ADHD Coaching

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

ADD Coaching is a specialized type of life coaching that uses specific techniques geared toward working with the unique brain wiring of individuals with Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Function

Coaches work with clients to help them better manage time, organize, as well as start (and finish) projects. There is also an element of education, as each client learns better how their AD/HD affects them. Coaches put emphasis on finding individual strengths, and using those strengths more often, while finding "work-arounds" for dealing with challenges. Coaches also help clients get a better grasp of what reasonable expectations are for them as individuals, since people with ADD or AD/HD "brain wiring" often seem to need external mirrors for accurate self-awareness about their potential despite their apparent "limitations."While some ADD Coaches work with clients in person, many do phone coaching only, which (in theory) allows clients to find the best coach for themselves, regardless of location. A good fit between client and coach (as well as between coach and coach training) is essential, and there are advantages to working over the phone, for both client and coach.

History

The first comprehensive ADD Coach Training was developed by Madelyn Griffith-Haynie. Graduates from her Optimal Functioning Institute use A.C.T. by way of indentifying their credentials. This is not to be confused with ACT (no periods) which is a different training.

Finding an ADHD Coach

ADHD coaches have training specific to the needs of the ADHD client but many also coach clients who have not been diagnosed. The best way to find a coach who is a good fit is to interview several coaches to get an idea of the different styles and personalities of each coach. Choose a coach you feel comfortable talking with who also gives you a sense of security so you feel free to be honest about what is happening in your life. The coach should be supportive, non judgmental and able to understand the problems you discuss. In 2005 several ADHD coaches formed the ADHD Coaches Organization a nonprofit organization for the support and promotion of ADHD Coaches and Coaching. The organization has grown rapidly and offers a variety of benefits to its member coaches. Members are listed in a searchable database that is available for use by anyone looking for a coach. In addition, there is information about training programs offered for ADHD coaches, although this list is not all inclusive.

Next Page


This article is based on an article from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia and is available under the terms of GNU Free Documentation License.
In the Wikipedia there is a list with all authors of this article available.