What is ADHD coaching, and could it help you?
What ADHD coaching involves, how it differs from therapy and medication, who it suits, what it costs, and how to choose a coach in the UK.
ADHD coaching has become much more common in the UK, but it is not always clear what it involves. This guide explains the basics.
What coaching is
ADHD coaching is structured, practical support. You work one-to-one with a coach who understands ADHD to build systems that fit how your brain works, then keep them going. Sessions usually focus on one real problem at a time and end with a small, specific thing to try.
Common things people work on:
- planning a day that survives real life
- getting started on tasks they keep avoiding
- routines for mornings, evenings and admin
- managing email, meetings and deadlines at work
- keeping going when motivation drops
What it is not
Coaching is not therapy and it is not medical treatment. A coach does not diagnose ADHD, recommend medication or treat mental health conditions. If you're struggling with low mood, anxiety or anything urgent, speak to your GP.
Coaching, medication, or both?
These do different jobs. Medication, for people it suits, can help with focus and impulsivity. Coaching helps with the habits, systems and skills that medication does not create on its own. Many people use both. Others prefer coaching instead of medication, or use it while they wait for an assessment.
Do you need a diagnosis?
No. Coaching is open to anyone who recognises the difficulties. If you later have an assessment, what you have built in coaching still helps.
What it costs
In the UK, one-to-one ADHD coaching commonly costs somewhere between £50 and £150 a session, with lower prices when you book several sessions together. If ADHD affects your work, the government's Access to Work scheme may pay for it. See Access to Work and ADHD.
How to choose a coach
- Ask about their training and experience with ADHD specifically
- Ask what a typical session looks like, and how progress is reviewed
- Check they keep notes confidential and explain how
- Start with a free call if they offer one, to see whether you get on
A good coach will tell you honestly if coaching is not what you need.
This article is general information about ADHD coaching. It is not medical advice.