ADHD Mom Docs

ADHD Mom Docs

By Dr Nerissa Bauer and Dr Jennifer DiltsHealth & FitnessMental HealthParentingKids & Family
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ADHD Mom Docs episodes

  • 52: ENCORE: So You Want to Start Medication for ADHD

    **The ADHD Mom Docs are taking a summer break and using the next 6 weeks to re-air select episodes. Season Two episodes officially drop on August 18, 2026** 

    SHOW SUMMARY:

    In this episode, we delve into the pivotal role of stimulant medications in managing ADHD. Discover how these medications work, their benefits, and the considerations for those seeking treatment. Join us as we explore expert insights and real-life experiences to better understand this crucial aspect of ADHD management.

    SHOW NOTES:
    • Make sure to follow us on social media (Instagram) @ADHDMomDocs you can send us a DM with a question or suggestions for future episodes! Or send us an email at [email protected] We'd love to hear from you!
    • Join our ADHD Sleuths 2.0 Membership community and get even more time with Dr Bauer and Dr Dilts! Get extra podcast episodes, ask the doctor episodes, participate in our exclusive book club with audio companions and expert virtual LIVE events with guests from medicine, psychology, coaching, education and more! We have a private group in the Band app so you can interact with other members. Learn more here: https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/Podcasts
    • TEACH Me ADHD Directors Cut with Dr Kristen Stuppy Interested in learning more about this curriculum for teens, 13-18, with ADHD or executive function challenges? Click on this link to learn more and schedule a call with Dr Stuppy to learn which workshops are right for your teen! https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/teach-me-adhd-directors-cut-teen-series-registration
    • Read more about the Multimodal Treatment Study (MTA): https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/205525 
      • Update about MTA Study and the Role of Medication: Article in Additude Magazine from April 6, 2017 
      • Resource of the Week: From Additude Magazine: Parent's Guide to Medications: https://www.additudemag.com/download/adhd-medications-a-parents-guide/
      • 42 min
      • 51: ENCORE: After a Diagnosis, What Next?

        **The ADHD Mom Docs are taking a summer break and using the next 6 weeks to re-air select episodes. Season Two episodes officially drop on August 18, 2026** 

        SHOW SUMMARY:

        In this insightful episode, we delve into the complex world of ADHD management, exploring the delicate balance between medication and non-medication strategies. Dr Bauer and Dr Dilts share their personal experiences and professional insights, offering a comprehensive look at how to effectively manage ADHD symptoms with a care plan. Whether you're considering medication, alternative therapies, or a combination of both, this episode provides valuable guidance to help you make informed decisions. Tune in to discover practical tips and strategies for achieving a balanced approach to ADHD management.

        SHOW NOTES:
        • Make sure to follow us on social media (Instagram) @ADHDMomDocs you can send us a DM with a question or suggestions for future episodes! Or send us an email at [email protected] We'd love to hear from you!
        • Join our ADHD Sleuths 2.0 Membership community and get even more time with Dr Bauer and Dr Dilts! Get extra podcast episodes, ask the doctor episodes, participate in our exclusive book club with audio companions and expert virtual LIVE events with guests from medicine, psychology, coaching, education and more! We have a private group in the Band app so you can interact with other members. Learn more here: https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/Podcasts
        • Parent Self-Reflection Worksheet: Click here to get your FREE Download: https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/momdocs-podcast-download-medication-self-reflection
        • Resource of the Week: 13 Questions to Ask Before Starting Any ADHD Medication from ADDitude Magazine: https://www.additudemag.com/download/questions-to-ask-before-starting-adhd-medication/?src=download
        • Other Links: *Dr Dilts's must use moving bags for college bound families: https://amzn.to/4lCC0Qc
        • *Amazon affiliate link

          42 min
        • 50: ENCORE-Demystifying the ADHD Diagnostic Process Part 2

          **The ADHD Mom Docs are taking a summer break and are re-airing select episodes. Season Two episodes officially drop on August 18, 2026** 

          SHOW SUMMARY:

          This is part two of Demystifying the ADHD Diagnostic Process, so make sure you listen to last week's episode first! Drs Jen Dilts and Nerissa Bauer continue discussing the structured questions they ask to uncover potential risk factors and confounding elements that might mimic ADHD. They emphasize the importance of considering both nature and nurture, and the role of family history, sleep, nutrition, and environment in shaping a child's experience. Whether you're a parent, educator, or just curious, this episode offers valuable insights into the complexities of ADHD diagnosis. Tune in to learn more about the tools and approaches used to ensure a comprehensive understanding of each child's unique situation.

          SHOW NOTES:
          • Make sure to follow us on social media (Instagram) @ADHDMomDocs you can send us a DM with a question or suggestions for future episodes! Or send us an email at [email protected] We'd love to hear from you!
          • Resource of the Week: Different Thinkers ADHD by Drs Katia Fredriksen and Yael Rothman: https://amzn.to/4kDxvVc
          • *Amazon affiliate link

            • if you want to get on the TEACH Me ADHD Wait List now, Agency doors are opening soon in mid August! Families who get on the wait list will be notified earlier when registration is set to begin and they will receive a "top secret" link to register, along with an early bird discount when you enroll during our priority period. https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/teach-me-adhd-wait-list
              • Check out testimonials from other families who have completed TEACH Me ADHD One with a child and parent: https://youtu.be/QQFYO05Hu_s?si=6BtypcxSJp5oRSz5
              • One with Sr Detective Scooter: https://youtu.be/wNTYbvd9wv4 There are many more on Dr Bauer's YouTube channel!
              • 45 min
              • 49: ENCORE-Demystifying the ADHD Diagnostic Process Part 1

                **The ADHD Mom Docs are taking a summer break and using the next 6 weeks to re-air select episodes. Season Two episodes officially drop on August 18, 2026** 

                SHOW SUMMARY:

                In our first episode, we decided to focus on the journey into understanding ADHD by demystifying the diagnostic process. Join pediatricians Dr Jennifer Dilts and Dr Nerissa Bauer as they pull back the curtain on what goes on in their offices (and their heads!), discussing the structured questions they ask to uncover potential risk factors and confounding elements that might mimic ADHD. They emphasize the importance of considering both nature and nurture, and the role of family history, sleep, nutrition, and environment in shaping a child's experience. Whether you're a parent, educator, or just curious, this episode offers valuable insights into the complexities of an ADHD diagnosis. Tune in to learn more about the tools and approaches used to ensure a comprehensive understanding of each child's unique situation.

                SHOW NOTES:
                • Follow us on Instagram and send us questions via DM: @ADHDMomDocs You can send us an email too at [email protected] We would love to hear from you!
                • Resource of the Week: Driven to Distraction by Dr Edward Hallowell and Dr John Ratey https://amzn.to/4kEeW34  *
                • *Amazon affilate link

                  41 min
                • 48: ADHD Summer Q&A: Boredom, Doctor Visits, and Keeping Kids Learning
                  SHOW SUMMARY:

                  In this episode, Dr. Nerissa Bauer and Dr. Jennifer Dilts share expert advice on managing summer life with children who have ADHD. From maintaining routines to preventing boredom and ensuring continuity of care, this episode offers actionable strategies to help families navigate the season with confidence.

                  Key Topics:

                  • The importance of summer ADHD appointments and creating separate visits
                  • How to stay engaged with your child's education during summer to avoid the "summer slide"
                  • Creative activity ideas to keep kids with ADHD active and engaged
                  • Managing boredom and setting up flexible routines to prevent meltdowns
                  • Tips for involving children in medical visits to foster independence
                  • Practical ways to reinforce reading, math, and science skills during the summer
                  • Using reward charts, visual aids, and gamification to motivate children
                  • Family collaboration and community support to share summer responsibilities
                  • SHOW NOTES:
                    • Make sure to follow us on social media (Instagram) @ADHDMomDocs you can send us a DM with a question or suggestions for future episodes! Or send us an email at [email protected] We'd love to hear from you!
                    • Join our ADHD Sleuths 2.0 Membership community and get even more time with Dr Bauer and Dr Dilts! Get extra podcast episodes, ask the doctor episodes, participate in our exclusive book club with audio companions and extra expert recorded episodes with guests from medicine, psychology, coaching, education and more! We have a private group in the Band app so you can interact with other members. Learn more here: https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/Podcasts Sign up for $15/month and cancel anytime
                    • Resources of the Week:
                      • The Lazy Genius Podcast: https://www.thelazygeniuscollective.com/lazy;
                      • Home and Kind Summer Survival Kit: https://homeandkind.com/products/the-summer-survival-kit;
                      • Free webinar replay from our friends at ADDITUDE MAG,  A Summer Schedule for Kids with ADHD: How to Balance Fun, Independence and Structure: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/summer-schedule-adhd-children/?src=embed_link
                      • 40 min
                      • 47: The Power of Recognition and Reframing in Late-Diagnosed Women with ADHD
                        SHOW SUMMARY:

                        In this episode Liz Lewis, ADHD coach and author of You Are Not the Problem, shares her personal journey with ADHD, her insights into the unique challenges faced by women diagnosed later in life, and practical ways to reframe struggles to empower oneself. Whether you're newly diagnosed or supporting a loved one, Liz's wisdom offers valuable perspectives on embracing your whole self and navigating systemic barriers.

                        Main Topics Covered:

                        • The origin of the book title You Are Not the Problem and its significance
                        • The invisibility of ADHD in girls and women and why it's often overlooked
                        • How masking manifests socially and interpersonally in women with ADHD
                        • Liz’s personal diagnosis story and her early experiences with treatment
                        • The impact of systemic issues and societal expectations on ADHD management
                        • Practical approaches to recognizing emotional dysregulation, including rejection sensitivity
                        • The importance of seeing oneself as a whole person beyond ADHD
                        • Strategies for handling the emotional intensity and misconceptions about ADHD
                        • How to support and advocate for children and young girls for earlier diagnosis and support
                        • This episode emphasizes that understanding, acceptance, and systemic support are key to thriving with ADHD. Liz encourages women to see beyond labels and recognize their complexity and strength, advocating for early intervention and compassionate awareness.

                          SHOW NOTES:
                          • Make sure to follow us on social media (Instagram) @ADHDMomDocs you can send us a DM with a question or suggestions for future episodes! Or send us an email at [email protected] We'd love to hear from you!
                          • Join our ADHD Sleuths 2.0 Membership community and get even more time with Dr Bauer and Dr Dilts! Get extra podcast episodes, ask the doctor episodes, participate in our exclusive book club with audio companions and extra expert recorded episodes with guests from medicine, psychology, coaching, education and more! We have a private group in the Band app so you can interact with other members. Learn more here: https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/Podcasts  Sign up for $15/month and cancel anytime
                          • Connect with our Guest and get a copy of her book, You are Not the Problem anywhere books are sold and please leave a review! 
                            • You can connect with her on Instagram @lizlewisliterary 
                            • You can follow her on Substack: Healthyadhd.substack.com
                            • You can email her directly at [email protected] or [email protected]
                            • 44 min
                            • 46: Your Summer Medication Questions Answered!
                              SHOW NOTES:

                              This episode dives into common questions about managing ADHD medications during the summer months. Whether you're considering medication holidays, adjusting dosages, or planning travel, Dr Bauer and Dr Dilts share practical advice to help your child thrive all season long.

                              Main Topics:

                              • When and how to continue or pause ADHD medications during summer
                              • Strategies for handling medication side effects and preferences
                              • Best practices for medication management during travel and transition back to school
                              • Tools for monitoring medication effectiveness and tracking behavior Importance of communication with teachers and healthcare providers
                              • Key Insights: Most children with ADHD benefit from continuing medication consistently through summer, as ADHD impacts daily functioning beyond school. Openly discuss with your child why they may not want medication in the summer and troubleshoot side effects collaboratively. Summer provides a unique opportunity to reassess medication effectiveness through objective testing and behavioral observation. Planning ahead for trips involves coordinating with your child's healthcare team and pharmacy to ensure medication supply. Gradually reintroduce routines before school starts to ease transitions, ideally two weeks prior. Using tools like the Vanderbilt Assessment and objective computer tests can support informed decisions. Focus on holistic brain health strategies—sleep, activity, nutrition, social connection—beyond medication. Approach medication decisions with curiosity and collaboration, respecting your child's voice and preferences. Early communication with teachers and providers helps streamline medication management and avoid logistical stress. This episode aims to empower caregivers with practical tips and reassurance. Approach medication use thoughtfully, and remember—collaboration with your child's healthcare team and teachers can make summer ADHD management much smoother.

                                 

                                SHOW NOTES: 
                                • Make sure to follow us on social media (Instagram) @ADHDMomDocs you can send us a DM with a question or suggestions for future episodes! Or send us an email at [email protected]. We'd love to hear from you!
                                •  

                                  • Join our ADHD Sleuths 2.0 Membership community and get even more time with Dr Bauer and Dr Dilts! Get extra podcast episodes, ask the doctor episodes, participate in our exclusive book club with audio companions and extra expert recorded episodes with guests from medicine, psychology, coaching, education and more! We have a private group in the Band app so you can interact with other members. Learn more here: https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/Podcasts Sign up for $15/month and cancel anytime
                                  • Resources we Discussed on this Episode:
                                    • ADHD Medication Vacation Pros and Cons, According to ADDItude Readers: https://www.additudemag.com/medication-vacation-adhd-children-pros-cons/ 
                                    • Can Your Child Safely Take a Break from ADHD Meds? https://www.additudemag.com/can-my-child-take-break-from-adhd-meds/?src=embed_link 
                                    • The Essential ADHD Monitoring System (download from ADDitude: https://www.additudemag.com/download/adhd-medication-monitoring-system/?src=embed_link
                                    •  

                                    • The big 5 for mental health: https://mentalhealthliteracy.org/big-5-for-mental-health/ 

                                    • Go back and listen to ADHD Mom Docs Episode 29, Can a Computer Test Help Diagnose ADHD? https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adhd-mom-docs/id1832518285?i=1000750111958 (Available also on Spotify, Amazon Music and Audible) 
                                    • 49 min
                                    • 45: The Surprising Power of Live Coaching in PCIT for Behavior Change
                                      SHOW SUMMARY:

                                      Discover expert insights on evidence-based therapies like Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, SPACE, and innovative approaches for addressing anxiety, ADHD, and selective mutism in children. Learn how these treatments can transform parent-child dynamics and foster long-lasting positive change.

                                      Main Topics & Insights:

                                      • The foundational principles and benefits of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), including live coaching and developmental adaptations
                                      • The specialized protocols for older children and children with selective mutism, and how they differ from traditional PCIT
                                      • How PCIT effectively improves emotion regulation in children with ADHD and big feelings
                                      • The role of SPACE therapy in managing anxiety, decreasing accommodating behaviors, and supporting parents
                                      • Practical application: coaching parents through real-life scenarios, including handling meltdowns and fostering brave talking
                                      • How to recognize suitable candidates for PCIT and other evidence-based treatments
                                      • The importance of establishing treatment goals, clear timelines (typically 14-16 weeks), and maintaining a start-to-finish structure
                                      • Resources for parents, including recommended children's books, podcasts, and strategies for school-based social skills
                                      • The innovative protocol for PCIT in treating selective mutism, engaging children without initial verbal interaction
                                      • Supporting parents through space and other therapies, including virtual group options and telehealth
                                      • SHOW NOTES:
                                        • Make sure to follow us on social media (Instagram) @ADHDMomDocs you can send us a DM with a question or suggestions for future episodes! Or send us an email at [email protected] We'd love to hear from you!
                                        • Join our ADHD Sleuths 2.0 Membership community and get even more time with Dr Bauer and Dr Dilts! Get extra podcast episodes, ask the doctor episodes, participate in our exclusive book club with audio companions and extra expert recorded episodes with guests from medicine, psychology, coaching, education and more! We have a private group in the Band app so you can interact with other members. Learn more here: https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/Podcasts Sign up for $15/month and cancel anytime
                                        • Connect with our guest-learn more by going to her website, https://www.kcpcit.com/
                                        • Follow Julie on Instagram and FB @kcpcit
                                        • Here are our guest's additional recommendations and resources:
                                          • Lynn Lyons SW: podcast FlusterClux
                                          • Eli Lebowitz's book, Breaking free of Childhood Anxiety and OCD 
                                          • Julie's favorite children's books she uses in her practice:
                                            • Taco falls apart
                                            • A little spot of flexible thinking for anxiety and rigid behavior
                                            • My brain is a race car
                                            • Your fantastic elastic brain
                                            • Different Thinkers ADHD
                                            • What Ifs
                                            • ARFID and extremely picky eaters by Yaara Shimshoni (Author), Eli R. Lebowitz https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Free-Picky-Eating-Science-Based/dp/0197769446
                                            • 50 min
                                            • 44: The Hidden Connection Between ADHD and Migraines Every Parent Must Know
                                              SHOW SUMMARY:

                                              This episode dives into the complex relationship between ADHD and headaches in kids, particularly migraines, offering practical guidance for parents and clinicians. Dr. Jennifer Dilts share her expertise, highlighting how to recognize symptoms, differentiate migraine from medication side effects, and effective treatment options.

                                              Main Topics Covered:

                                              • The link between ADHD and migraines in children
                                              • How to identify migraine symptoms and differentiate from tension headaches
                                              • The influence of family history on headache diagnosis
                                              • Medication side effects and when to consider medication adjustments
                                              • Modern treatments for pediatric migraine, including preventive and rescue strategies
                                              • The importance of thorough history-taking and physical exams
                                              • Resources and tools for managing pediatric headaches
                                              • SHOW NOTES:
                                                • Make sure to follow us on social media (Instagram) @ADHDMomDocs you can send us a DM with a question or suggestions for future episodes! Or send us an email at [email protected] We'd love to hear from you!
                                                • Join our ADHD Sleuths 2.0 Membership community and get even more time with Dr Bauer and Dr Dilts! Get extra podcast episodes, ask the doctor episodes, participate in our exclusive book club with audio companions and extra expert recorded episodes with guests from medicine, psychology, coaching, education and more! We have a private group in the Band app so you can interact with other members. Learn more here: https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/Podcasts Sign up for $15/month and cancel anytime
                                                • Meg Foundation Headache Toolkit https://www.megfoundationforpain.org/headache-toolkit/
                                                • 53 min
                                                • 43: Growing Through ADHD: Parents Share What Works
                                                  SHOW SUMMARY:

                                                  This is a follow up episode to episode 33, From Questions to Answers: Parents on the Power of a Diagnosis. This time we asked our patients, ADHD Sleuths members and listeners the following two questions:

                                                  1. What growth have you seen in your child?

                                                  2. What would you tell other parents who are new to the ADHD journey?

                                                  This episode dives into heartfelt stories shared by parents about their journey with ADHD, highlighting growth, resilience, and practical advice. It offers hope and real-world insights for families navigating similar experiences, emphasizing community, advocacy, and self-compassion.

                                                  Key Topics
                                                  • Parental reflections on the benefits and growth seen in children with ADHD
                                                  • The importance of early diagnosis and advocacy
                                                  • Strategies for emotional regulation and social skills development
                                                  • The transformative power of tailored treatments and education
                                                  • Encouragement for new parents embarking on their ADHD journey
                                                  • The role of community, multi-disciplinary care, and self-care
                                                  • SHOW NOTES:
                                                    • Make sure to follow us on social media (Instagram) @ADHDMomDocs you can send us a DM with a question or suggestions for future episodes! Or send us an email at [email protected] We'd love to hear from you!
                                                    • Join our ADHD Sleuths 2.0 Membership community and get even more time with Dr Bauer and Dr Dilts! Get extra podcast episodes, ask the doctor episodes, participate in our exclusive book club with audio companions and extra expert recorded episodes with guests from medicine, psychology, coaching, education and more! We have a private group in the Band app so you can interact with other members. Learn more here: https://www.letstalkkidshealth.org/Podcasts Sign up for $15/month and cancel anytime
                                                    • We would love to hear from our listeners! We welcome submissions for these two prompts and our other two highlighted in episode 33 (How has getting a diagnosis of ADHD been helpful? and What is the best thing about having ADHD?) We plan to air responses in future episodes! You can let us know if you allow us to use your first name or "from a parent" Submit your responses via DM on Instagram or email us at [email protected] or through our Band App if you are already an ADHD Sleuths member!
                                                    • 47 min

                                                    About ADHD Mom Docs

                                                    From the publisher's feed

                                                    The ADHD Mom Docs Podcast is a podcast for moms who want to learn practical, updated strategies to help support themselves, their child or teen or spouse with ADHD.