CADDAC: A Go-To Resource for ADHD Support in Canada

I will never forget the first time I heard Heidi Bernhardt, Founder of CADDAC, speak. It was 2019, and I was driving and listening to CBC Radio when she came on, spreading awareness about the Centre. As a mother of a child with ADHD, I was thrilled to hear someone share a story and perspective so similar to mine. As soon as I got home, I reached out to CADDAC to share my story and inquire how I could get involved. I felt proud and hopeful.

About CADDAC

A non-profit organization, CADDAC aims to enhance the lives of Canadians impacted by ADHD by focusing on awareness, education, and advocacy, providing national leadership in ADHD. Their programs support ADHD individuals across all ages throughout Canada. They also organize an ever-growing annual ADHD Conference, connecting experts, couples, parents, and community members from across the country.

My Thoughts on CADDAC

As a non-profit, they rely on a small, dedicated team and the support of volunteers. Having volunteered with them myself, I can attest to their tireless efforts to create new services and support the ADHD community as a whole.

I am amazed, though not surprised, to see how much this organization has grown in the last five years. Key programs and initiatives include CADDAC’s Executive Functioning program, group coaching programs, educational events, and ongoing awareness and advocacy initiatives. CADDAC is a national reference for ADHD, working closely with CADDRA (the Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance) and serving as a go-to resource for Canadians and professionals alike.

I highly recommend Canadian families who are impacted by ADHD to leverage the available resources offered by CADDAC because the programs offer both no-cost and affordable programs for ADHD individuals who need the support.

CADDAC Through the Lens of an ADHD Life Coach

As an ADHD Life Coach, I regularly share CADDAC’s resources with my clients and use their website as a trusted source of education and advocacy. Their website provides practical and reliable information for a wide range of needs. Whether clients seek details on the Disability Tax Credit, scholarships and bursaries, employment resources, or guidance on navigating ADHD as a couple, I know I can confidently direct them to CADDAC. Their information is always current, relevant, and trustworthy, making it an invaluable resource for anyone navigating ADHD in Canada.

Why I Highly Recommend CADDAC

• Free Support Groups: Virtual support groups are available for parents, adults with ADHD, youth, and those navigating ADHD and Substance Use Disorder. Many couples find these peer-led groups helpful for understanding each other’s experiences and building a supportive network. These drop-in support groups are held monthly, with suggested topics provided in advance, but participants are welcome to discuss any issues relevant to them.

• Group Coaching: For a minimal fee, youth and adults can access group coaching programs. Unlike the support groups, these coaching groups offer structured weekly sessions with pre-determined topics, including an educational component and homework assignments. This format provides a more guided and goal-oriented experience, making it ideal for individuals or couples looking to develop specific skills and strategies for managing ADHD together.

• Webinars: CADDAC offers a steady stream of affordable (often free) webinars on a wide range of ADHD-related topics, including relationship dynamics, communication, and executive functioning skills relevant to couples and families alike. Their comprehensive archive of past sessions is accessible on their website.

• Annual ADHD Conference: This well-organized event is a highlight for the Canadian ADHD community. It offers opportunities to learn from experts, connect with others, and meet the passionate team behind CADDAC. Sessions focused on relationships, parenting, and shared strategies for thriving with ADHD can benefit couples.

• ADHD Resource Directory: CADDAC’s searchable directory is an invaluable tool listing services across Canada for individuals with ADHD, their families, and loved ones, including couples’ counselling and relationship resources. What sets it apart is that every resource submitted is carefully reviewed and approved by CADDAC’s dedicated Resource Navigator before being added to the directory. This ensures that all listings are trustworthy, relevant, and up-to-date, providing users with reliable guidance as they seek support.

• Practical Life Resources: From the Disability Tax Credit and post-secondary scholarships to employment supports and relationship guidance, CADDAC offers practical, actionable information for every stage of life.

Conclusion

CADDAC offers incredible value to the ADHD community and Canadians at large. Through education, advocacy, support services, and trustworthy resources, they make a meaningful difference for individuals with ADHD, their parents, couples, and loved ones. The team is small but mighty, always ready to help and serve the community. As a parent of young adults with ADHD, the non-ADHD partner, a volunteer, and an ADHD Life Coach, I am proud to support this organization. While there is limited support for non-ADHD partners, much of their content is relevant due to the educational nature of helping non-ADHD partners understand the challenges that their ADHD family members might face.  I highly recommend subscribing to CADDAC to stay informed about their offerings and ADHD community events, whether you’re navigating ADHD as an individual, a parent, or as a couple.