A Description of a Successful ADHD Coaching Journey

by Cynthia Hammer, MSW

You and I are climbing a mountain, hiking side-by-side.

You carry a heavy backpack that contains all your life burdens caused by undiagnosed ADHD. As we start up the hillside, I question you, learning about the items in your pack and how they got there.

I discuss the journey ahead and describe what reaching the summit will feel like. I help you establish and achieve important milestones as we work toward your ultimate goal--the mountain's pinnacle. I provide support and guidance when you experience fatigue and discouragement, bringing you renewed energy and confidence.

Periodically, I ask you to reflect on how far you have come.

We celebrate what you have achieved. I motivate you to keep moving forward by encouraging your continued growth. As we climb the mountain, your pack lightens. You discard bad habits, replacing them with helpful insights and behaviors. You walk more sprightly and energetically and are eager to reach the peak. It’s in the near distance and seems attainable.

As your burdens lessen, you stride with confidence and high self-esteem.

You notice several giant, colorful balloons (representing your newly found strengths, abilities, and passions). You pull them to you. Your journey has become exciting and fun, no longer arduous and stressful. Hiking the final distance to the pinnacle is satisfying and rewarding.

Your backpack of burdens has vanished.

You marvel at your boundless energy and creativity. You stand proudly and confidently on the summit, holding, in your upraised hand, your large bouquet of colorful balloons. You shout with strength and vigor, " I love myself. I love my abilities. I love my life. "You have many choices and new things to experience and are eager for your future.

You are ready to leave me. With the next gust of wind, you leap into the air, holding your balloons. The wind lifts you, and you are off to new and wondrous adventures.