Subscribe (RSS)By Guest Blogger Jodi Sleeper-Triplett, MCC, SCAC
Coaching is an empowering tool for young adults, and especially powerful for those with AD/HD who need structure, support and strategies in their lives. Young adults yearn for independence, but they often lack the basic skills for success. Such life skills can be fostered through coaching and may include self-care, socialization, financial responsibility, and self-advocacy. As life coaches, we know that coaching is not a “one size fits all” process for adults and the same holds true for young adults. Each client is an individual, with unique needs. And the coaching process is designed to meet the needs of the individual.
Research has shown that youth with AD/HD struggle with executive functioning deficits, low self-esteem, poor social skills, and an overall sense of frustration. Executive functioning skills are the building blocks for success in the future. Coaching helps these individuals learn techniques for becoming more focused, staying on task, and improving time management and organizational skills. By initiating the coaching process with young people, we are able to increase motivation and build self-confidence and self-awareness. AD/HD coaching reaches beyond the framework of academics, providing valuable life skills needed for a productive and satisfying adult life.
Of utmost importance for prospective clients is choosing a coach who has experience working with youth and understands the intricacies of the AD/HD brain and co-existing conditions. It is essential for coaches to establish rapport with young clients, being mindful that this may take longer than with adult clients. Trust does not come easily for adolescents and young adults. The client must be ready, willing, and able to work independently with a coach. Younger clients are usually drawn to coaching once they understand that a coach is a non-judgmental, supportive partner and not a parental substitute.
Young adults with AD/HD have similar goals to adolescents living at home, with one critical difference – many are NOT at home and need to learn skills for independent living and time management in environments that are considerably unstructured. Coaches can help clients set guidelines and implement structures to assist them in daily life, both academic and personal. Coaching is a fabulous opportunity for growth and change in youth with AD/HD. It provides a resource for fostering independent thinking, creativity, self-confidence, and personal growth. Coaches have the rare privilege of being a catalyst in the lives of young people, guiding them toward a path of their own choosing and providing the tools to travel that path well-equipped, joyful, and ready to change the world!
For more information, contact Jodi at www.jstcoach.com
Tags: ADHD, coaching youngsters