

She treated ADHD for years — then found out she had it, too (Dr. Nerissa Bauer’s story)
Sep 30, 2025
Dr. Nerissa Bauer, a behavioral pediatrician and CEO of Let's Talk Kids Health, shares her journey from treating ADHD to discovering she has it herself. She discusses the burnout she experienced in academia and the surprising self-reflection prompted by her son's ADHD. Nerissa reveals how her diagnosis reshaped her approach to patient care with increased empathy and honesty. She also introduces her course, Teach Me ADHD, designed to help families navigate ADHD together with practical strategies and insights.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Burnout Revealed Hidden Struggles
- Dr. Nerissa Bauer left academia due to burnout and discovered loss of structure hit her hard after stepping away.
- She lost routines like getting out on time and managing finances, which revealed deeper struggles.
Evaluation Felt Vulnerable But Supportive
- Dr. Bauer described seeking the psychologist who evaluated her son and undergoing a half-day ADHD test.
- She felt vulnerable and feared being 'found out' but the evaluator was kind and supportive.
Diagnosis Brings Grief And Relief
- Receiving a diagnosis triggered grief for years lost and relief at clarity.
- Dr. Bauer realized earlier treatment might have changed many life outcomes.