Transitioning Young Adults with ADHD to Independence Without Them Feeling Lost with Greg Burnham

Apr 7, 2025

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Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of my book for FREE here: https://bit.ly/first_3chapters

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In this episode, Kate Brownfield sits down with Greg Burnham, MS, LMFT, and clinical director at Gembaboise.com, to discuss how alternative paths like gap programs can help young adults build confidence, develop life skills, and create a future that truly fits them.

Greg shares valuable knowledge on the different levels of "stuckness" young adults experience, the role parents play in this journey, and how to foster independence without forcing a rigid path. If you're a parent looking for alternative ways to support your child’s transition into adulthood, this episode is full of actionable advice.

Expect to Learn:

How can you recognize when a young adult is “stuck” and what level of support they need?
Traditional college paths aren’t the best fit for every neurodivergent young adult.
The benefits of gap programs in building confidence, independence, and real-world skills.
How parents can guide their child’s journey without unintentionally holding them back.
Focusing on the process, rather than just the outcome, leads to long-term success.

In Today’s Episode:

[01:17] - Meet Greg Burnham

[02:13] - What is a gap year?

[04:56] - How parents can help (or hinder) their child’s path to independence.

[07:41] - Why ADHD young adults struggle with life after high school and how to support them.

[13:26] - Identifying different levels of "stuckness" and knowing when intervention is needed.

[18:05] - What to do if your child fails in college and why it’s not the end of the world.

[20:09] - How gap programs provide structure and support.

[23:36] - Understanding the costs and insurance options.

[25:36] - How Gemba Boise helps young adults build confidence, independence, and community.

[28:12] - Why personalized paths lead to sustainable growth.

Connect with Greg Burnham:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gburnham/

Follow your Host Kate Brownfield:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-wedlock-brownfield-b0b139

Follow the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:

Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
Email: adhdkidscanthrive@yahoo.com