The most significant and fastest positive change an individual with ADHD can experience is with the proper use of medications that work for that person.

It might be challenging for some of those in the medical profession to select and over time, adjust the dosage of how ever many medications are to be used.

People don’t all respond the same way to these medications. In fact, statistics show that somewhere between 70% and 80% of recipients don’t respond or can’t tolerate these medications.

But there is a second component of ADHD that is not directly addressable with medication. From an early age, infants, and children may be treated differently than other children, simply because at an early age, their brains have been delayed in development and is different than other children.

As we continue to mature, we are often left behind in communication and interactions with our peers. I believe this is what causes the lower Emotional Intelligence that seems to pervade the ADHD community.

Another casualty can be an inadequate level of “life skills.” We may not have the world “wired” and can effort more in life with less of the results we want.

The result is that we need to learn skills, habits, work-arounds, and strategies for us to level the playing field or even, if we want to, gain a much greater sense of mastery over self, and life.

After medication and medical interventions, ADHD Coaching is often recommended.

Focus on Action: ADHD coaching is future-oriented and action-based. It emphasizes developing practical strategies to manage symptoms and improve daily functioning. This can be highly motivating for people with ADHD who often struggle with procrastination and getting things done.

Therapists, while offering some strategies, often delve deeper into the root causes of behavior.

Building on Strengths: ADHD coaches believe people with ADHD have unique strengths and talents. Coaching helps identify these strengths and leverage them to overcome challenges. This empowers individuals with ADHD and fosters self-belief.

Therapists may also explore strengths, but a larger focus might be on addressing past experiences or negative emotions.

Targeted Approach: ADHD coaching specifically targets challenges related to ADHD, like time management, organization, and planning. This laser focus can yield quicker results for someone who already understands their diagnosis and wants to improve specific skills. Therapists can address a wider range of emotional and mental health concerns, which may or may not be directly tied to ADHD.

Shorter-term Engagement: Coaching engagements are often shorter-term, focusing on achieving specific goals. This can be ideal for someone who wants a more structured approach and doesn't need deep emotional exploration. Therapy can be ongoing, addressing deeper issues that may require more time to unpack.

Self-Advocacy and Empowerment: ADHD coaching equips individuals with ADHD with the tools and confidence to advocate for themselves and manage their condition independently. This fosters self-reliance and a sense of control over one's life. Therapists may also teach self-advocacy skills, but a larger focus might be on processing past experiences and underlying emotions.

Important Caveat: It's important to acknowledge that ADHD coaching isn't a replacement for psychotherapy. In some cases, people with ADHD may benefit from both. Therapists can help address underlying emotional issues like low self-esteem or anxiety that can worsen ADHD symptoms. A coach can then build on the emotional groundwork to develop practical strategies.

The Bottom Line: ADHD coaching is a powerful tool for those who want to take an action-oriented approach to managing their ADHD and improve their daily lives. If you're looking for a future-focused, results-oriented approach to conquering ADHD challenges, coaching might be the superior choice.