Connections and Psychology & Counseling Host ADHD and Related Concerns Conference
Hattiesburg Clinic Connections and Hattiesburg Clinic Psychology & Counseling recently hosted the 21st Annual ADHD and Related Concerns Conference at Lake Terrace Convention Center in Hattiesburg. The mission of the conference is to educate and inspire the community to better diagnose, treat and care for those with ADHD and coexisting disorders.
The event provided a platform for experts, researchers, educators and advocates to share knowledge, insights and advancements in the field of ADHD. From the latest research findings to innovative interventions and educational strategies, the conference covered a wide array of topics aimed at enhancing understanding and support for individuals with ADHD and related concerns.
Jonathan W. Shook, MD, a physician with Hattiesburg Clinic Connections, stressed the importance of the conference and its impact on the community.
“The conference has once again proven to be a successful event. The depth of knowledge shared here, combined with the passion of the speakers and participants, truly reflects our collective commitment to improving the lives of those with ADHD and related concerns,” Dr. Shook said. “This conference is not just about learning; it’s about inspiring real change in how we approach diagnosis and treatment.”
Sharon Saline, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist, author and speaker with a specialization in ADHD, learning differences and mental health challenges, was one of two keynote speakers for the conference. She spoke to attendees on various aspects of ADHD and related concerns, shedding light on topics such as effective strategies for managing anxiety, improving executive functions, navigating the educational landscape, fostering healthy relationships and promoting self-advocacy.
The second keynote speaker was Larry Calhoun, MEd, with Kayleigh Hudson, BS. Calhoun is the Division Director of the Office of Healthy Schools, Mississippi Department of Education. He and Hudson spoke on the Move to Learn program, which promotes an active and healthy lifestyle for students throughout Mississippi.
In addition to ADHD, the conference also focused on coexisting conditions, including dyslexia, autism, learning disorders and behavioral disorders. The conference provided a platform for sharing innovative approaches to managing symptoms and improving outcomes for individuals affected by these conditions. From evidence-based interventions such as behavioral therapy and medication management to emerging technologies like virtual reality and digital therapeutics, attendees gained insights into the diverse strategies available for supporting individuals with ADHD and coexisting conditions.
Cena Holifield, PhD, CALT-QI, is the executive director of Dynamic Dyslexia Design – The 3D School, in Petal, Miss., where she advocates for education and support for children with dyslexia.
“Addressing dyslexia and other concerns within the context of this conference is a powerful reminder that learning disorders do not exist in isolation,” Dr. Holifield said. “The shared expertise and innovative strategies discussed here are helping to break down the barriers that have traditionally hindered the success of those with dyslexia, autism and other conditions.”
By bringing together experts in the field, the conference contributed to a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and related concerns and the importance of adopting a comprehensive and compassionate approach to support their diverse needs.
For more information on the services provided at Hattiesburg Clinic Connections and Hattiesburg Clinic Psychology & Counseling, please visit us online at www.hattiesburgclinic.com.
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About Hattiesburg Clinic Connections:
Hattiesburg Clinic Connections serves as a regional resource center for individuals who experience attention problems, learning differences, behavioral concerns or emotional difficulties. The team at Connections uses evidence-informed guidelines and standard-of-care practices to help improve the lives of people with conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, anxiety, depression, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and autism spectrum disorder. Our providers are dedicated to helping individuals and families function in such a way that each person reaches their fullest potential.
About Hattiesburg Clinic Psychology & Counseling:
Hattiesburg Clinic Psychology & Counseling offers a broad range of outpatient services, including research-based counseling and comprehensive psychological assessments. Our team of licensed and credentialed professionals collaborates with your medical provider to ensure continuity of care.
Our mission is to provide a caring and respectful environment for individuals of all ages, from preschool through senior adults, and families who are struggling with behavioral or emotional concerns, transitions, decisions or crises.
About Hattiesburg Clinic:
Hattiesburg Clinic is Mississippi’s largest privately-owned, multispecialty clinic. More than 60 years after its beginning, the clinic has grown to over 450 physicians and providers, caring for patients in more than 17 counties in South Mississippi. Along with over 2,500 professional staff employees, these physicians and providers come together for a common purpose, to serve the over 500,000 community members who live and work in South Mississippi every day.
