Welcome back to another insightful read on ADHD Goals! Today, we delve into the enlightening conversation we had with Dr. Lisa Pion-Berlin, a clinical hypnotherapist, social worker, and CEO of Parents Anonymous. Dr. Lisa shares her expertise on understanding ADHD, the importance of advocacy, and how parents can support their children effectively. Here’s a deep dive into our discussion.
A Glimpse into Dr. Lisa’s Mission
Dr. Lisa Pion-Berlin began her journey with a doctorate in social work, driven by a commitment to help parents, children, and youth who were often blamed and shamed for their struggles. As the President and CEO of Parents Anonymous since 1992, she advocates for shared leadership, evidence-based support programs, and the empowerment of parents and youth. Dr. Lisa emphasises the importance of asking those impacted by ADHD what services they need, rather than assuming what might help from a detached perspective.
The Challenges Faced by Parents and Children
Dr. Lisa discusses how societal and systemic issues often fail to address the real problems faced by families dealing with ADHD. For instance, policies that create barriers rather than avenues for support are a significant obstacle. She highlights the critical role of schools in recognizing and adapting to the needs of children with ADHD. Unfortunately, outdated training and lack of proper understanding can lead to children being mislabeled or unfairly disciplined, exacerbating their struggles.
Advocacy and Support for ADHD
One of the critical points Dr. Lisa raises is the importance of parental advocacy. She recounts how many parents hesitate to seek help due to fear of judgement or being labelled as “bad parents.” Dr. Lisa encourages parents to partner with schools and push for the necessary accommodations and support their children need. She underscores that asking for help is a sign of strength and an essential step in ensuring a supportive environment for children with ADHD.
The Role of Schools in Managing ADHD
Dr. Lisa points out the disconnect between schools’ understanding of ADHD and the actual needs of children. She argues that teachers, counsellors, and principals need retraining to support children with ADHD effectively. By partnering with parents and asking the right questions, schools can better understand each child’s unique needs and provide appropriate support, rather than resorting to punitive measures that do more harm than good.
Understanding and Addressing Children’s Emotions
Dr. Lisa explains that children often act out due to underlying emotions like fear, rejection, or anxiety. She advises parents to help children identify and express these emotions, using tools like somatic responses and creating safe spaces for dialogue. For example, teaching children to recognize physical signs of stress, such as a tingling sensation or a racing heart, can help them manage their emotions better and reduce outbursts.
The Importance of Physical Activity
Physical activity plays a crucial role in managing ADHD. Dr. Lisa advocates for regular outdoor exercise, be it walking, biking, or playing sports. She emphasises that exercise helps not only in physical development but also in improving mental health and creating a sense of community among children. Simple activities like family walks after dinner can significantly impact well-being.
Multi-Generational ADHD Diagnosis
Many parents discover their own ADHD while seeking diagnoses for their children. Dr. Lisa views this as an opportunity for families to embark on a journey of mutual support and understanding. She encourages parents to address their ADHD openly and seek help, as managing their own condition can lead to better parenting and a healthier family dynamic.
Clinical Hypnotherapy for ADHD
Dr. Lisa also introduces the concept of clinical hypnotherapy as a tool to help people with ADHD. By putting individuals into a light trance state, she helps them recall and reframe past experiences associated with negative emotions like fear and anxiety. This therapy aims to provide individuals with new narratives and coping mechanisms, empowering them to manage their ADHD symptoms better.
Final Thoughts and Resources
Dr. Lisa emphasises that parents need to keep advocating for their children and not accept inadequate solutions. Whether it’s partnering with schools, seeking support from community resources, or exploring therapeutic options like hypnotherapy, there are numerous ways to support children with ADHD effectively.
For more resources, including meditations and support information, you can visit the Parents Anonymous website. Remember, asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
If you found this article helpful, consider sharing it with friends or subscribing to our blog for more insights on managing ADHD. Let’s continue to spread awareness and support each other in this journey. For any personal coaching needs, feel free to reach out to us at ADHD Goals.
Thank you for reading, and until next time, take care and stay empowered!
ADHD Awareness Month – October 2024
30% OFF Coaching & Workbooks
Use Coupon Code: COACH30
Visit: https://adhdgoals.co/resources/
In this episode of the ADHD Goals podcast, host Laurence talks with Dr. Lisa Pion Berlin, a clinical hypnotherapist, social worker, and CEO of Parents Anonymous. Dr. Lisa discusses her work advocating for parents, children, and youth facing mental health challenges, emphasising the importance of shared leadership and community support. The conversation covers the barriers parents face in getting appropriate ADHD support for their children and the need for effective partnerships between schools and families. Dr. Lisa also shares insights on the role of hypnotherapy in managing ADHD and offers practical advice for parents dealing with multi-generational ADHD diagnoses.
Parents Anonymous Website: https://parentsanonymous.org/
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:38 Dr. Lisa’s Background and Mission
04:39 Challenges Faced by Parents and Children
05:24 Advocacy and Support for ADHD
06:49 School Systems and ADHD
10:43 Parental Advocacy and Legal Rights
18:58 Understanding and Addressing Children’s Emotions
28:01 Recognizing Physical Symptoms of Stress
28:17 Addressing Negative School Environments
31:28 Understanding ADHD in Children
33:14 The Role of Parents as Advocates
36:15 The Importance of Physical Activity
38:07 Multi-Generational ADHD Diagnosis
42:52 Clinical Hypnotherapy for ADHD
47:22 Empowering Children with Self-Regulation Techniques
53:49 Final Thoughts and Resources
54:51 Outro to the ADHD Goals Podcast
Need Help with your ADHD?
Visit my website: https://adhdgoals.co/
Want me to be your ADHD Coach?