01
What a coach does
Coaching commonly focuses on practical goals: planning, task initiation, time, accountability and external systems. Because the title is unregulated, the coach's training, boundaries and approach vary.
Agree one functional goal, how progress will be reviewed, confidentiality, fees, cancellation terms and what the coach does when distress or a clinical issue falls outside their scope. We do not promise a timeline or outcome.
02
What CBT is — and what the evidence covers
CBT is psychological therapy rather than practical coaching. The adult ADHD evidence base reviewed on this site concerns CBT-based programmes, with outcomes varying between studies and formats; it does not show that every therapy helps every person or that CBT replaces medication where medication is appropriate.
Ask a therapist about professional registration, ADHD experience, the structure being offered and which problems it aims to address. Access through the NHS and local availability varies, so discuss options with a GP or ADHD service.
03
Choosing support without confusing the claims
Choose coaching for practical structure only if the coach is clear about scope and does not present it as diagnosis or clinical treatment. Choose regulated psychological therapy when distress, anxiety, low mood or entrenched patterns are part of what needs attention.
Access to Work may assess applications for workplace support, but no diagnosis guarantees coaching or funding. Use the official application route and describe the barrier rather than treating a grant as part of the coaching offer.