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Having checked out the on-line version of the ADHD conference in 2023, I was always curious about the in person conference. And since they announced early in 2024 that the conference in Anaheim, CA, I decided to check it out myself since it is just a short plane hop for me. Now having attended the conference personally, it was an incredible experience filled with valuable insights, deep discussions, and meaningful connections. Today, I share more of why this conference made it to my gift list last year.
Event Overview
The ADHD International Conference 2024 was a power-packed 3-day event featuring top ADHD researchers, therapists, and advocates. Attendees had the opportunity to dive deep into ADHD education, learn practical strategies, and engage in discussions tailored to various aspects of ADHD life. This year's conference is hosted by 3 organizations, ADHD Coaches Organization (ACO), ADDA and CHADD. During the 1st day, it is dedicated to ADHD professionals, ADHD coaches and mental health professionals, with pre-conference workshops that span across various topics to help professional to stay inform. The 2nd and 3th day of the event are for general attendees and professionals. With sessions covering everything from executive function challenges to relationship dynamics, the conference was designed to provide knowledge and actionable solutions.
For me personally, I highly recommend ADHD couples at all stages in the journey to attend the in person event as the ability to connect with others who are in the same journey helps makes us feel less alone and heard.
Why Should ADHD Couples Consider Attending?
Packed Full of ADHD Education and Knowledge in Just Two Days
When we are at home, we have to find time to learn about ADHD. However, life gets in the way and often this get pushed to a lower priority. By attending a live event, it could serve as a focus education experience where attendees can absorb expert-led sessions and gain insights. It allows you to focus and learn while you are at the conference, allowing other tasks that could wait till end of the conference. One of the most impactful sessions for me was Ari Tuckman’s session, ADHD Couples Therapy Inside and Out. in this session, seeing a mock therapy session play out in real-time helped attendees grasp the nuances of how therapy works and how therapists navigate couples' struggles. For any couples who are looking into couples therapy, this mock session is a great way to understand how therapy works and understand what they should be expecting.
Meeting Others on the Journey
One of the most rewarding thing for me was the opportunity to meet other ADHD couples and hear their stories firsthand. Throughout the conference, I had opportunity to chat with ADHD couples or individual partners on their journeys. Through these conversations, many of us felt heard, understood and help us connect the dots in our own marriage. This year, ADHD marriage experts, Melissa Orlov and Marriage & Family Therapist,Susan Tschudi, hosted the session, Please help Me/Go Away The ADHD relationship Paradox and the ADHD couple peer support group during the conference. Both the session and especially the support group was pack with couples looking for guidance and support. They shared their challenges and triumphs, making it a space for validation, encouragement, and learning. The connections made at this event extend beyond the conference itself, as many share their contact info so they can stay in touch with long after the event ends.
Awesome Keynotes from Experts and Advocates
Every year, the conference brings in thought leaders who share practical strategies and inspiring stories. This year, Penn Holderness’ keynote on thriving with ADHD was especially impactful. As an award-winning content creator and author, Penn shared his journey of thriving with ADHD, emphasizing how he navigates life with his family. His talk reinforced the idea that thriving with ADHD isn’t about “fixing” anything but learning how to work with ADHD traits to build a fulfilling and successful life. His humor and relatability made the keynote both engaging and deeply inspiring.
Conclusion
Before attending the conference, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. However, as I sat in the ADHD couples peer support group, listening to others share their stories, it reaffirmed what I’ve always believed—ADHD couples can thrive. This belief is why this website and blog exist. The more you connect with successful ADHD couples and take action together, the clearer the path to a thriving relationship becomes. The ADHD International Conference is an essential step on that journey.
Whether you’re an ADHD partner or a non-ADHD spouse, attending this event can provide you with the tools, knowledge, and connections to strengthen your relationship and navigate ADHD with confidence. If you’ve never attended before, I highly recommend putting this conference on your calendar for this year! The next in-person conference will take place from November 13-15, 2025, in Kansas City, MI.
Can’t wait till November? The online version of this conference is coming on March 7-8, 2025. You can attend virtually from your own home and get access to the Penn Holderness keynote recording.
Find other ADHD couples resources in the events calendar here.
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