FAQ

What is executive functioning?
Executive Function (EF) refers to brain functions that activate, organize, integrate and manage other functions. It enables individuals to account for short and long-term consequences of their actions and to plan for those results. EF also allows individuals to make real-time evaluations of their actions and make necessary adjustments if those actions are not achieving the desired result. (chadd.org)

The eleven executive functions are:

Planning / Prioritization
Emotional Control
Response Inhibition
Task Initiation
Organization
Metacognition
Goal Directed Persitence
Working Memory
Flexibility
Time Management
Sustained Attention

What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 11 percent of school-age children. Symptoms continue into adulthood in more than three-quarters of cases. ADHD is characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. (chadd.org)

What is ADHD coaching?
adhdcoaching.org defines ADHD coaching as a “collaborative, supportive, goal-oriented process in which the coach and the client work together to identify the client's goals and then develop the self-awareness, systems, skills, and strategies necessary for the client to achieve those goals and full potential.” I think that about covers it!

How does ADHD and Executive Functioning coaching compare to regular life coaching?
Both ADHD/ EF coaching and life coaching involve collaboration, goal setting, powerful questioning, action steps, and accountability, but ADHD coaching is a bit more directive and specific. With ADHD/ EF coaching, the coach and client usually have more contact between sessions.

Do I or my child have to have a diagnosis of ADHD to work with you?
No. Many people struggle with executive functioning who don’t have a diagnosis. Building habits, staying motivated, and crafting and achieving goals is challenging for everyone, regardless of diagnosis.

How do I know if I am or if my child is a good candidate for coaching?
Coaching might be for you or your child if:

there is something in your life you’d like to understand, change, or accomplish, but you’re a bit stuck or not sure how to get there
you are hoping to build habits with a supportive collaborator to help you along the way
you are seeking support with time management, study skills, motivation, social skills, self-advocacy, work-life or school-life balance
you are willing to show up, be open, and try to do the work you set out to do between sessions

How long does coaching last?
There is a minimum commitment of three months. Beyond that, we’ll decide together when to pause or end the coaching relationship.

What does a typical coaching session look like?
I’ll ask you what the topic is for the day, or we’ll use your initial Coaching Agreement to guide us. Then we’ll choose an outcome, explore, make a specific plan, and figure out how you’ll be accountable. That might involve all sorts of things like calendars, alarms, texting me, getting outside support, etc.

How do we start?

First we’ll talk on the phone during a free consultation to determine if coaching might be a good fit for you or your child.
If we decide to move forward, we’ll schedule a 90-minute or two 45-minute discovery sessions where we’ll determine together what your goals are and if coaching is still the right fit.
After that, we may take a few assessments around areas like executive functioning, values, and strengths.
Then we’ll develop a set of goals together, sometimes called a Personal Coaching Agreement, to guide us in our time together.