ADHD Coach vs Therapist
Both coaches and therapists can help you thrive with ADHD, but they offer different types of support. Here's how to decide which is right for you.
You want practical strategies and accountability for managing daily life with ADHD.
- Building time management and organization systems
- Creating accountability for goals
- Developing executive function strategies
- Career and professional development
- Breaking tasks into manageable steps
- Building consistent routines and habits
- Navigating life transitions with ADHD
- Leveraging ADHD strengths
You need help with emotional challenges, mental health conditions, or deeper psychological work.
- Addressing anxiety or depression alongside ADHD
- Processing past trauma or difficult experiences
- Managing emotional dysregulation
- Relationship issues related to ADHD
- Self-esteem and identity challenges
- Co-occurring conditions (OCD, eating disorders, etc.)
- Medication management (psychiatrists)
- Deep behavioral change work
Side-by-Side Comparison
A detailed look at the differences between ADHD coaches and therapists
| Category | ADHD Coach | Therapist |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Building practical skills, systems, and habits for daily functioning | Addressing emotional challenges, trauma, and mental health conditions |
| Approach | Action-oriented, goal-setting, accountability partnerships | Therapeutic techniques, processing emotions, behavioral interventions |
| Training & Credentials | Certified through coaching programs (ICF, PAAC, ACO) | Licensed mental health professionals (LCSW, LPC, PhD, PsyD) |
| Can Diagnose ADHD | Some can (psychologists, psychiatrists) | |
| Can Prescribe Medication | Psychiatrists and some nurse practitioners only | |
| Insurance Coverage | Rarely covered | Often covered by insurance |
| Session Structure | Goal review, skill-building, action planning | Exploration, processing, therapeutic interventions |
| Typical Session Length | 30-60 minutes | 45-60 minutes |
| Cost Range | $75-$250 per session | $100-$300 per session (often covered by insurance) |
Can I Work With Both?
Absolutely! Many people with ADHD benefit from working with both a coach and a therapist. They serve complementary roles:
Therapist handles:
- - Processing emotions and past experiences
- - Managing anxiety, depression, or trauma
- - Understanding your patterns and triggers
- - Medication management (if applicable)
Coach handles:
- - Building daily systems and routines
- - Accountability for goals
- - Practical problem-solving
- - Career and productivity strategies
Pro tip: If you're not sure where to start, consider beginning with a therapist if you're dealing with significant emotional challenges, or a coach if your main struggles are practical and organizational.
Key Considerations
Budget & Insurance
If cost is a concern, check if your insurance covers therapy. Coaching is rarely covered but may be tax-deductible or payable through HSA/FSA.
Time & Commitment
Both typically involve weekly sessions. Coaching often has a defined timeframe (3-6 months), while therapy may be longer-term.
Credentials Matter
Look for certified coaches (ICF, PAAC) and licensed therapists. ADHD-specific training is valuable for both.