What to look for in an ADHD Coach

If you're thinking about working with an ADHD coach, you might be wondering how to choose the right person. There are lots of coaches offering their services, but their training, experience, and approach can vary considerably, so I have compiled a list of things I would recommend checking before deciding who to work with.

Check Their ADHD Coaching Qualifications and Accreditation

ADHD coaching is not a protected title, which means that people can call themselves ADHD coaches without necessarily having completed recognised coaching training. I would therefore recommend checking what qualifications a coach holds, what training they have completed, and whether they have a recognised coaching accreditation.

For example, I hold ACC (Associate Certified Coach) accreditation with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) which involves completing coach-specific training, passing an exam, and demonstrating at least 100 hours of coaching experience. Accreditation can give you a clearer idea of a coach's professional training and commitment to maintaining standards.

Look for Experience Working With ADHD

Alongside qualifications, it's worth asking about a coach's experience working with people with ADHD. How much experience have they had coaching clients so far? Do they understand the difficulties you experience, whether that's organisation, procrastination, time management, emotional regulation, or managing competing demands at work and home?

Every person is different, so I believe it's important to find someone who understands you as an individual and treats you as such, rather than assume that the same techniques will work for everyone.

Find an ADHD Coach You Feel Comfortable With

Coaching often involves talking about personal challenges, habits, and difficulties that you might not feel comfortable discussing with everyone. It's therefore important to find someone you can speak openly with and who makes you feel listened to and understood.

Most coaches offer a discovery call, which gives you an opportunity to ask questions, find out more about how they work, and decide whether you feel comfortable working together. You can also ask what a typical session involves and how progress is reviewed.

Check Their Professional Standards

A professional coach should be clear about confidentiality, boundaries, and what coaching can and cannot offer. They should also follow a professional code of ethics and continue developing their skills through ongoing learning and, where appropriate, supervision.

Coaching isn't a replacement for medical advice, therapy, or an ADHD assessment, so it's helpful to understand what a coach can offer and whether their service fits your needs.

Take Your Time Choosing an ADHD Coach

You don't need to choose the first coach you speak to. Take your time, ask questions, and compare different coaches if that helps you make a decision. Be cautious if you feel rushed into booking sessions or buying a package before you've had a chance to decide whether the coach is right for you - do not allow anyone to pressure you into anything.

Ultimately, the best coach for someone else might not be the best coach for you. Their qualifications and experience matter, but so does the relationship you build together. Taking the time to find someone whose approach suits you can help you get more from your coaching sessions.