We are your group for growth.

Happy Flamingos dancing and being silly together. They are comfortable in the group.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the “adhd SOCIAL HUB”?

The adhd SOCIAL HUB is an organized, professionally led service that provides non-clinical group ADHD (as well as those who also have autism, sometimes referred to as AuDHD) support for adults in the Metro Vancouver area. People can simply click on our calendar of events and show up. We offer support, skills and coaching groups and social events, both in-person and online for folks who identify as being neurodivergent or simply want to learn more or make friends.

Why should I consider attending an event?

Because life can sometimes feel hard when you are constantly misunderstood. The overwhelming feedback we receive is that “It is such a relief to be around others who understand and to not feel pressured to act a certain way”. We also hear a lot of “I just feel [then they make a big relaxing sigh sound and gesture]”

We know that social supports are good for our health and well being, science backs this up. So, why not come check us out? It’s fun!

What should I expect during/from attending a support group?

Support groups are a great way to shed away shame you may be feeling with being neurodivergent, and start to gain self-acceptance. These groups focus on shared experiences that allow us to better understand ADHD/ AuDHD, how it shows up, and begin to feel less misunderstood. They are facilitated with community, acceptance, and connection in mind.

Support groups are a great place to start if you are in the beginning stages of your ADHD /AuDHD journey, or just looking to feel less alone. They are always low pressure, you can have your camera on or off, speak or don’t speak, you do you! You are guaranteed to learn something even if you are just listening. Come to a group and find out for yourself. Who wouldn’t want to spend time with super kind, supportive people, who share similar experiences. Thoughtful insights, laughter, smiles…our adult ADHD / AuDHD support groups have it all!


What is group coaching?

Group coaching sessions are more structured and outcome driven than support groups, in which the facilitation focuses more on connection and shared experiences. Support groups are thoughtfully and intentionally guided and can feel casual in nature. In contrast, coaching groups are about gaining self-understanding and moving forward towards change, so they tend to feel more structured and goal oriented.

If you are ready to add strategies to better manage your neurodiversity, both coaching and skill building groups are a good match for you. Each session focuses on a specific ADHD topic where we explore challenges and solutions in depth. Short learning components are followed by group coaching where thoughtful, intentional questions are asked rather than advice or lectures being given. Each person comes up with their own answers. You will gain clarity, learn what works for your brain and leave with small, realistic, actionable steps every class, that support you in the change that you want. Expect some group teaching, small group discussions, and class coaching, all in a community of acceptance, support, and understanding. With regular coaching and skills work you will gain a greater understanding of yourself, how your ADHD impacts you, and what you can do to best support yourself. Don’t want to turn your camera on during an online class? No problem. Tune into what your capacity is that day. Your comfort is always a priority.

*all group coaching classes have a size limit of 10 or less


You are a Metro Vancouver (BC, Canada) based group, am I welcome (and will I feel welcome) at the online groups if I live elsewhere? If I am visiting Vancouver can I attend the in person events?

YES, YES, and YES! We have people from all over the world find us and join our sessions. This adds great richness and depth to our conversations. If you are visiting our city we would be happy to have you attend an in-person session. It is a fabulous way to meet some locals as well! If you are a kind person, you are welcome here 💛

Do I need to have an ADHD or Autism diagnosis to attend? I am just looking to learn more about neurodiversity and be in the company of non-judgemental, supportive people.


No
, absolutely not, but we do talk about ADHD and autism at our education and support groups. At our social events we simply enjoy participating in fun activities with people who identify as having ADHD, being autistic, neurodiverse, or are advocates. Many times we encourage you to bring another good human with you 🙃 We aren’t always so serious and we enjoy being in community with others who “get us” and appreciate us. It a wonderful and rare thing to meet new people and not feel any pressure to “mask”. This is where genuine friendships have the opportunity to form and where we have the chance to learn from each other.

Why aren’t there a lot of pictures/videos of people?

Privacy!
I value this greatly, as it is a rarity nowadays. We understand that new people want to “see” what they are getting, but lets face it, pictures lie and does anyone really like being forced to check a blanket consent only to become a marketing tool? You will always be clearly asked for permission to use any images/videos of you. So, like everyone else here, you will have to take the leap and come check us out. Don’t worry, we are a friendly crowd and we think you will find the jump was worth it :) Feel free to take a look at our past events page. Again, all pics are either from the event vendors themselves if you see group photos or, if it is our group, people have been asked for permission and/or identifying features have been blurred out. Thanks for understanding! At the adhd SOCIAL HUB we do not compromise your privacy. If you are curious to get a sense of Sonia’s personality you can look at the videos on our past events page or check out our social media pages (links at the bottom).

How much do your events cost?

We try to keep our group events as low cost as possible, often in the $25-$30 range for a 1.5-2 hour session. We are not a non-profit or charity, so we do not receive government support, but do our best to keep things as cost effective as we can.

Ticketed events hosted with vendors vary in price. For example, a soccer game might have a different price than a music event. The adhd SOCIAL HUB does not make profit off partner events and we choose companies that are advocates of neurodiversity. These are offered to support businesses in our community, foster in-person social connections, have fun, and practice our ADHD management skills. I try to get us group rates whenever possible.

We provide receipts for every purchase made. Some work places provide a certain amount per year per employee to be spent on well being as they choose if proof of purchase is submitted. You can inquire if your company offers this.

If you are currently experiencing financial barriers at this time please reach out directly to Sonia so that she can make sure you are able to attend our events.

I have an event idea/request I would like to see happen or would like to share/host a session at the adhd SOCIAL HUB. Can we chat?

Yes please! I am open to ideas, suggestions, and collaborations. Although I can not make all things happen, if your ask is aligned with our values and mission, if it is free or at low cost for participants, and there is enough interest from the group, I will do my best fulfill your request. I am excited to hear and try out your creative ideas and/or support you hosting an event where you can share your special interest with our community. Don’t hesitate to reach out!

Can I solicit my business as a participant at events and/or contact people afterwards to do so?

NOPE
. Do not do this. This is not a space for sales, it is a space for connection 💛 This rule is enforced and could lead to removal from the group.

If you are interested in collaborating or being listed as a resource please be transparent and reach out to schedule a conversation. We are more than happy to support our ADHD advocates. At the hub our culture is clear, kind, and honest communication. That is all we ask 🙂 Thank you for your understanding.

Where do the events and education happen?

Both online and in-person at various locations in the Metro Vancouver area. You can look at our past events page to get a general understanding of where we meet.

Is this a substitute for therapy or medical advice?

No. Formal supports play an important role in personal health care. Our group is what is considered “informal support”. For example, a crisis line, a friend, or a even a pet, is considered an informal support; whereas health professionals, such as medical doctors or psychologists are examples of “formal supports”. Having a combination of both informal and formal supports is a great way for people to care for their health and well being.

Do you offer one-on-one coaching?

Yes, we offer individualized coaching. Coaching is often described as being a clarifying conversation that supports individuals in moving forward with change that is best suited for them. A coach does not give advice, but rather asks deep questions to allow the client to better understand themselves, gain new awareness and realizations they might not have noticed before, and create a plan to move forward in pursuing their needs and wants in a way that works best for them.

We have ICF certified coaches who specialize in ADHD, AuDHD, and neurodiversity in general. We work both in-person and online. Click here to access our booking calendar. Pricing is $150 for one hour. We always provide invoices/receipts for you to submit, as many companies now offer employees wellness benefits. Please note, if your need for coaching is high and the price is a barrier for you please contact me directly and we will collaboratively find a way to support you.

How can I verify that a coach has ICF credentialing?

There are two places, both are on the ICF website (international coaching federation). This can be confusing, so I will be transparent. One lists all ICF certified coaches and the other, the page that the ICF promotes, coaches must pay to be on.

All coaches who have done the required training, exams and have completed the appropriate continuing education credits can be found on the ICF’s “verify a coach” link located under credentialing on their website. Whereas the ICF’s “credentialed coach finder” only lists coaches who pay extra fees for promotion and membership privileges.

In summary, use the “verify a coach” tool to get the accurate information as to whether or not a coach is certified by the ICF.

I still have more questions, can I talk to you?


Absolutely.
We are always happy to clarify things or answer any questions. Send us an email at questions@adhdsocialhub.ca You can also sign up for our newsletter to stay informed. Don’t forget to check out our blog and calendar regularly for updates.