Communication Skills for Coaching
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Advanced ADHD Coaching Techniques course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Active Listening #
Active Listening
Explanation #
A coaching technique that requires the coach to fully concentrate, understand, respond, and remember what the client says.
Example #
A coach repeats, “You feel overwhelmed when deadlines approach,” confirming comprehension.
Practical application #
Use in initial sessions to build trust and uncover underlying concerns.
Challenges #
Tendency to interrupt or formulate responses before the client finishes speaking, especially when dealing with rapid ADHD thought patterns.
Attunement #
Attunement
Explanation #
The coach’s ability to sense and align with the client’s emotional state, fostering a sense of being heard.
Example #
Noticing a client’s subtle sigh and adjusting tone to a calmer pace.
Practical application #
Helps clients with ADHD feel safe enough to share distractions without judgment.
Challenges #
Maintaining attunement when the client’s mood shifts quickly due to impulsivity.
Boundary Setting #
Boundary Setting
Explanation #
Defining clear expectations about the coaching relationship, time, and topics permissible within sessions.
Example #
Stating, “We’ll focus on strategies for organization today; medical advice is beyond my scope.”
Practical application #
Prevents role confusion and protects both coach and client from over‑dependence.
Challenges #
Clients with ADHD may test boundaries by seeking constant reassurance or extending session time.
Clear Questioning #
Clear Questioning
Explanation #
Formulating concise, direct questions that guide the client toward insight without overwhelming them.
Example #
Asking, “What’s one small step you could take tomorrow?” instead of a broad inquiry.
Practical application #
Supports clients who struggle with executive function by narrowing focus.
Challenges #
Avoiding overly complex or multi‑part questions that can confuse clients with attention deficits.
Co‑Active Coaching Model #
Co‑Active Coaching Model
Explanation #
A framework where coach and client collaborate as equals, emphasizing the client’s innate wisdom.
Example #
The coach invites the client to set the agenda for each session.
Practical application #
Empowers ADHD clients to take ownership of their goals.
Challenges #
Balancing client autonomy with the need for structure in sessions.
Confirmation Bias #
Confirmation Bias
Explanation #
The tendency to favor information that confirms pre‑existing beliefs, potentially hindering objective coaching.
Example #
A coach assumes a client is always disorganized and overlooks evidence of improvement.
Practical application #
Coaches must regularly reflect on their assumptions.
Challenges #
Biases can be amplified when a coach repeatedly encounters similar ADHD behaviors.
Contextual Listening #
Contextual Listening
Explanation #
Attending not only to spoken words but also to surrounding circumstances that influence communication.
Example #
Noticing a client’s fidgeting and adjusting the session’s pace accordingly.
Practical application #
Helps address sensory sensitivities common in ADHD.
Challenges #
Requires heightened awareness, which can be taxing over long coaching periods.
De‑Escalation Techniques #
De‑Escalation Techniques
Explanation #
Methods used to reduce emotional intensity and restore constructive dialogue.
Example #
Suggesting a brief mindfulness pause when frustration spikes.
Practical application #
Supports ADHD clients who may experience rapid emotional swings.
Challenges #
Timing interventions appropriately without appearing dismissive.
Distraction Management #
Distraction Management
Explanation #
Coaching practices that help clients minimize external or internal interruptions.
Example #
Recommending a “no‑phone” zone during coaching sessions.
Practical application #
Increases session productivity for clients prone to wandering attention.
Challenges #
Clients may resist constraints that feel limiting.
Empathic Reflection #
Empathic Reflection
Explanation #
Restating the client’s feelings or thoughts to demonstrate understanding and encourage deeper exploration.
Example #
“It sounds like you feel frustrated because your plans keep changing.”
Practical application #
Validates the emotional experience of ADHD clients, fostering trust.
Challenges #
Over‑use can lead to redundancy; balance with forward‑moving dialogue.
Feedback Loop #
Feedback Loop
Explanation #
A cyclical process where coach and client exchange information, adjust strategies, and reassess outcomes.
Example #
Coach asks, “How did the new scheduling tool work for you?” and client replies.
Practical application #
Keeps ADHD coaching dynamic and responsive.
Challenges #
Maintaining momentum when clients forget to report back.
Goal Framing #
Goal Framing
Explanation #
Structuring objectives in a way that is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time‑bound.
Example #
Transforming “be more organized” into “create a daily to‑do list for the next two weeks.”
Practical application #
Provides concrete targets for clients with planning difficulties.
Challenges #
Ensuring goals remain flexible to accommodate ADHD variability.
Growth Mindset #
Growth Mindset
Explanation #
The belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and effort.
Example #
Encouraging a client to view setbacks as learning opportunities.
Practical application #
Counters negative self‑talk common in ADHD self‑esteem issues.
Challenges #
Shifting entrenched beliefs that may be reinforced by repeated failures.
Hyperfocus Awareness #
Hyperfocus Awareness
Explanation #
Recognizing periods when a client becomes intensely absorbed in an activity, often to the exclusion of other tasks.
Example #
Noticing a client spends hours on a hobby and neglects deadlines.
Practical application #
Coach helps channel hyperfocus toward productive outcomes.
Challenges #
Balancing the positive aspects of hyperfocus with necessary task completion.
Inclusive Language #
Inclusive Language
Explanation #
Using words that affirm the client’s identity without defining them solely by ADHD.
Example #
Saying “a client with ADHD” rather than “an ADHD client.”
Practical application #
Promotes dignity and reduces stigma.
Challenges #
Habits of shorthand language can be hard to break.
Information Chunking #
Information Chunking
Explanation #
Breaking complex concepts into small, manageable pieces.
Example #
Presenting one organizational tip per session rather than a full system.
Practical application #
Aligns with the reduced working memory capacity often seen in ADHD.
Challenges #
Ensuring that chunks still convey the full picture over time.
Intentional Pausing #
Intentional Pausing
Explanation #
Deliberately allowing brief silences so the client can think before responding.
Example #
After asking a question, the coach waits three seconds before speaking.
Practical application #
Gives ADHD clients space to organize thoughts.
Challenges #
Coach may feel uncomfortable with silence, risking premature filling.
Journaling Prompts #
Journaling Prompts
Explanation #
Guided questions that encourage clients to record thoughts, emotions, and actions.
Example #
“What three tasks did you complete today, and how did you feel?”
Practical application #
Supports tracking of progress and triggers for ADHD patterns.
Challenges #
Clients may forget or feel burdened by additional tasks.
Kinesthetic Feedback #
Kinesthetic Feedback
Explanation #
Using movement or physical activity to reinforce coaching concepts.
Example #
Having a client stand and stretch while discussing a new routine.
Practical application #
Engages ADHD learners who benefit from physical stimulation.
Challenges #
Maintaining professionalism while incorporating movement.
Listening Filters #
Listening Filters
Explanation #
Internal lenses that affect how information is received and interpreted.
Example #
A coach’s assumption that “ADHD = disorganization” filters client statements.
Practical application #
Coaches must regularly check these filters to stay objective.
Challenges #
Filters are often subconscious and require deliberate reflection.
Metacognitive Coaching #
Metacognitive Coaching
Explanation #
Guiding clients to reflect on their own thought processes and learning strategies.
Example #
Asking, “What helped you stay on task today?”
Practical application #
Enhances self‑regulation skills vital for ADHD management.
Challenges #
Clients may initially lack the vocabulary to articulate metacognitive insights.
Micro‑Goal Setting #
Micro‑Goal Setting
Explanation #
Defining very small, achievable steps that lead toward larger goals.
Example #
“Write one paragraph of the report before lunch.”
Practical application #
Reduces overwhelm for clients who struggle with large tasks.
Challenges #
Ensuring micro‑goals still align with broader objectives.
Non‑Verbal Mirroring #
Non‑Verbal Mirroring
Explanation #
Subtly matching a client’s posture or gestures to create subconscious connection.
Example #
Slightly leaning forward when the client leans forward.
Practical application #
Enhances trust, especially when verbal communication is limited.
Challenges #
Over‑mirroring can feel manipulative if detected.
Open‑Ended Questions #
Open‑Ended Questions
Explanation #
Questions that cannot be answered with a simple “yes” or “no,” encouraging elaboration.
Example #
“What does an ideal morning look like for you?”
Practical application #
Draws out richer information from ADHD clients who may otherwise give brief answers.
Challenges #
Clients may feel pressure to elaborate; coach must manage pacing.
Outcome Visualization #
Outcome Visualization
Explanation #
Guiding clients to imagine successful completion of a task or goal.
Example #
Asking the client to picture the feeling of submitting a finished project.
Practical application #
Increases motivation and clarifies steps needed.
Challenges #
Clients with anxiety may find visualization overwhelming.
Paraphrasing #
Paraphrasing
Explanation #
Restating the client’s words in the coach’s own language to confirm understanding.
Example #
“So you’re saying you feel stuck because you lose track of time?”
Practical application #
Checks comprehension and keeps the conversation on track.
Challenges #
Over‑paraphrasing can interrupt flow; balance is key.
Positive Reinforcement #
Positive Reinforcement
Explanation #
Providing praise or incentives when a client demonstrates desired behavior.
Example #
Acknowledging, “Great job completing your schedule for the week!”
Practical application #
Strengthens habit formation in ADHD coaching.
Challenges #
Reinforcement must be timely; delays reduce effectiveness.
Prompt Engineering #
Prompt Engineering
Explanation #
Crafting prompts that elicit specific, actionable responses from clients.
Example #
Using “What’s the next step you can take?” instead of “What do you think?”
Practical application #
Guides ADHD clients toward concrete actions.
Challenges #
Over‑structuring can limit client creativity.
Qualitative Feedback #
Qualitative Feedback
Explanation #
Providing feedback that focuses on the quality and nuance of client performance rather than numerical scores.
Example #
“Your planning was thorough, especially the way you broke tasks into subtasks.”
Practical application #
Aligns with the subjective experiences of ADHD clients.
Challenges #
May be harder for clients to quantify progress.
Reflective Listening #
Reflective Listening
Explanation #
The coach repeats back the essence of the client’s message to confirm understanding.
Example #
“You feel overwhelmed when deadlines cluster together.”
Practical application #
Validates emotions and clarifies issues.
Challenges #
Risk of sounding repetitive if overused.
Reframing #
Reframing
Explanation #
Changing the way a situation is viewed to create a more positive or constructive interpretation.
Example #
Turning “I missed the deadline” into “I learned what timing works best for me.”
Practical application #
Helps ADHD clients reduce self‑criticism.
Challenges #
Clients may resist reinterpreting negative experiences.
Self‑Advocacy Coaching #
Self‑Advocacy Coaching
Explanation #
Training clients to communicate their needs and preferences effectively.
Example #
Role‑playing a request for a quiet workspace with an employer.
Practical application #
Enables ADHD clients to seek accommodations.
Challenges #
Fear of stigma may inhibit practice.
Signal Words #
Signal Words
Explanation #
Specific words that indicate a shift in conversation, such as “now,” “next,” or “finally.”
Example #
Using “next” to move from problem discussion to solution planning.
Practical application #
Provides structure for clients who struggle with sequencing.
Challenges #
Over‑reliance can make dialogue feel mechanical.
Silence Management #
Silence Management
Explanation #
Strategically using quiet moments to encourage client introspection.
Example #
Allowing a 5‑second pause after a client shares a challenge.
Practical application #
Gives ADHD clients time to process information.
Challenges #
Coaches may feel compelled to fill gaps, breaking flow.
Situational Awareness #
Situational Awareness
Explanation #
Understanding the physical and relational context of communication.
Example #
Noticing a client’s room is cluttered and addressing it as a potential distraction.
Practical application #
Adjusts coaching strategies to the client’s surroundings.
Challenges #
Requires constant observation, which can be draining.
Sleep Hygiene Discussion #
Sleep Hygiene Discussion
Explanation #
Coaching conversations about habits that promote quality sleep.
Example #
Suggesting a consistent bedtime routine to improve focus.
Practical application #
Addresses a common ADHD symptom—fatigue.
Challenges #
Clients may view sleep advice as beyond coaching scope.
Solution‑Focused Dialogue #
Solution‑Focused Dialogue
Explanation #
Steering conversations toward what works and how to replicate success.
Example #
“What has helped you stay on track before?”
Practical application #
Builds confidence in ADHD clients.
Challenges #
Risk of overlooking underlying issues that need attention.
Stakeholder Communication #
Stakeholder Communication
Explanation #
Engaging family, teachers, or employers in the coaching process.
Example #
Sending a brief summary to a client’s supervisor with consent.
Practical application #
Creates a consistent support system.
Challenges #
Maintaining confidentiality and client autonomy.
Structured Debrief #
Structured Debrief
Explanation #
A systematic recap of what was discussed, decisions made, and next steps.
Example #
Ending each session with “What will you try this week?”
Practical application #
Reinforces learning and accountability.
Challenges #
Time constraints may limit depth.
Summarization #
Summarization
Explanation #
Concisely restating key points from a conversation.
Example #
“So far we’ve identified time‑blocking as a priority.”
Practical application #
Helps ADHD clients retain core messages.
Challenges #
Over‑summarizing can truncate nuanced discussion.
Synchronous Communication #
Synchronous Communication
Explanation #
Direct communication occurring simultaneously, such as video calls or phone chats.
Example #
Conducting a coaching session via Zoom.
Practical application #
Allows immediate feedback and visual cues.
Challenges #
Technical glitches can disrupt focus for ADHD clients.
Task Chunking #
Task Chunking
Explanation #
Dividing a larger task into smaller, discrete components.
Example #
Breaking “write report” into “outline,” “draft introduction,” “add references.”
Practical application #
Reduces overwhelm and improves completion rates.
Challenges #
Clients may lose sight of the overall purpose.
Time‑Blocking Technique #
Time‑Blocking Technique
Explanation #
Allocating specific time slots for particular activities.
Example #
Reserving 9‑10 am for email management.
Practical application #
Provides structure for clients who struggle with start‑stop cues.
Challenges #
Rigid blocks may cause stress if unexpected events arise.
Trauma‑Informed Communication #
Trauma‑Informed Communication
Explanation #
An approach that recognizes the impact of trauma on communication patterns.
Example #
Using gentle language and giving control over discussion topics.
Practical application #
Many ADHD clients have co‑occurring trauma; sensitivity reduces re‑triggering.
Challenges #
Requires additional training for coaches.
Validation Statements #
Validation Statements
Explanation #
Verbal acknowledgments that a client’s feelings are understandable.
Example #
“It makes sense you’d feel frustrated after that setback.”
Practical application #
Builds rapport and reduces shame.
Challenges #
Over‑validation can prevent problem‑solving focus.
Verbal Cueing #
Verbal Cueing
Explanation #
Using specific words to guide the flow of conversation.
Example #
“Now let’s explore…” to shift topics.
Practical application #
Provides predictability for ADHD clients.
Challenges #
Excessive cueing may feel patronizing.
Visual Metaphors #
Visual Metaphors
Explanation #
Using images or diagrams to convey abstract concepts.
Example #
Comparing a “brain fog” to a clouded window.
Practical application #
Supports clients who process information visually.
Challenges #
Metaphors must be culturally appropriate and clear.
Voice Modulation #
Voice Modulation
Explanation #
Adjusting pitch, volume, and speed to enhance engagement.
Example #
Slowing speech when introducing a complex strategy.
Practical application #
Helps maintain client attention.
Challenges #
Coaches may unintentionally convey judgment through tone.
Wording Simplicity #
Wording Simplicity
Explanation #
Using straightforward, everyday words to convey ideas.
Example #
Saying “plan” instead of “strategic framework.”
Practical application #
Reduces cognitive load for ADHD clients.
Challenges #
Balancing simplicity with professional credibility.
Active Paraphrase #
Active Paraphrase
Explanation #
A dynamic form of paraphrasing that includes both content and emotion.
Example #
“You’re feeling anxious because you have several tasks due tomorrow.”
Practical application #
Demonstrates attentiveness and fosters deeper insight.
Challenges #
Requires quick mental processing; may be difficult in fast‑paced sessions.
Behavioural Contract #
Behavioural Contract
Explanation #
A written agreement outlining specific actions, timelines, and consequences.
Example #
Client commits to using a planner daily for one month.
Practical application #
Provides external structure for clients with weak self‑regulation.
Challenges #
Over‑formalization may feel restrictive.
Coaching Presence #
Coaching Presence
Explanation #
The coach’s ability to be fully engaged, open, and non‑judgmental.
Example #
Maintaining eye contact and resisting distractions during sessions.
Practical application #
Models the focused attention ADHD clients aim to develop.
Challenges #
External interruptions can compromise presence.
Contextual Reframing #
Contextual Reframing
Explanation #
Adjusting the meaning of a situation based on its broader context.
Example #
Viewing a missed deadline as an opportunity to refine time‑management tactics.
Practical application #
Helps clients see setbacks as data points.
Challenges #
Requires client willingness to adopt a new perspective.
Decision‑Making Matrix #
Decision‑Making Matrix
Explanation #
A visual tool that rates options against criteria to aid choice.
Example #
Scoring “study at library” vs. “study at home” on noise level, convenience, and focus.
Practical application #
Reduces analysis paralysis common in ADHD.
Challenges #
Over‑complex matrices can overwhelm.
Dynamic Feedback #
Dynamic Feedback
Explanation #
Providing immediate, situational comments as the client acts.
Example #
While the client drafts a schedule, the coach suggests a color‑coding system.
Practical application #
Capitalizes on the moment of engagement.
Challenges #
Requires coach to be highly attentive and responsive.
Emotion Labeling #
Emotion Labeling
Explanation #
Helping clients name the emotions they experience.
Example #
“It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed.”
Practical application #
Enhances emotional regulation for ADHD clients.
Challenges #
Clients may lack an emotional vocabulary initially.
Executive Function Coaching #
Executive Function Coaching
Explanation #
Targeted strategies to improve planning, organization, impulse control, and working memory.
Example #
Teaching the use of a “two‑minute rule” for quick tasks.
Practical application #
Directly addresses core ADHD challenges.
Challenges #
Transfer of skills to real‑life contexts may be inconsistent.
Focus Anchors #
Focus Anchors
Explanation #
Small, repeatable actions that bring attention back to the present moment.
Example #
Using a tactile object like a stress ball during discussions.
Practical application #
Supports clients who drift during sessions.
Challenges #
Over‑reliance may impede development of internal focus.
Goal Alignment #
Goal Alignment
Explanation #
Ensuring coaching goals correspond with the client’s personal priorities.
Example #
Aligning a productivity goal with the client’s desire to spend more time with family.
Practical application #
Increases motivation and relevance.
Challenges #
Misalignment can cause disengagement.
Habit Loop Disruption #
Habit Loop Disruption
Explanation #
Identifying and altering the trigger‑routine‑reward cycle that sustains an unwanted habit.
Example #
Replacing the cue “checking phone” with a brief breathing exercise.
Practical application #
Helps ADHD clients break impulsive patterns.
Challenges #
Requires consistent monitoring and reinforcement.
Implicit Bias Awareness #
Implicit Bias Awareness
Explanation #
Recognizing hidden attitudes that can affect coaching interactions.
Example #
Noticing assumptions about “laziness” when a client misses deadlines.
Practical application #
Promotes equitable treatment.
Challenges #
Biases are often subtle and require ongoing self‑audit.
Information Overload Management #
Information Overload Management
Explanation #
Strategies to prevent overwhelming clients with too much data at once.
Example #
Providing one new tool per session instead of a full suite.
Practical application #
Keeps ADHD clients focused on actionable items.
Challenges #
Determining the optimal amount of information per session.
Interactive Role‑Play #
Interactive Role‑Play
Explanation #
Practicing real‑world scenarios in a controlled coaching environment.
Example #
Acting out a conversation with a boss about flexible hours.
Practical application #
Builds confidence and communication competence.
Challenges #
Some clients may feel self‑conscious during enactments.
Jargon Elimination #
Jargon Elimination
Explanation #
Removing technical terminology that may confuse clients.
Example #
Replacing “neurodivergent” with “different brain wiring.”
Practical application #
Facilitates comprehension for clients with attention challenges.
Challenges #
Balancing professional terminology with accessibility.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) #
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Explanation #
Specific, measurable data points used to evaluate progress.
Example #
Number of days the client successfully uses a planner.
Practical application #
Provides concrete evidence of improvement.
Challenges #
Over‑emphasis on numbers can create pressure.
Learning Style Adaptation #
Learning Style Adaptation
Explanation #
Tailoring coaching communication to the client’s preferred mode of processing.
Example #
Using diagrams for visual learners, podcasts for auditory learners.
Practical application #
Increases retention for ADHD clients.
Challenges #
Some clients may have multimodal preferences, requiring blended approaches.
Mind Mapping #
Mind Mapping
Explanation #
A diagram that visually connects ideas around a central concept.
Example #
Mapping out steps to complete a project.
Practical application #
Helps ADHD clients see relationships between tasks.
Challenges #
May become cluttered without clear hierarchy.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) #
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Explanation #
A collaborative conversation style that strengthens a client’s own motivation for change.
Example #
Asking, “What would be different if you managed time better?”
Practical application #
Aligns with self‑determination principles for ADHD clients.
Challenges #
Requires skillful questioning to avoid resistance.
Neurodiversity Terminology #
Neurodiversity Terminology
Explanation #
Vocabulary that respects the varied ways brains function.
Example #
Using “person with ADHD” versus “ADHD person” based on client preference.
Practical application #
Promotes respectful communication.
Challenges #
Preferences may shift, requiring ongoing check‑ins.
Non‑Judgmental Feedback #
Non‑Judgmental Feedback
Explanation #
Offering observations without assigning blame or negative labels.
Example #
“I noticed the planner was left open; perhaps we can set a reminder to close it.”
Practical application #
Reduces defensiveness in ADHD clients.
Challenges #
Maintaining balance between honesty and encouragement.
Outcome‑Based Language #
Outcome‑Based Language
Explanation #
Speaking in terms of the results the client wishes to achieve.
Example #
“When you finish your report, how will you feel?”
Practical application #
Keeps sessions goal‑directed.
Challenges #
May feel abstract if not linked to concrete steps.
Paradoxical Intervention #
Paradoxical Intervention
Explanation #
Suggesting the client engage in a behavior they typically avoid, to reduce resistance.
Example #
“Try allowing yourself a short break; you might find you return more focused.”
Practical application #
Can be effective for ADHD clients who fear rigidity.
Challenges #
Must be used ethically and with clear intent.
Peer Modeling #
Peer Modeling
Explanation #
Demonstrating successful strategies through stories of similar individuals.
Example #
Sharing how another client used timers to improve task completion.
Practical application #
Provides relatable examples that inspire action.
Challenges #
Ensure models are realistic and not overly idealized.
Positive Self‑Talk Coaching #
Positive Self‑Talk Coaching
Explanation #
Guiding clients to replace negative thoughts with supportive statements.
Example #
Replacing “I can’t focus” with “I can use tools to improve focus.”
Practical application #
Boosts self‑efficacy for ADHD clients.
Challenges #
Clients may find affirmations inauthentic initially.
Prompting Strategies #
Prompting Strategies
Explanation #
Techniques that provide external triggers to initiate desired actions.
Example #
Setting phone alarms for task start times.
Practical application #
Compensates for working‑memory deficits.
Challenges #
Over‑reliance can hinder internal initiative development.
Question Funnel #
Question Funnel
Explanation #
Starting with broad questions and narrowing to specifics to uncover details.
Example #
“What’s your biggest challenge?” → “How does that affect your morning routine?”
Practical application #
Helps ADHD clients articulate underlying issues.
Challenges #
Must avoid leading questions that bias responses.
Reflective Journaling #
Reflective Journaling
Explanation #
Encouraging clients to write about experiences, feelings, and lessons learned.
Example #
Prompting a client to note moments of focus during the day.
Practical application #
Reinforces learning and tracks patterns.
Challenges #
Consistency can be difficult for clients with executive dysfunction.
Resilience Building #
Resilience Building
Explanation #
Developing the capacity to recover from setbacks.
Example #
Coaching a client to view a missed deadline as a learning moment rather than failure.
Practical application #
Supports long‑term sustainability of ADHD coping mechanisms.
Challenges #
Requires patience as progress may be non‑linear.
Scenario Planning #
Scenario Planning
Explanation #
Imagining possible future events and preparing responses.
Example #
Discussing how to handle an unexpected meeting that disrupts a schedule.
Practical application #
Strengthens adaptability for ADHD clients.
Challenges #
Over‑planning can cause analysis paralysis.
Self‑Monitoring Checklists #
Self‑Monitoring Checklists
Explanation #
Simple lists that clients use to record completion of tasks or behaviors.
Example #
A daily “Did I use my timer?” checkbox.
Practical application #
Provides immediate visual feedback.
Challenges #
Checklist fatigue may reduce effectiveness.
Sense‑Making Dialogue #
Sense‑Making Dialogue
Explanation #
Conversations that help clients create coherent stories about their experiences.
Example #
Guiding a client to link past successes with current goals.
Practical application #
Enhances identity integration for ADHD individuals.
Challenges #
Requires time and depth; may be limited in brief sessions.
Skill Transfer Coaching #
Skill Transfer Coaching
Explanation #
Assisting clients in applying learned strategies across different contexts.
Example #
Using a planning tool at work and then at home.
Practical application #
Ensures that gains are not isolated to coaching sessions.
Challenges #
Clients may revert to old habits in new environments.
Social Cue Training #
Social Cue Training
Explanation #
Teaching clients to interpret facial expressions, tone, and body language.
Example #
Role‑playing a conversation where a colleague’s sigh indicates dissatisfaction.
Practical application #
Improves workplace interactions for ADHD clients.
Challenges #
Requires repeated practice and feedback.
Strategic Silence #
Strategic Silence
Explanation #
Intentionally withholding speech to encourage client contribution.
Example #
After a client shares a challenge, the coach remains quiet for a few seconds.
Practical application #
Allows ADHD clients to process and respond fully.
Challenges #
Coach discomfort may lead to premature filling of silence.
Structure‑First Coaching #
Structure‑First Coaching
Explanation #
Prioritizing the establishment of consistent session formats before delving into content.
Example #
Starting each session with a brief check‑in, agenda setting, and recap.
Practical application #
Provides predictability that benefits ADHD attention patterns.
Challenges #
May feel rigid to clients who crave spontaneity.
Summative Feedback #
Summative Feedback
Explanation #
Comprehensive evaluation of progress at the conclusion of a coaching cycle.
Example #
“Over the past month, you’ve increased on‑time task completion by 40%.”
Practical application #
Highlights achievements and informs next steps.
Challenges #
Requires accurate data collection throughout the period.
Systemic Inquiry #
Systemic Inquiry
Explanation #
Exploring how various life domains (work, home, health) interact to affect the client.
Example #
Asking how sleep quality influences work focus.
Practical application #
Addresses the multifaceted nature of ADHD.
Challenges #
Can become overwhelming if too many variables are introduced at once.
Task Prioritization Matrix #
Task Prioritization Matrix
Explanation #
Visual tool that categorizes tasks by urgency and importance.
Example #
Placing “client report due tomorrow” in the urgent‑important quadrant.
Practical application #
Helps ADHD clients focus on what truly matters.
Challenges #
Decision fatigue may impede accurate placement.
Therapeutic Alliance Building #
Therapeutic Alliance Building
Explanation #
The process of establishing a strong, supportive partnership between coach and client.
Example #
Consistently honoring session times and follow‑through on commitments.
Practical application #
Critical for client engagement, especially when attention is fragile.
Challenges #
Disruptions or missed appointments can erode alliance quickly.
Time Estimation Coaching #
Time Estimation Coaching
Explanation #
Assisting clients in realistically predicting how long tasks will take.
Example #
Using the “Pomodoro” method to gauge time spent on writing.
Practical application #
Reduces chronic under‑ or over‑estimation common in ADHD.
Challenges #
Clients may resist adjusting long‑held habits of misestimation.
Trauma‑Sensitive Listening #
Trauma‑Sensitive Listening
Explanation #
Listening techniques that prioritize safety and avoid triggering content.
Example #
Offering the option to pause when discussing emotionally charged topics.
Practical application #
Supports ADHD clients with trauma histories.
Challenges #
Requires coach to be attuned to subtle signs of distress.
Visualization Exercises #
Visualization Exercises
Explanation #
Guided mental simulations of desired outcomes or processes.
Example #
Imagining a successful meeting where the client confidently presents ideas.
Practical application #
Enhances motivation and reduces anxiety.
Challenges #
Clients with vivid imaginations may become overly absorbed