ADHD Conference Features National Experts

An OCC graduate has left a lasting legacy with the annual Michael Golds Conference, founded in 2000 to create awareness about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

This year’s conference features nationally recognized experts Chris Dendy and Robert Dendy as keynote speakers to discuss the “Impact of ADHD and Executive Function Deficits on Academic Performance and Behavior.” In addition, David Giwerc, founder and president of the ADD Coach Academy, will present on a coach approach to empowering individuals with ADHD.

Conference registration begins at 8 a.m. and the program is 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, September 27, at the Orchard Ridge campus. Online registration is $65 and will be accepted through 5 p.m., Monday, September 23. Registration at the door is $75 and $30 for students with a student ID. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available for educators, school psychologists and social workers.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a brain condition that makes it challenging for children to concentrate and has a number of other symptoms such as impulsivity and hyperactivity. ADHD is often misunderstood by teachers, parents and those who are diagnosed. About 9.5%, or 5.4 million children ages 4-17, have been diagnosed with ADHD as of 2007, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Michael Golds, an OCC and Eastern Michigan University graduate who excelled academically despite his ADHD diagnosis, was killed in an accident shortly before he was to enter graduate school. His parents created the conference in his honor. The conference, in its 12^th year, is a partnership between OCC, Eastern Michigan University and Eastern Oakland County CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

“Michael’s parents were devastated by the loss of their son and created this conference to help people who struggle with ADHD,” said Mary Jo Schuster, an OCC counselor who knew Golds.

The conference features experts on ADHD to help educate, create awareness and help those who struggle with the disorder. It offers 16 presentations on topics including trouble shooting strategies for student success, parenting kids from early adolescence to young adulthood, helping couples with ADHD, treating ADHD in children and adolescents, ADHD and autism spectrum disorders, using technology to enhance success in college, ADHD and cyber addictions, bridging the medical and educational divide, pharmacological treatments, productivity and time management. For a complete schedule of speakers and sessions visit the event website.

For more information, contact Tammy Schluchter at mgoldsconf@gmail.com or at (248) 731-6747.