By staff in News — 14 Oct 2025

Live Webinar on October 16: "Adapting Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for ADHD and Neurodivergence" - ADDitude

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Do current cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches inadvertently promote masking and conformity for individuals with ADHD? Or do evidence-based CBT strategies support real-world functioning, self-efficacy, and quality of life for neurodivergent clients? Does CBT encourage denial of identity? Or does it promote authenticity? In this webinar, two leading psychotherapists will discuss the efficacy of CBT for ADHD and how modern approaches should move from treating ADHD behaviors and impairments to empowering individuals. Michael Meinzer, Ph.D., and Saskia Van der Oord, Ph.D., will discuss and underscore the need for evidence-based strategies that support functioning and respect neurodivergent identities without pathologizing their differences.

In this webinar, you will learn:

How CBT is evolving, and what challenges it can effectively address for people with ADHD and where it might miss the mark
How traditional (non-adapted) CBT approaches may inadvertently encourage masking and conformity to neurotypical norms
How CBT for ADHD can help you adapt your lifestyle to your environment and improve situations involving your job, relationships, and more
How to assess whether CBT is working for you
What people should know in choosing and working with a therapist

Have a question for our expert? There will be an opportunity to post questions for the presenter during the live webinar.

Behavioral Therapy for ADHD: Resources

Meet the Expert Speakers

Michael Meinzer, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Illinois, Chicago (UIC). He directs UIC’s Young Adult & Adolescent ADHD Services research lab and the SUCCEEDS College ADHD Clinic. He recently published Mastering the Transition to College: The Ultimate Guidebook for Parents of Teens with ADHD (#CommissionsEarned) based on his research and clinical experience.

Saskia Van der Oord, Ph.D., is a professor of clinical psychology at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences at KU Leuven (Belgium). She is a clinical psychologist and behavior therapist, co-director of the faculty’s ADHD clinic, and head of the postgraduate training program in cognitive behavior therapy for children and adolescents. Her research work is focused on the development, evaluation and adaptation of non-pharmacological interventions for ADHD. Her research work is fueled by the perspectives of people with lived experience.

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Certificate of Attendance: For information on how to purchase the certificate of attendance option (cost $10), register for the webinar, then look for instructions in the email you’ll receive one hour after it ends. The certificate of attendance link will also be available here, on the webinar replay page, several hours after the live webinar. ADDitude does not offer CEU credits.

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Overview

Living with ADHD symptoms in adults in the UK can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding effective treatment options. This article highlights a free live webinar on October 16 titled "Adapting Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for ADHD and Neurodivergence," featuring expert insights on how ADHD management strategies can empower individuals rather than enforce conformity. With the right support and understanding, UK adults can improve their quality of life and navigate their ADHD symptoms more effectively.

This webinar addresses critical questions regarding the adaptation of traditional cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for those with ADHD. It emphasises the importance of tailoring approaches to respect neurodivergent identities, aiming to enhance self-efficacy and overall functioning. The findings reveal how current CBT strategies may sometimes inadvertently promote masking behaviours among individuals with ADHD, making the discussion particularly relevant.

Key Details

During the webinar, leading psychotherapists Michael Meinzer, Ph.D., and Saskia Van der Oord, Ph.D., will explore how CBT can evolve to better serve adults with ADHD. They will discuss traditional CBT's limitations, which may reinforce neurotypical norms, thus hindering authentic self-expression. The experts argue for the need to shift focus from merely treating ADHD behaviours to fostering empowerment and authenticity in clients.

Key topics include:

How CBT is evolving to tackle specific challenges faced by adults with ADHD.
The potential drawbacks of traditional CBT approaches that may lead to masking and conformity.
Practical applications of CBT that can enhance everyday situations, including work and relationships.
Methods to assess the effectiveness of CBT for individual needs.
Guidance on selecting and collaborating with therapists who respect ADHD identities.

Research indicates that individuals who engage in tailored CBT strategies often report improvements in their daily functioning and well-being. Furthermore, evidence suggests that non-pharmacological interventions can significantly complement ADHD treatment options in the UK, making this webinar a vital resource for those seeking comprehensive support.

Practical Takeaways

Register for the webinar to gain insights directly from experts in ADHD therapy.
Consider CBT strategies that prioritise your unique experiences and needs.
Explore local resources and support groups focused on ADHD management in the UK.
Discuss your treatment options with your GP, including potential ADHD medication in the UK.
Track your progress with CBT to assess its effectiveness for your situation.
Investigate how to manage ADHD without medication by incorporating lifestyle changes and mindfulness techniques.
Engage with professionals who understand the nuances of adult ADHD and neurodivergence.

Bottom Line

The most important takeaway from this article is that understanding and adapting therapeutic approaches like CBT can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals living with ADHD. UK adults facing challenges due to ADHD symptoms will find this information particularly beneficial. By exploring how to manage ADHD without medication and engaging with supportive therapies, individuals can foster a more authentic and empowered life. However, it's essential to remember that not all strategies will work for everyone; personalised approaches are crucial.

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