How to choose an ADHD coach

Finding the right ADHD coach is a significant step toward understanding and managing your symptoms. This guide on how to choose an ADHD coach will help you make an informed decision on selecting the right person for your needs:

Identify your specific needs and goals

• Before you start your search, take some time to reflect on your specific needs and goals for coaching.
• What areas of your life do you want to focus on? What challenges are you hoping to address?
• Identifying your needs will help you find a coach with relevant experience and expertise. For example, if you’re struggling with career challenges, you might seek a coach with a background in career development or executive coaching.

Specialised ADHD training is essential

• Ensure your coach has completed substantial, dedicated ADHD coach training (at least 100 hours over several months). A weekend course is simply not enough.
• Look for coaches trained by reputable organisations like the ADD Coach Academy (ADDCA), the leader in the field.

Professional credentials matter

• Beyond ADHD-specific training, your coach should hold credentials from recognised bodies such as ADHD Coach Organization (ACO) or the Professional Association of ADHD Coaches (PAAC).

Seek personal or professional understanding of ADHD

• Ideally, your coach will have first-hand experience with ADHD, either personally or professionally. This ensures a deeper understanding of the complexities of ADHD beyond surface-level knowledge.
• Coaches with personal or family experience with ADHD can offer unique empathy and insight.
• Coaches who stay updated with the latest research and science in ADHD bring current knowledge and fresh insights, and demonstrate a commitment to best practices.

Personalised strategies are key

• Avoid coaches who offer a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach.
• Your coach should collaborate with you to develop personalised strategies based on your unique strengths, values, needs and aspirations.

Find a coaching style that resonates

• Consider your preferred coaching style. Do you respond better to a direct, supportive, challenging or collaborative approach?
• Choose a coach whose communication style and values align with your own.

The importance of a good fit

• Beyond credentials and experience, it’s essential to find a coach who is a good fit for your personality and learning style.
• Trust your gut feeling. Choose a coach who you feel comfortable with, who understands your needs and who you believe can help you achieve your goals.

References and testimonials provide valuable insights

• Personal recommendations are ideal. If unavailable, seek out testimonials to gain insight into the coach’s approach and effectiveness.

Initial discovery calls are crucial

• Schedule consultations with multiple coaches to assess compatibility.
• Ask yourself: do I feel heard and understood? Is there a sense of genuine connection and trust?

Practical considerations

• Ensure the coach’s schedule aligns with yours.
• Determine the frequency and duration of the sessions. Ask whether they provide support between sessions.
• Consider your budget and enquire about packages or sliding scale fees.
• Does their schedule align with yours? How often will you meet and for how long?
• Most coaches offer online sessions. If you prefer to meet in-person, research local options.