Introduction to ADHD Coaching
Answers to Some Commonly Asked Questions about ADHD Coaching
An introduction to ADHD coaching with answers to questions about what an ADHD coach can do and how it differs from therapy.
Questions Regarding ADHD Coaching
ADHD coaching has become a rapidly increasing business and one I recommend. I worked as an ADHD coach for a while and developed these answers to some commonly asked questions about coaching. Like any strategy, it is not a magic bullet or the answer to all the problems for a person with ADHD. However, it can be an effective part of a multi-modal program.
What is ADHD Coaching? What does an ADHD Coach do?
ADHD coaching is quickly becoming recognized as an integral part of the treatment and management of ADHD. ADHD coaching is a partnership designed to help individuals manage the deficits and strengthen the assets that ADHD can cause. Coaches help people with ADHD improve their quality of life through education, understanding, and support.
- ADHD Coaching is an ongoing relationship that focuses on the client taking action toward the realization of their vision, goals or desires.
- ADHD Coaching uses a process of inquiry to examine the concepts of identity, structure and power in a Client's Life and to discover ways in which a client can maximize strengths and talents, function optimally with a disability, and be responsible for actions or lack of action.
- ADHD Coaching provides clients with structure, support, skills and strategies.
What does an ADHD Coach do?
ADHD coaches help clients develop specific goals and solutions to problems and challenges in their life. Once goals are set, the coach helps clients develop the skills and strategies to reach these goals. ADHD coaches also help motivate and empower clients. Coaching is proactive-focusing less on the past and more on the present and future.
In what specific areas do most people with ADHD need help?
ADHD affects people in a variety of ways. The following is just a sample of some of the issues that would be dealt with by ADHD coaches and their clients: time-management, prioritizing, setting realistic goals, follow through and task completion, developing self-awareness, improving relationships, developing focus and direction, reducing procrastination, understanding strengths and weaknesses, getting motivated and dealing with failures, and building structure and organizational skills.
Is ADHD coaching designed to take the place of therapy?
No, coaching is not therapy. Coaches and therapists are both in the profession of helping people-but they help in different ways. The best analogy is by an unknown author:
If a person needs help learning how to ride a bike:
- A therapist will explore your fears about riding a bike.
- A consultant will tell you how to ride a bike.
- A mentor will show you how to ride a bike.
- A coach, when you decide you want to ride a bike, will run along beside you to provide support.
Why does a person with ADHD need a coach?
Not all people with ADHD do need a coach. There are several things you should do before hiring a coach such as educating yourself about ADHD and consulting with a psychiatrist. But after you have done that and you still find yourself spending hours and days playing solitaire instead of doing the dishes, paying bills, or doing your paperwork it is time to consider hiring a coach.
What if I suspect the problem is ADHD but it hasn't been diagnosed yet?
It is my professional opinion that a diagnosing the problem is essential before going forward with any treatment. Several illnesses look very similar to ADHD but are medical conditions that need different treatment. It is best to rule these out and know exactly what you are dealing with before trying any treatment.
Where can I find an ADHD coach?
Many coaches are listed in the phone book. But you can also check with ADDA and CHAAD-both organizations have lists of coaches all over the country. Don't despair if there is not a coach in your area. Many coaches are able to work effectively using a combination of email and telephone.
