Finding an ADD/ADHD Coach for Adults

Are you considering working with an ADD/ADHD coach? Here's how to find the right person to help you.

If you have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you may want to consider working with an ADHD coach. "A good coach can help you develop a full understanding of your particular version of ADHD," says Barbara Luther, a master coach certified by the International Coach Federation and director of training at the ADD Coaching Academy. "Each person's ADHD is unique," says Luther. "A coach can help you develop strategies customized to minimize your limitations, and more important, to leverage your strengths."

Finding a good coach can be challenging. "The field is growing dramatically and, to be honest, it oftentimes attracts people whose qualifications and experience are questionable," warns Luther. In fact, Luther adds, the certification standards for the field are just recently being developed. One good place to start your search is at the ADD Coaching Academy. The Attention Deficit Disorder Association is also a great resource. Here are a few tips Luther suggests you keep in mind while searching for a coach that is right for you:

• Find out how engaged prospective coaches are in their profession. Ask them to tell you something about the best books in the field, and don't settle for just a title and an author. You need to dig a bit to find out if they are up-to-date on what is a rapidly developing discipline.
• Ask the candidates if they have gone to any professional conferences recently. If the answer is yes, then ask about the speakers and their presentations.
• Explore each coach's particular area of expertise. Some specialize in dealing with kids, while others focus on helping people meet work challenges. You want someone who has significant experience dealing with your issues.
• Be aware that most ADD/ADHD coaching for adult ADHD takes place over the phone and/or via e-mail. (Children usually require in-person sessions.) Therefore, it's not necessary to limit yourself to someone local. Many people maintain productive relationships with coaches they've never met in person.
• Steer clear of candidates who sound like coaches from sports or other disciplines, particularly if they emphasize the importance of maximal effort. "That try-harder model of coaching should be a red flag," says Luther. "Managing life with ADHD is not about trying harder. It's about figuring out ways to get the most out of a different sort of brain."
• Listen for an emphasis on strengths. You want someone who is skilled at being positive and supportive and who is creative at helping you maximize the impact of the abilities you have.

Once you start the coaching process, keep in mind that it's important to report accurately on the issues that trouble you the most. Be honest about your struggles and progress, because coaches are only as good as the information they get from their clients. In certain cases, it may be helpful to have a family member involved in the assessment process.

Unfortunately, ADD/ADHD coaching can be quite expensive, costing as much as $250 to $400 a month for weekly phone sessions. You may consider the price worth it, however, if the coaching helps you achieve your goals. If hiring a personal coach turns out to be too costly, you may want to explore group-coaching sessions. This fairly common practice involves a coach and three or four clients connected through conference calls. Not only is the bill divided among the clients, but you've also got a built-in support group.