How Much Does ADHD Coaching Cost UK?
ADHD coaching in the UK is a dynamic and growing field, but it can also be a bit of a tricky beast to navigate. Unlike more regulated professions, coaching is an area where regulations aren’t as tight as possible. This means anyone can claim to be a coach without much scrutiny from government bodies or fact-checkers. As a result, the cost and quality of coaching services can vary widely, which can be overwhelming, especially for those of us with ADHD, who might impulsively decide to work with a coach without fully researching their qualifications or experience.
The Importance of Accreditation
When considering ADHD coaching, one of the most critical steps is to look into the coach’s background and accreditation. It's easy to get swept up in the enthusiasm of finding someone who seems like they might help, but it’s essential to ensure they are properly trained and certified. Look for coaches who have completed recognised programs and hold certifications from reputable organisations.
For example, the International Coach Federation (ICF) is one of the most respected accrediting bodies in the coaching world. ICF-certified coaches have undergone rigorous training, including a minimum of 60 hours of coach-specific education, 100 hours of coaching experience, and adherence to a strict code of ethics. This kind of certification ensures that the coach you’re working with is equipped to guide you safely and effectively.
My Journey to Coaching
Let me share a bit about my journey, so you understand where I’m coming from. My path to becoming an ADHD coach wasn’t linear, but it was fueled by a deep passion for understanding different ways of thinking and living. I began my career in primary education, where I developed a keen interest in the role of play in learning and how diverse minds thrive in unique environments. This interest eventually led me to work in corporate settings, focusing on learning and development for teams.
During this time, I was also pursuing various accreditations, including my certification with the International Coaching Federation. This certification required me to complete extensive training and practical coaching hours, ensuring that I could coach safely and effectively .
Now, I work solely as a coach, dedicating my time to helping clients on a one-to-one basis every day. My coaching hours now far exceed my time in primary education or corporate learning and development. And to back up all this experience, I also hold a psychology degree from Durham University, which deepens my understanding of the ADHD brain and human behavior.
The Investment: What You’re Paying For
When it comes to the financial side of things, you’ll quickly discover that coaching prices can vary significantly. This variation is largely due to the unregulated nature of the coaching industry in the UK. Because there are no strict guidelines or standard pricing models, coaches have the flexibility to set their rates based on their experience, expertise, and the value they believe they offer. This means you might find coaches charging anywhere from £50 to £150 per hour, or even more for highly experienced professionals .
Given this wide range in pricing, it’s essential to investigate what individual coaches are offering for their fees. Some questions to consider include: What kind of support do they provide outside of scheduled sessions? Do they offer any additional resources or tools? How much experience do they have, particularly with ADHD clients? Is their coaching style a good fit for your needs and personality?
Taking the time to explore these factors will help you determine whether a coach’s fees align with the value and support they can provide. This due diligence is especially important in an unregulated field, where anyone can claim to be a coach.
Access to Work: Government Grants for ADHD Coaching
One of the most significant barriers to coaching for many people is the cost. However, if you’re in the UK, you might be eligible for financial support through the government's Access to Work scheme. This program offers grants that can cover the cost of ADHD coaching, among other support services, for those who qualify.
Access to Work grants can take a lot of the financial pressure off, allowing you to fully dive into the coaching experience without worrying about the cost. This funding is particularly valuable because it enables you to invest in a coaching relationship that could make a profound difference in your life and work .
If you’re unsure about how to apply for Access to Work or whether you qualify, I’m here to help. I can guide you through the application process, ensuring that you have the best possible chance of securing funding. Remember, it’s worth checking if similar government funding is available in your country if you’re based outside the UK.
Choosing the Right Coach for You
When you’re considering investing in a coaching package, it’s essential to weigh a few key factors:
Background and Accreditation: As mentioned, always check your coach’s qualifications and certifications.
Accessibility: Can you reach out to them outside of coaching sessions if you need additional support?
Support Offered: What kind of extra support do they provide? Do they offer resources, follow-ups, or tools that can help you between sessions?
Track Record: How successful have they been with other clients? Testimonials and reviews can give you insights into their effectiveness.
Energy and Fit: Do they seem like a good match for you in terms of energy, communication style, and understanding of ADHD?
Experience: How long have they been coaching, and do they specialize in ADHD?
Final Thoughts
Choosing an ADHD coach is a deeply personal decision, and it’s important to approach it with care and consideration. Take the time to research, ask questions, and reflect on what you truly need from a coaching relationship. The right coach can make a significant impact on your life, helping you harness your strengths and navigate the challenges of ADHD with greater confidence and clarity.
Remember, you deserve a coach who understands you, supports you, and has the qualifications to guide you safely on your journey to growth and self-discovery.
All the best,
Rach xx
References:
International Coaching Federation (ICF) – Credential Requirements. Retrieved from ICF website.
Passmore, J. (2010). Excellence in Coaching: The Industry Guide. Kogan Page Publishers.
Grant, A. M. (2003). The impact of life coaching on goal attainment, metacognition, and mental health. Social Behavior and Personality: an international journal, 31(3), 253-264.
BACP: Coaching. Retrieved from BACP website.
ADHD Foundation: ADHD Coaching. Retrieved from ADHD Foundation.
UK Government Access to Work: Get support if you have a disability or health condition. Retrieved from Gov.UK website.