ADHD Coaching Guides

Most ADHD coaches charge between $150-300 per session, with the average landing around $200-250 for an hour. If you're seeing a coach twice a month, that's $400-600+ per month, which adds up quickly when you need consistent support.
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Shimmer works on a subscription model instead: $230/month gets you unlimited 1:1 coaching sessions, plus community support and check-ins between sessions. You don't have to do mental math about whether you can afford an extra session when you're struggling.
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Insurance typically doesn't cover ADHD coaching because it's considered personal development rather than medical treatment. Shimmer accepts FSA and HSA payments, which can help offset the cost if your employer offers those benefits.

Since "ADHD coach" isn't a protected title, anyone can claim it. You'll find people who took a weekend course and now call themselves ADHD specialists. This is why actually verifying credentials matters.
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Look for PAAC certification (Professional Association of ADHD Coaches), which requires 60+ hours of ADHD-specific training, 75 hours of coaching practice, and passing a competency review. It's the gold standard for ADHD coaching.
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ICF (International Coaching Federation) or NBC-HWC (National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach) are also solid credentials, but make sure the coach has ADHD-specific training on top of general coaching certification.
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Don't just trust their website. Ask them directly about their ADHD-specific training, where they got certified, and whether they have ongoing supervision or oversight. With Shimmer you don't need to worry about any of this. We only hire the top 3.7% of the most qualified ADHD coaches and provide both ongoing training and oversight. Plus if you ever want to change coaches we make it incredibly easy.

Therapy focuses on processing emotions, working through trauma, and treating mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Coaching focuses on the present and future, helping you build systems and strategies to manage daily challenges.
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Your therapist helps you understand why you struggle. Your coach helps you figure out what to do about it.
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Many ADHD adults benefit from both. Therapy addresses the emotional impact of living with ADHD, while coaching helps you develop practical skills for time management, organization, and executive function.

Insurance typically doesn't cover ADHD coaching because it's classified as personal development rather than medical treatment. Your therapy benefits only apply to licensed therapists, not coaches.
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If you have an FSA or HSA through your employer, you can often use those funds for ADHD coaching. Some states require a formal ADHD diagnosis for FSA/HSA eligibility, so check your specific plan's requirements.

Research shows virtual ADHD coaching is just as effective as in-person coaching. For many people with ADHD, it's actually more effective because it removes executive function barriers like commuting, parking, and transitions between locations.
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You can schedule sessions during your lunch break, after your kids go to bed, or whenever works for your schedule without worrying about travel time. This flexibility makes it easier to stay consistent.
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Virtual coaching also means you're not limited to whoever happens to practice near you. You can work with coaches who specialize in your specific challenges, regardless of where they're located.

PAAC (Professional Association of ADHD Coaches) certification is the gold standard credential for ADHD coaches. It requires 60+ hours of ADHD-specific training, 75 hours of coaching practice with real clients, mentor coaching, and passing a competency review.
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PAAC-certified coaches have formal training in ADHD neurobiology, executive function challenges, and evidence-based coaching methods. This certification ensures your coach has actual expertise, not just personal experience with ADHD.

Professional directories like PAAC, NBC-HWC, and ICF list certified coaches by location. Many qualified coaches now work virtually, which expands your options beyond just local providers.
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When you're evaluating coaches, ask about their ADHD-specific training, certification, methodology, and whether they have ongoing supervision. Schedule consultation calls with a few different coaches before making a decision.
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Verify their credentials directly rather than just trusting what's on their website. Local ADHD support groups or CHADD chapters sometimes maintain referral lists as well.

Sessions usually start by reviewing what's worked and what hasn't since your last meeting. You'll talk through specific challenges you're facing and work together to create systems that fit your ADHD brain.
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Your coach helps you break down overwhelming tasks, set realistic goals, and build accountability structures. You'll leave each session with concrete action items, not just vague advice.
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Many coaches also offer check-ins or support between sessions to help you maintain momentum when things get hard.

Research shows ADHD coaching significantly improves executive function, time management, and goal achievement when coaches use evidence-based methodologies. The key is finding a coach with proper ADHD-specific training and a structured approach.
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Coaching works best when combined with other support like medication or therapy if you need it. Success depends on consistent sessions, accountability between meetings, and strategies tailored to your specific challenges rather than generic productivity advice.

No, most ADHD coaches don't require a formal diagnosis, though it helps them understand your specific challenges better. In fact, many non-ADHDers also benefit from executive function coaching also.
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If you're planning to use FSA or HSA funds, many states require documentation of an ADHD diagnosis for reimbursement eligibility. A diagnosis also helps your coach tailor strategies to your neurotype.
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If you strongly identify with ADHD challenges but haven't been formally evaluated, most coaches will still work with you.