ADHD Coaching

What is an ADHD Coach?

ADHD Coaches are, first and foremost, trained coaches who endorse and accept the coaching paradigm of the International Coach Federation (ICF), and who additionally have specific training and expertise in coaching people and/or groups affected by ADHD.

What is ADHD Coaching?

ADHD Coaching addresses the specific needs and aspirations of the individual being coached. Unlike other forms of coaching, however, ADHD Coaching also addresses the specific needs of clients who have ADHD or ADHD-like symptoms. It is a supportive, collaborative, goal-oriented process.

Because ADHD Coaching specifically addresses the needs of people affected by ADHD, it is a seamless blend of three distinct elements, each employed by the coach as needed:

  • Coaching: Similar to other forms of coaching - like life coaching or executive coaching - ADHD coaching is client-centered, client-driven, and confidential. ADHD Coaches regard the client as an intact, creative, and resourceful person, and approach the coaching through an ADHD-informed lens. ADHD coaches facilitate the client’s actions toward self-awareness and the identification and achievement of the client’s self-identified goals, providing structure and accountability as needed.

  • Skills Coaching:  The ADHD coach and client collaborate to develop conscious awareness of the client’s strengths and challenges.  Leveraging that awareness, the coach supports the client in creating systems and strategies tailored to the client’s needs and to strengthen the client’s ability to manage the pragmatic aspects of life.

  • Education: The coach helps to educate the client about ADHD and how it affects them across a lifetime.  The coach may also provide information regarding tools, resources, and referrals specific to ADHD (or related to ADHD), as well as research-based information relevant to the client’s needs and interests. 

Here are some links to additional resources that can help you better understand both how an ADHD coach can help you and how to find the right coach for you:

  • TotallyADD's helpful videos offer good information on the benefits of ADHD coaching

  • ADDitude Magazine has an informative article that includes good questions to ask a prospective coach, and WebMD has a similar article.

  • CHADD published a detailed article on ADHD coaching and also provides it as a downloadable fact sheet

  • The ADD Coaching Academy has a blog post describing how ADHD coaching is different from "life coaching"

What does research tell us about ADHD Coaching?

A recent review of research on ADHD coaching indicates that ADHD coaching contributes positively to improved functioning in individuals with ADHD across the age span.  Numerous, varied studies examined diverse outcomes of coaching for ADHD, and their findings showed that ADHD coaching can improve ADHD symptoms, executive functioning related behaviors, self-esteem, well-being and quality of life.  Learn more about ADHD Coaching research.

Looking for an ADHD coach?

You’ve come to the right place.

First, search ACO’s Directory of ADHD Coaches, find a few coaches that look like they may be a good fit, and connect with them to learn more about their qualifications and their approach. Many coaches offer free introductory sessions, and many coach virtually by phone or video. Connecting with the right coach is crucial. Ask questions. Be informed. Set clear goals. And take action.