What to Look for in an ADHD Coach
There are many ADHD coaches out there. When searching for an ADHD coach, what is the best strategy? What qualities should you be looking for? The answer is both simple and not so simple.
The Right Fit
The most important factor to consider when looking for a coach is finding the right fit. A coach can have all the best reviews and testimonials in the world but not be the best coach for you. The best ADHD coaches will tell you if it is not a good fit.
Everyone with ADHD is unique. Therefore, they will all have unique needs. This means, when you are looking for a coach, find one that is well suited to your specific needs.
Look at Multiple Coaches
I would love to say, “Coach with me! I’m the right coach for you!” However, I know that I might not be the best coach for you. As mentioned above, having the right coach is crucial. To know which coach is best for you, research multiple coaches. Do not simply go for the first one you find. Research your options and find one that meets your needs. You can even try out a few. Most coaches offer a free first session. Do not be afraid to take advantage of those. The coach is using that to get to know you as well.
Safety, Space, and Connection
You want a positive coaching environment. You need to feel safe for coaching to be effective. Make sure the coach allows you to have abundant processing space. Many ADHDers are verbal processors and need time to process what they are discussing with a coach. You also need to feel connected to your coach and like they are on the same page as you.
ADHD Awareness
If what you want an ADHD coach, make sure the coach has ADHD-specific training. You want someone who knows the ADHD brain well and can help you see where your ADHD is affecting you. The coach needs to help you look at your life through an ADHD lens. That way, you can see how your ADHD is impacting your life and where you need to compensate for those challenges.
Engaged Presence
When you talk with the coach, are they engaged with the conversation? Do they seem to listen to you and hear what is most important to you? Do they build a partnership with you? Are you able to co-create together? All of these things are important factors in deciding if a coach is right for you.
Curiosity
A good coach is curious about you and your life situation. They wonder about you (in a good way). They ask powerful questions that invite you to get curious about yourself. Through that curiosity, you begin to see new possibilities for your life.
Inspires Action and Growth
Your conversation with a coach should inspire you to take action. In the initial stages of coaching, that action might be something as simple as exploring more about yourself. Later, you will want to take bigger actions that will lead to personal growth. A good coaching session inspires you to get moving.
What to Watch Out For
Make sure the “coach” is, in fact, a coach and is not simply telling you what to do. Real ADHD coaching involves the client coming up with the strategy to try. If the “coach” is just telling you what to do, they are more of a consultant than a coach.
Lastly…
I want to help you in your search for a coach. I invite you to research me and my coaching. If you would like, I can also give you some names of other coaches to explore. As I said before, look at multiple coaches before making a decision.