What if we told you that ADHD is far more complex than just behavioral disruptions? In this part-1 of my discussion with Kim Zahlaway, I ask her specifically about ADHD and how that can be a misunderstood disorder, how can we distinguish between anxiety and ADHD and the spectrum of ADHD.

Let's broaden our understanding together, as we sit down with mental health therapist, Kim Zahlaway, to delve deeper into the intricate world of ADHD. We shed light on how this evolving perspective allows us to recognize ADHD in children without hyperactivity, and discuss the anxiety that is often synonymous with this disorder.

We pivot our conversation towards rejection sensitivity, a concept that is largely overlooked in discussions about ADHD. Kim guides us through how the intensity of emotions, combined with unique brain wiring, can contribute to feelings of social anxiety or rejection. This is not just about understanding the realities of ADHD, but also about addressing the impact it can have on social relationships. Together, we'll discuss the common signs of learning differences and the struggles teenagers with ADHD face in maintaining friendships and dealing with anxiety.

Lastly, let's talk technology. Kim shares with us practical tips for parents on setting boundaries and expectations around their children's device use. Discover how technology can actually help regulate emotions for younger kids and promote self-awareness in teenagers. This episode is packed with expert advice, innovative perspectives and a wealth of resources for parents helping their children navigate life with ADHD. Do not miss out on this enlightening discussion!

Bio:
Kim Zahlaway is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of U Got This Counseling Services, LLC in Berwyn, PA, providing children, adolescents, and adults counseling services for over 25 years. In addition, Kim offers Parent Coaching sessions to parents of kids of any age and Life Coaching to young adults through her Young Adult Transformations Coaching Services. ADHD and Anxiety, and their impact on school, family, work, relationships, daily life, mental health and life’s transitions, have become Kim’s areas of expertise.

Utilizing a strength-based, individualized approach to support the social, emotional, and cognitive well-being of her clients, Kim has developed a three-phase treatment model called S.D.E.P.S. through which she engages clients of any age in a process of Self-Discovery, Empowerment and Problem Solving. Kim’s training and treatment orientation includes CBT, Mindfulness-based cognitive and behavior therapy, Family Systems, Integrative, Humanistic, Attachment Theory, Relational and Solution Focused Therapy.

Kim also provides consultations and presentations to parent groups, community organizations, educational settings, and professional organizations on topics relevant to raising teens in today’s world including anxiety, parenting and the use and impact of technology and social media.

Resources:

1. Chadd.org
2. Additudemag.com
3. Inattentive ADHD Coalition - www.iadhd.org

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