Do I need an ADHD coach?

First let’s identify the differences between ADD and ADHD:

ADHD stands for: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

ADD stands for: attention deficit disorder -without hyperactivity.

These terms will be used interchangeably in this blog post.

What is an ADHD coach?

An ADD/ADHD coach is someone who works with someone with ADHD on behavioral strategies to improve life satisfaction for the person with ADHD and the people around them who deal with their ADHD.

Why choose an ADHD coach who is a professional therapist?

A professional therapist is someone who has gone to school and gotten a masters degree and a license to provide therapy. They have the therapeutic background, research knowledge and general experience working with ADHD clients to provide a well-rounded, holistic approach to ADHD management. When you choose a coach who does not have the education to back it up, you are dealing with a lot of guessing which will ultimately cause you to spend unnecessary time, money and headaches.

Typical tasks/goals an ADHD coach works on:

Identify Challenges:

The coach works with you to identify specific areas where ADHD is causing difficulties, such as staying organized, managing time, or maintaining focus.

Develop Strategies:

The therapist and client work together to develop practical strategies to address daily challenges. For example, we might develop a system to keep track of tasks or set up routines to manage time more effectively so that you are aren’t overwhelmed with the day to day time management struggles.

This is a sample to do list that an ADHD coach can help develop with a client.

Provide Accountability:

Our therapists/coaches work to keep you accountable, encouraging you to follow through on the strategies they’ve set and to problem-solve when the strategies aren’t working. This ongoing support helps build new habits that can lead to a happier homelife.

Modeling:

Oftentimes, people with ADHD have difficulty starting tasks. We can sit with you to start the tasks and help you as far along the process as you need help. For example, if you have calls you have to make (e.g. to set up an appointment with a psychiatrist for medication management), we can help you write a script and sit with you while you make your call. Eventually, the goal is that you learn the skills and can eventually do things on your own.

Picture depicts a woman smiling while sitting in a chair and holding a modern cell phone while talking on the phone. There is another woman sitting across from her who is sitting on a large comfortable chair offering support. They are both smiling. They are in a mental health therapy office.

Boost Self-Esteem:

Living with ADHD can affect a person’s confidence. Seeing your loved one who is disappointed because you forgot another birthday and/or haven’t yet cleaned the dishes in the sink takes a daily toll on self-esteem. An ADHD coach provides positive reinforcement and will help you start to recognize and build on your strengths.

Offer Emotional Support:

Dealing with ADHD can be frustrating. This is true not only for YOU, but for many people in your life. An ADHD coach provides emotional support, helping you to stay motivated and optimistic as you work towards your goals.

If you are interested in getting an ADHD coach, reach out to us at Long Beach Therapy by texting/calling 562.310.9741.