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What the Heck is ADHD/Executive Function Coaching Anyway?

Writer: Joanna Harding-DugganJoanna Harding-Duggan

Introduction


In our ever changing world professionals, businesses, and students are constantly being asked to adapt and evolve.  Navigating these changes can be challenging, particularly for those who experience executive dysfunction.  Joanna Harding-Duggan Coaching is dedicated to partnering with clients to elicit growth through the sciences of coaching, psychology and behaviour change.  


What is Coaching?


According to the International Coaching Federation (ICF), coaching is:

"Partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential."  (International Coaching Federation, 2025)

The ICF outlines eight core competencies that define effective coaching (International Coaching Federation, 2025). Joanna Harding-Duggan Coaching integrates these principles into its personalized, person-centered coaching methodology:

  1. Demonstrates Ethical Practice – Joanna Harding-Duggan Coaching upholds the highest ethical standards, respecting client confidentiality, autonomy, and professional boundaries.

  2. Embodies a Coaching Mindset – The coaching process is rooted in continuous learning, self-awareness, and a commitment to evidence-based practices in behavior change.

  3. Establishes and Maintains Agreements – Coaching sessions are structured around clear objectives, ensuring alignment with client goals.

  4. Cultivates Trust and Safety – A compassionate, nonjudgmental environment is fundamental to fostering meaningful change.

  5. Maintains Presence – Joanna Harding-Duggan Coaching practices deep listening and adaptability, responding to client needs in the moment.

  6. Listens Actively – Coaches focus on what is said and unsaid, helping clients uncover deeper insights.

  7. Evokes Awareness – Through powerful questioning and reflection, clients gain clarity on their challenges and opportunities.

  8. Facilitates Client Growth – Clients are supported in taking sustainable, effective action that aligns with their values and aspirations.


Why ADHD/ Executive Dysfunction Coaching? 


Research shows that over 600 million adults worldwide are affected by executive dysfunction secondary to ADHD or Concussion  (CADDAC, n.d.) (Statistics Canada, 2023). The effects of executive dysfunction in the workplace or at school includes but is not limited to increased absenteeism, decreased productivity, increased accidents (due to dysregulation of attention), and chronic underachievement.   Living with such challenges can have a devastating impact on self-efficacy and self-esteem.


Without comprehensive support, stand alone strategies such as self-help books and medication are less effective.  Specialized coaching, however, offers a personalized comprehensive approach to lasting change.


What is Executive Dysfunction (ADHD/Concussion) Coaching?


The ADHD Coaches Organization (ACO) describes Coaching for executive dysfunction as a specialized form of coaching that addresses the specific needs of clients who have ADHD or ADHD-like symptoms. It is a supportive, collaborative, goal-oriented process.

They further identify the three distinct elements of coaching employed by the coach as: 

“Coaching: Similar to other forms of coaching - like wellness coaching or executive coaching - ADHD/Executive Dysfunction coaching is client-centered, client-driven, and confidential. ADHD/Executive Dysfunction coaches facilitate the client’s actions toward self-awareness and the identification and achievement of the client’s self-identified goals, providing structure and accountability as needed.

Skills Coaching:  The ADHD/Executive Dysfunction coach and client collaborate to develop conscious awareness of the client’s strengths and challenges.  Leveraging that awareness, the coach supports the client in creating systems and strategies tailored to the client’s needs and to strengthen the client’s ability to manage the pragmatic aspects of life.

Education: The coach helps to educate the client about ADHD, Executive Dysfunction and/or concussion and how it affects them across a lifetime.  The coach may also provide information regarding tools, resources, and referrals, as well as research-based information relevant to the client’s needs and interests. “(ADHD Coaches Organization, n.d.).

Who we Serve

Joanna Harding-Duggan Coaching recognizes that every individual is unique, with distinct values, motivations, and aspirations. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, coaching engagements are tailored to each client’s needs, ensuring relevance and long-term impact. Clients learn how to break through obstacles, shift unhelpful patterns, and build new, sustainable habits. 

The ultimate goal of Joanna Harding-Duggan Coaching is to empower clients to trust in their own ability to create change. By reinforcing self-efficacy—the belief in one’s capacity to succeed—coaching fosters resilience, motivation, and long-term success


Conclusion

Coaching is a powerful tool for unlocking human potential, and Joanna Harding-Duggan Coaching is committed to guiding clients through transformative growth. By integrating science backed coaching principles with a compassionate approach, Joanna Harding-Duggan Coaching fosters real and lasting change. Whether for professionals, students, or businesses, coaching provides the clarity, confidence, and tools needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced world.

For more information, visit jhdcoaching.com and explore how coaching can help you or your organization achieve its full potential.


References:


ADHD Coaches Organization, n.d.  ADHD Coaching. https://www.adhdcoaches.org/about-adhd-coaching


Centre for ADHD Awareness, Canada (n.d.).  ADHD:  A significant Health Risk.  https://caddac.ca/wp-content/uploads/policy-paper_seriousness-of-ADHD-final-english.pdf?utm 


International Coaching Federation, 2025.  All Things Coaching.  https://coachingfederation.org/about


International Coaching Federation, 2025.  Core Competencies.  https://coachingfederation.org/credentials-and-standards/core-competencies




Statistics Canada (June 21, 2023).  Self-reported concussion in Canada:  A cross-sectional study.  https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-003-x/2023006/article/00002-eng.htm?utm

 



 
 
 

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