivergent children.
As I listened to speakers, participated in workshops, and met creative, empathic practitioners and parents, I was both validated by experiences from my own family journey and introduced to new perspectives and avenues to support this community.
Consider:
- Emotional Regulation – When a person with ADHD is truly stuck -- that is, they can’t progress even if they know they want to improve their situation – caregivers must understand where that person is on their emotional ladder. If that person is overwhelmed, they are not in a position to solve a problem. It’s important to explore the emotion, offering time and space before considering solutions.
- Differentiating Between the Mind (Self) and ADHD Brain Wiring – If we think of our mind as separate from the way our brain is wired, we can work on taking charge of our ADHD. Success comes from partnership between the two, though. The mind leads while recognizing and respecting what the brain needs. Perhaps the brain needs a break to stay on task? Perhaps it needs more stimulation? If these needs aren’t met, the mind will be thrown off course.
- Listen! As a successful coach and also as a parent to neurodivergent children, I know the value of giving others space to think for themselves, to understand what they’re dealing with, and to uncover what they already know inside. For both clients and children, offering agency helps people grow and ultimately succeed.
Perhaps the most significant impression I am left with, though, is the feeling of camaraderie I saw among this group. The knowing laugh when a speaker admitted she left her speech at home. The tears a keynote speaker shed as she looked out to a sea of faces who understood her and her life’s work completely. The words of encouragement, empathy and connection among parents struggling to raise the children they love so dearly in an atmosphere of growth and resilience …and grace when they don’t always get it right.
If you are raising a child with ADHD, or any other neurodivergent condition, know there is support through international organizations with local chapters, books, podcasts, and practitioners who work to support both parent and child, those with ADHD and those caring for people with ADHD. It can be a hard road, and yet no one has to travel this road alone.
See below for ways you may find support along your own path.
Organizations:
- CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) – Improving the lives of people affected by ADHD. Look for local chapters across the U.S.
- ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association) -- Dedicated to helping adults with ADHD live better lives.
- ACO (ADHD Coaches Organization) -- Serving as a resource for ADHD coaches, for organization members, and for the public.
Books:
- Driven to Distractionby Dr. Edward Hallowell and Dr. John Ratey – A comprehensive overview of ADHD.
- The Explosive Child, by Dr. Ross Greene – Managing behavioral outbursts.
- Taking Charge of ADHD,by Dr. Russell Barkley -- Evidence-based strategies for parenting an ADHD child.
Podcasts:
- ADDitude Magazine webinars & podcasts -- Experts cover a wide range of topics, like emotional regulation, puberty, and sibling dynamics.
- “The ADHD Parenting Podcast” hosted jointly by a speech-language pathologist and a licensed clinical social worker -- Provides practical information for parenting a child with ADHD.
- “ADHD Essentials” hosted by Brendan Mahan, M. Ed., M.S. -- Features expert interviews and advice for parents.
And don’t forget the personal experience of working with a coach to help navigate your own journey of raising a child with ADHD or any other neurodivergent condition. As the mom of four neurodivergent sons who are now mostly grown and thriving in their own lives, I work with my clients to help them uncover their goals and to understand the obstacles that are getting in the way of achieving those goals. Together we develop a plan for success, and as a coach I hold my clients accountable and provide structure and support.
Contact me if you are overwhelmed, under supported, or feeling alone. I can help you see life really can be so much better.
