Coaching is an intervention that complements medication and other non-pharmacologic alternatives. As a specialty within the broader field of coaching, ADHD coaching is a practical intervention that specifically targets the core impairments of ADHD such as planning, time management, goal setting, organization and problem solving.
What is ADHD Coaching?
ADHD coaches work collaboratively with their clients who have ADHD or ADHD-like symptoms to address specific needs and personal goals. The ADHD coaching program at Psych Connect acknowledges the biological underpinnings of the disorder in addressing the core symptoms of ADHD (inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity); however, coaching addresses the academic, vocational, emotional and interpersonal life difficulties that are a result of these symptoms and helps clients find ways to overcome these challenges. Through individualized support, coaches help individuals concentrate on where they are now, where they want to be and how they can get there.
A coach helps people with ADHD carry out the practical activities of daily life in an organized, goal-oriented and timely fashion. In close partnership, an ADHD coach helps the client learn practical skills and initiate change in his or her daily life.
A coach may help an adult with ADHD:
- maintain focus to achieve identified goals
- translate abstract goals into concrete actions
- build motivation and learn to find ways to use concrete and abstract rewards effectively
Coaches help individuals with ADHD learn how the symptoms of ADHD play out in their daily lives. Coaches primarily ask questions to help the client reflect and discover their own answers to these questions.
The following are examples of questions coaches may ask:
- What changes do you want to make in your daily life?
- What small steps can you take today in the direction of your goals?
- How can you motivate yourself to take action towards this goal?
- When must this action be completed?
- What steps have you taken already, and when will you take the remaining steps?
- How will you evaluate the impact of your plan?
Coaches support clients by providing encouragement, feedback and practical suggestions to address specific challenges as well by supporting them and holding them accountable for following through on their goals. They may offer reminders or suggest time management methods. Regular meetings and check-ins are an essential part of the coaching process. At Psych Connect, coaches also support the social-emotional wellbeing of their clients. This is done through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
How does it work?
ADHD Coaching for adults is a one-to-one, confidential and individualised development process. It is most efficient with one-hour sessions taking place every week, as such frequency is required for in-depth changes. Each session is pragmatic and driven by the client’s objectives. These sessions can be conducted in person or onlinedepending on the client’s preference. However, before the coaching process begins, the client and the coach should have an initial session that addresses issues such as client needs.