The short version
| What they help with | What they don't do | |
|---|---|---|
| ADHD coach | Planning, starting, organising, priorities, habits, follow-through, decisions | Diagnose, prescribe, or treat mental health conditions |
| Therapist or psychotherapist | Anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, long-standing patterns and where they come from | Usually don't focus on day-to-day systems and planning |
| Counsellor | Talking through something hard, often a specific difficulty or life event | Diagnose or prescribe |
| ADHD clinic (psychiatrist or specialist nurse) | Assessment, diagnosis, medication and reviews | Ongoing practical coaching |
When a coach is the right place to start
- You know what needs doing but keep getting stuck starting it.
- Your work or business feels more chaotic than it should.
- You've tried a dozen ways of getting organised and none of them stuck.
- You're facing a big decision or turning point and going round in circles.
When a therapist or counsellor is the right place to start
- Low mood, anxiety or panic are getting in the way of everyday life.
- Something from the past keeps coming back and affecting you now.
- You're dealing with grief, trauma or a relationship breaking down.
If you're in crisis, contact your GP or NHS 111 first.
When you need an ADHD clinic
If you want a diagnosis or medication, that's a job for your GP and an ADHD service, either NHS or private. A coach can support you while you wait, but can't replace an assessment.
Can you have a coach and a therapist at the same time?
Yes, and it often works well. The therapist helps with how you feel and why; the coach helps with what you do on Monday morning. Just tell both of them, so they're not pulling in different directions.
How I fit in
I'm a coach, not a therapist. I'll help you untangle what's going on, sort your priorities and build a plan that fits how you work. If I think something needs a doctor or a therapist, I'll say so.
Want help with this?
I start with two 90-minute sessions for £750, by video or in person in Berkshire and Surrey. Send me a WhatsApp message and tell me what's going on.
Common questions
What is the difference between an ADHD coach and a therapist?
A coach helps with practical things like planning, starting tasks and staying organised. A therapist helps with mental health difficulties and where they come from. Many people benefit from both.
Can an ADHD coach diagnose ADHD?
No. Only a psychiatrist or specialist clinician can diagnose ADHD.
Should I see a coach or a counsellor for ADHD?
If the main problem is getting things done and staying organised, start with a coach. If low mood, anxiety or a difficult experience is the main problem, start with a counsellor or therapist.