ADHD coaches’ experiences with and perceptions of between-session communication with clients: a focus group

ABSTRACT

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is associated with difficulty initiating and following-through with tasks. When coaching clients with ADHD (a type of coaching called ‘ADHD coaching’), providing for additional communication between coaching sessions may be an effective approach to support progress on goals a client has established. However, little is known about the process of between-session contact in ADHD coaching. This phenomonolgical study employed a focus group to explore the experiences and perceptions of eight experienced, self-identified ADHD coaches regarding their between-session communication with clients. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis, and four key themes pertaining to between-session communication emerged. Further research is needed to provide a more full understanding of this important component of ADHD coaching.

PRACTICE POINTS

• This manuscript is particularly relevant to coaching for individuals with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

• This study provides a unique contribution to the coaching literature, and coaching practice, by exploring the under-examined topic of between-session communication between coach and client.

• Practitioners will understand the following aspects of between-session communication:

  	•	Its value and relevance to clients, particularly those with ADHD
  	•	Its purposes and functions
  	•	Common approaches to designing the agreement
  	•	Challenges that may be encountered

KEYWORDS:

• Coaching
• coach
• qualitative research
• focus group
• attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• ADHD

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Micah Saviet

Micah Saviet, MSW, LMSW graduated from the University of Maryland School of Social Work. He is interested in both research and clinical aspects of the mental health system. Additionally, he is particularly drawn to researching and exploring client-centred, behavioural-based strategies aimed at helping individuals with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) cope more effectively, and even thrive. He is Director of the Springer Institute.

Elizabeth Ahmann

Elizabeth Ahmann, ScD, RN, PCC, NBC-HWC has a masters degree in nursing and a doctorate in public health. In addition to a coaching practice focused on clients with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), she is a member of the ADHD Coaches Organization’s Research Committee and is a Professor and Subject Matter Expert in the Health and Wellness Coaching Department at Maryland University of Integrative Health. She is Research Director of the Springer Institute.