Here at FLOWN we like to think we know a little about coaching, with our in-house team of coaches made up of everything from breathing experts to mindfulness mavericks.
But an ADHD coach is a little different.
Let's take a look at what exactly an ADHD coach is, what they do, how much they cost, and if this might be right for you.
What is an ADHD Coach?
Life coaching is when a trained person supports, encourages and holds another person accountable to achieve their goals in their work and/or personal life.
An ADHD coach does exactly that, but they are trained and know the specific effects of ADHD on people. They will work with you to manage your symptoms and help you develop actionable strategies specific to your ADHD experience.
The element of support and responsibility you get when another person works with you on these things can make all the difference when it comes to moving forward with a new goal.
What does an ADHD coach do?
ADHD coaches focus on practical solutions for managing ADHD.
As opposed to therapy that examines your history to find peace within you in the present. An ADHD coach focuses on your current actions, your goals, and fulfilling your potential in the future.
A coaching relationship often begins with an introductory session, where the coach gets to know you and listens to areas of your life that you would like to work on.
You can ask your ADHD coach to help you focus on areas of your life, goals, or habits like:
the workplace
friendship and social life
Family
aspirations
A specific task, like writing a book
self-compassion
delay
From there, they help you develop an actionable plan to reach your goals, always thinking about how your ADHD may be challenging you and how you can deal with it.
Read our complete guide to ADHD in the workplace
A good coach should have a great toolkit of strategies and techniques to help you do this. Trainers often use methods such as:
images and visualization
mindfulness
gratitude
prioritization
set goals
motivational techniques
organizational skills
Confidence and self-esteem exercises
An ADHD coach focuses on your current actions, your goals, and fulfilling your potential in the future.
ADHD coaching relationships typically consist of a one-hour session once a week or two weeks, with specific assignments to try outside of the session.
(Although each trainer has their own working practices.)
You would then discuss how that task went in the next session so you understand where you are struggling and succeeding. Over time, you would continue to adjust the plan to build on your strengths and address your weaknesses.
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Is ADHD Training Worth It?
An ADHD coach is designed to help you discover how your ADHD is affecting you as an individual and what specific routines, rituals, and ways of working will help you succeed.
Over time, ADHD training should result in:
improved focus
execute plans to completion
Being able to break goals down into concrete actions
Find the motivation you need to achieve your goals
The goal of ADHD coaching is that one day you won't need it anymore because you can independently apply everything you and your coach have learned about your ADHD to new goals.
Remember that finding an ADHD coach will not help you achieve your goals unless you are ready and willing to put in the effort and try the techniques your coach will teach you.
That's why finding the right coach is so important.
How do I find ADHD coaches in the UK?
The relationship and connection you have with your coach is critical to successfully achieving your goals. A good place to start looking for a trainer is the internet. So try looking for ADHD coaches in your area and make a list of the ones that interest you.
If you know other people with ADHD, reach out and see if anyone has used an ADHD coach and if there is anyone they would recommend.
You can also use ADHD coach directories to browse lists of coaches.Additude has a directory for ADHD coaches in the US and UK. If you live in the US, try usYour local chapter of CHADDthat you should know the trainers in your area.
If you are in the UK thenCertified ADHD Trainers in the UKare a group ofcertified by ADDCACoaches across the country specializing in ADHD.
(Read on to learn more about ADHD coaching qualifications)
Notice how much you feel the trainer is listening when you speak and whether the way he is phrasing things makes sense to you.
Once you've made your shortlist, be sure to speak with at least two or three trainers before making a decision. Most offer a free 15-30 minute introductory session where you can get a feel for the coaching style and see if it resonates with you.
Ask them about:
If they have received special ADHD training
How long have you been training?
If they have professional qualifications or accreditations
what they ask for
How long do you typically work with clients?
Just because someone has been an ADHD coach for 10 years and has a long list of qualifications doesn't mean they're the right coach for you. Notice how much you feel the trainer is listening when you speak and whether the way he is phrasing things makes sense to you.
If you don't feel that connection with any of the trainers you speak to, try speaking to a few others!
If you make an effort upfront, you'll save yourself a pointless coaching relationship later.
Do you need to be accredited by a body like the International Federation of Coaches to be an ADHD coach?
Not UKand the USFrom a legal point of view, no formal training or qualification is requiredcall themselves ADHD coachesand accept paying customers.
However, that does not mean that there are no recognized qualifications.
The International Federation of Coaches or the ICFWith over 50,000 members, it is considered the world's leading coaching organization. ICF members are expected to follow certain standards and codes of ethics established by the ICF and have a continuous focus on learning and improvement.
What does this have to do with ADHD training?
Well, an ADHD coach needs to have the skills of a regular coach as well as ADHD specific knowledge and experience.
An ADD Coach Academy or ADDCAis recognized as the world leader in ADHD coaching qualifications and is fully accredited by the ICF.
There are too many acronyms for you to understand.
The main thing to remember is that your coach should have an ICF, ADDCA orother type of respected qualificationit is a good indicator of your ethical standards and competence. They've already gone through a rigorous process to get certified by these bodies, so you know you're in good hands.
Are ADHD coaches psychotherapists?
Not necessarily.
Because of the nature of the work, ADHD coaches tend to be individuals with a few different types of jobs. It may be a licensed mental health professional such as a therapist or counselor who also provides ADHD training.
But they could also be teachers, life coaches, or facilitators who have decided to explore ADHD coaching as part of their careers.
If you're just looking for help with depression, anxiety, or any other type of mental health support, an ADHD coach is probably not what you're looking for and one you should considerlooking for a therapist or counselorinstead of.
How much does an ADHD coach cost?
ADHD training usually lasts between 50 minutes and an hour. A trainer can charge between £50 and £200 per session in the UK or between $70 and $250 in the US.
For anyone who is quick with math, the cost of an ADHD coach can quickly add up. But there are ways to minimize the cost:
If you have a learning and development budget at work, ask if you can use it for your ADHD coach (if you have disclosed your condition or feel safe enough to do so).
In the US, you can claim your trainer fees as medical expenses for tax purposes as long as your doctor has prescribed ADHD training
Try asking coaches on your discovery call if they offer discounted rates for people on lower incomes.
In the UK, you can apply for financial aid throughstate program for access to work
Consider group coaching sessions or classes, which are often less expensive than individual coaching sessions
Finding the right ADHD coach can be a life-changing discovery
Once you've found a trainer you like, try getting a few sessions with them before committing to long-term packages. That way, if you feel like the relationship isn't working, you can always give up and find a new coach.
Sometimes your coach can question your assumptions and that's okay if you're uncomfortable, but you should always feel heard and respected.
Finding the right ADHD coach can be a game changer for many people with ADHD who are willing to learn about themselves, find new ways to manage their condition, and achieve their goals in the future.
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FAQs
Is an ADHD coach worth it? ›
“My ADHD coach helped me understand why I did certain things. She also helped me be kinder to myself, something that can be hard to do with ADHD,” she says. Miller adds that although coaching requires time and money, it's absolutely worth it. “It's truly life-changing,” she says.
What can an ADHD coach help with? ›ADHD coaches work with clients to create structures, support, skills, and strategies. Coaching assists clients with ADHD to stay focused on their goals, face obstacles, address core ADHD-related issues like time management, organization, and self-esteem, gain clarity and function more effectively.”
How to get ADHD coaching covered by insurance? ›Your insurance might cover ADHD coaching
If you have medical insurance, you could check whether your medical insurance will pay — even in part — for ADHD coaching. This can vary from one insurance to the next. Typically, you'll need a doctor to “prescribe” ADHD coaching for your insurance to cover it.
A therapist spends more time on the emotional aspects of having ADHD and can treat co-existing conditions such as mood disorders and anxiety. Coaches help clients develop skills and strategies to overcome executive function deficits such as planning, organizing, and time management.
Are ADHD coaches real? ›It is also possible to find licensed mental health professionals who have the background and training to work with multiple issues. ADHD coaches can have different educational and professional backgrounds and diverse knowledge about ADHD.
What habits help with ADHD? ›- Get enough sleep.
- Get enough nutrients.
- Eat every few hours.
- Participate in physical activities.
- Use a system to manage tasks.
- Reflect on your victories.
- Practice positive self-talk.
- Use money management software.
- Walking (at least 20 minutes)
- Playing.
- Gardening or other yard work.
- Hiking or backpacking.
- Reading.
- Outdoor sports.
- Fishing.
- Working with animals.
A few tips include: Be encouraging — one way to hinder progress for someone with ADHD is to be discouraging Be patient Focus on strengths, not challenges Prioritize effective communication Address specific problems and offer solutions Listen Encourage seeking help from a professional.”
How much is expert ADHD coaching? ›Good behavioral interventions price most people out: Quality ADHD coaching costs $300-600+/mo. This prices out, well, the people who need it most.
How do I choose a good coach? ›Ask each coach about his or her experience, skills and qualifications, and request at least two references. Coaching is an important relationship, so look for a personal connection between you and the coach you choose. Confirm credibility. Research each coach's training, professional memberships and credentials.
What type of professional should I see for ADHD? ›
There are several types of professionals who typically diagnose ADHD. These include: physicians (especially psychiatrists, pediatricians, neurologists), psychologists, social workers, nurse practitioners, and other licensed counselors or therapists (e.g. professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, etc.).
Can I use my HSA for ADHD coaching? ›No, unfortunately coaching is not covered under insurance at this time. Can I use my HSA or FSA account to cover coaching costs? Our clients have reported that using their invoice from CWB has allowed them to be reimbursed by their HSA or FSA given that they have an ADHD diagnosis. This is not guaranteed.
Is ADHD assessment tax deductible? ›As we mentioned earlier- yes! ADHD does qualify as a disability, provided that the impairment is severe enough. Many cases of ADHD are mild or moderate in nature.
Is ADHD considered to be a disability? ›Yes. Whether you view attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as neurological — affecting how the brain concentrates or thinks — or consider ADHD as a disability that impacts working, there is no question that the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) covers individuals with ADHD.
What is ADHD coaching for adults? ›An ADHD coach is a trained professional who helps you come up with ways to handle the responsibilities and activities made harder by your ADHD symptoms. Coaching is a tool you can use with medications and other ADHD treatments to help you get organized and reach your goals.
Is ADHD therapy enough? ›Behavior therapy is an effective treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that can improve a child's behavior, self-control, and self-esteem.
Is coaching better than Counselling? ›Both counseling and coaching provide solutions to get you closer to the life you want to be living. Some say that counselors work on the “why” of the problem, whereas coaching focuses on the “how” to get out of the problem; they also say that counselors will look at the past and coaches will look at the future.
Who is the world expert on ADHD? ›Welcome to the official website of Russell A. Barkley, Ph. D., an internationally recognized authority on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD/ADD) in children & adults who has dedicated his career to widely disseminating science-based information about ADHD.
Can you train your ADHD? ›Based on the science of neuroplasticity, it's thought that practicing certain tasks and skills can rewire the brain to improve memory or attention. Those with ADHD may be able to improve ADHD characteristics through brain training, but it's still best to support with other treatments.
Are ADHD tests real? ›ADHD screening helps doctors identify children or adults with ADHD. There is no single test that doctors can use to diagnose ADHD. Instead, they use a combination of interviews and written tests to identify behaviors that are symptoms of ADHD.
What motivates an ADHD person? ›
an interest-based nervous system (motivated by what's compelling enough to get activated). He refers to the five motivating factors with the acronym INCUP: interest, novelty, challenge, urgency, and passion.
What natural things help with ADHD focus? ›Add a Daily Dose of Nuts and Chocolate
Nuts and seeds are good sources of the antioxidant vitamin E, which has been linked in some studies to less cognitive decline as you age. Dark chocolate also has other powerful antioxidant properties, and it contains natural stimulants like caffeine, which can enhance focus.
Adults with ADHD may find it difficult to focus and prioritize, leading to missed deadlines and forgotten meetings or social plans. The inability to control impulses can range from impatience waiting in line or driving in traffic to mood swings and outbursts of anger.
What age does ADHD peak? ›The symptoms may peak in severity when the child is seven to eight years of age, after which they often begin to decline. By the adolescent years, the hyperactive symptoms may be less noticeable, although ADHD can continue to be present.
What does ADHD boredom feel like? ›ADHD boredom intolerance can cause you to seek stimulation when faced with boring activities. You may find yourself acting out, drifting off in your thoughts, or getting bored much more quickly than your peers. And when you get bored, you may have more trouble stimulating your brain and getting motivated again.
What are 3 ways to treat ADHD? ›- Parent training in behavior management;
- Behavioral interventions in the classroom;
- Peer interventions that focus on behavior; and.
- Organizational skills training.
- Encourage professional help.
- Don't parent.
- Emphasize strengths.
- Be patient.
- Prioritize communication.
- Address specific problems.
- Listen to them.
- Let it go.
Don't Dismiss Their Condition
One of the things you shouldn't say to someone with ADHD is that it's in their head, they're lazy, or if they learn to focus that they can get their work done. By saying these things, you're dismissing their condition and the challenges they deal with daily.
Alternative treatments for ADHD include elimination diets, omega-3 supplements, parent training, exercise, yoga, meditation, neurofeedback, and memory training.
Is coaching worth the cost? ›While you can certainly work toward your goals on your own, there are several reasons why paying for a coach is worth the money. Working with a qualified coach can: Help you discover what's holding you back and find the motivation to move forward. Challenge your assumptions; help you find truth and meaning.
How much does it cost to get evaluated for ADHD? ›
So, how much does an ADHD evaluation cost? The minimal average price is $295-$375 and a comprehensive evaluation could run you $3,700-$4,500. In this article, we will go over the cost of an ADHD evaluation, factors that can influence the cost, and what to expect during an ADHD evaluation.
How much does individual coaching cost? ›Most life coaches charge somewhere between $75 and $200 per hour. However, you can find coaches who fall outside of that range.
How much does a good coach cost? ›How much does career coaching cost? Generally, career coaches charge anywhere from $50 to $250 per hour. This varies depending on a few factors, including experience, length of session, and whether they're certified by an independent entity like the International Coach Federation (ICF).
How do I know if I need a coach? ›If you're feeling lost in your to-do list, unable to focus, and challenged in making a plan of attack on how to get things done, a coach can help you sort priorities and get focused, allowing you to feel more in control.
What do I need most from a coach? ›- A clear training plan. This plan should be built for you and your schedule, goals, time, etc. ...
- Support. Your coach is there to support you and hold you accountable. ...
- Credentials. ...
- Motivation. ...
- Success.
If you use your HSA for an expense other than eligible medical expenses you can subject yourself to significant IRS penalties. Inappropriate use of your HSA funds may also leave you without money to pay for your eligible medical expenses in the future.
Is coaching covered by FSA? ›Coaching is often covered under employers' professional development benefits and/or under FSA/HSA accounts (wellness). If you work for yourself, coaching is often tax-deductible.
Is ADHD a disability when applying for scholarships? ›Students with ADHD, or other learning disabilities, can find many scholarship and grant programs dedicated to helping them achieve their goals of a college education.
How much do you get for ADHD disability tax credit? ›People with ADHD could be eligible for a tax credit of up to $50,000 from the CRA. These credits can also be given retroactively. Call today for your free, no-obligation assessment.
Does ADHD count as a permanent disability? ›12 Since persistent functional impairments such as poor organizational and time management skills, difficulty with note-taking, reading comprehension & written expression constitute a permanent disability, ADHD clearly qualifies as such.
How do you prove disability for ADHD? ›
- Marked or severe impairment in age-appropriate cognitive/communication function; and/or.
- Marked or severe impairment in age-appropriate social functioning; and/or.
- Marked or severe impairment in age-appropriate personal functioning.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental health condition. While people may use different terms for ADHD, technically it does fall into the broad category of “mental illness.”
Can you get Social Security for ADHD? ›In past decades, adults with ADHD were ineligible to receive disability benefits. Fortunately, today, adults with ADHD symptoms that are considered disabling by the Social Security Administration (SSA) may be eligible to receive benefits from the federal government.
Can adults with ADHD claim benefits? ›They must prove that there is a reason why any condition would make someone higher risk. There are benefits available which you may qualify for, however a diagnosis of ADHD by itself does not automatically entitle you to receive them.
Is ADHD coaching tax deductible? ›In most cases, tutoring expenses are not a federal tax deductible item. There is an exception to this, for special education tutoring. Parents of children with learning disabilities such as dyslexia or ADHD may deduct tutoring expenses for their special needs child from their federal income tax, according to the IRS.
Is ADHD coaching covered by FSA? ›No, unfortunately coaching is not covered under insurance at this time. Can I use my HSA or FSA account to cover coaching costs? Our clients have reported that using their invoice from CWB has allowed them to be reimbursed by their HSA or FSA given that they have an ADHD diagnosis. This is not guaranteed.
What type of schooling is best for ADHD? ›Hands-On Learning
Children with ADHD do much better using a hands-on approach to learning, Collins says. To ask a child with ADHD to sit and listen for hours will probably not work. So instead, look for a school in which kids are actively engaged in learning by experience.
As of Feb 27, 2023, the average annual pay for an ADHD Coach in the United States is $75,497 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $36.30 an hour.
Is ADHD considered a disability by the IRS? ›ADHD is considered a disability by the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) as a condition that impacts someone's ability to be able to work full time.
How much is the disability tax credit for ADHD? ›People with ADHD could be eligible for a tax credit of up to $50,000 from the CRA. These credits can also be given retroactively. Call today for your free, no-obligation assessment.
Do colleges consider ADHD a disability? ›
How do you know if you need or qualify for accommodations? First, you need to have a documented disability. That could be ADHD, a learning disability, or any other medical, emotional, or physical condition that substantially limits one or more major life activities, including learning or concentration.
What is ADHD coaching like? ›What Is ADHD Coaching? It focuses on practical ways to deal with everyday tasks that might be tougher because of your disorder. The process is a lot like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of psychotherapy that works to change the way you react to situations.
Can I use HSA for ADHD? ›What mental health conditions can be treated with FSA or HSA funds? FSA and HSA funds can lower the costs of treatment for many mental health conditions, such as: Anxiety disorders. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Can you use HSA for done ADHD? ›Done accepts FSA and HSA payments. Members can use their HSA/FSA to cover a portion of the initial consultation or membership fee not covered by insurance reimbursement.
What environment is best for ADHD? ›Kids with ADHD are more likely to thrive in a structured environment because they often struggle with memory and focus. But don't confuse a controlled atmosphere with mere rigidity.
When does ADHD brain fully develop? ›The brain's frontal lobes, which are involved in ADHD, continue to mature until we reach age 35. In practical terms, this means that people with ADHD can expect some lessening of their symptoms over time. Many will not match the emotional maturity of a 21-year-old until their late 30's.
What does an ADHD classroom look like? ›Often fails to finish work in school or chores in the classroom. Often avoids or resists tasks that require sustained mental effort, including doing homework. Often loses homework assignments, books, jackets, backpacks, sports equipment.
Is coaching worth the money? ›While you can certainly work toward your goals on your own, there are several reasons why paying for a coach is worth the money. Working with a qualified coach can: Help you discover what's holding you back and find the motivation to move forward. Challenge your assumptions; help you find truth and meaning.
Can you get paid for ADHD? ›In past decades, adults with ADHD were ineligible to receive disability benefits. Fortunately, today, adults with ADHD symptoms that are considered disabling by the Social Security Administration (SSA) may be eligible to receive benefits from the federal government.
Can you get money from ADHD? ›Adults with ADHD can qualify for disability benefits but only in cases where they can prove that their ADHD prevents them from performing substantial gainful work activity. This can be difficult for adults with ADHD to prove.