This month we launched an ADHD Coaching Circle. As far as we know, this is the first international gathering of coaches to learn how Nature Based Coaching can help ADHD adults.
In this story you can learn about ADHD, nature coaching, and access a free copy of a new natural model for working with ADHD adults.
Too many ADHD adults are missing out on the benefits of coaching
The coaching world is finally waking up to the unique value that neurodivergent people bring to the world. The number of professional trainings is increasing, as well as other support tools including psychological education.
ADHD coaching emerged from the work of Hallowell and Ratey (1994) and has grown into a recognised profession with evidence of positive outcomes for adults (Ahmann & Saviet, 2024).
However, there is much more to do, and too many people are missing out on the benefits of coaching. The Natural Coaching Company has been working with ADHD adults for over five
years, as well as people with other forms of neurodiversity including autism.
We find this work richly rewarding, and wish to share some of our experiences with other coaches so that together we can better support all our clients.
Alongside the challenges of ADHD are distinctive strengths
According to scientific consensus, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition affecting around 3% of adults globally. Many also experience co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or autism.
ADHD arises from a mix of genetic and environmental factors. It is characterised by differences in brain development and neurotransmitter regulation – particularly in systems linked to motivation, focus and reward.
Adults with ADHD often experience challenges with:
- Executive function: difficulty with organisation, time management, sustaining focus, and follow-through.
- Emotional intensity: heightened sensitivity, quick
frustration, and difficulty with emotional regulation. - Restlessness and distractibility: alternating with periods of hyperfocus, a deep state of absorption in tasks of interest.
- Masking: concealing traits to ‘fit in’ at work or socially, which can drain energy and limit potential.
Yet alongside the challenges are distinctive strengths: creativity, intuition, empathy, energy, and resilience.
“Just as biodiversity is essential for a healthy ecosystem, neurodiversity contributes to the rich tapestry of human abilities.”
Nature can support the management of ADHD
A growing body of research shows that contact and connection with Nature is essential for human health and wellbeing, and can support the management of ADHD.
- Attention and Stress Regulation: ADHD adults report feeling calmer, clearer, and more focused outdoors, describing experiences of “peacefulness”, “curiosity”, and “invigoration”.
- Motivation and Meaning: Green places often provide a ‘secure base’ for experimentation, play, and connection to greater meaning.
- Creativity and Dopamine Flow: Exposure to natural places is particularly helpful for ADHD adults prone to getting ‘stuck’ in hyperfocus or daydreams.
- Compassion and Connection: Experiencing natural beauty supports the development of self-acceptance, resilience, and purpose – and can inspire us to give back to Nature.
The ‘PEACE Model’
Over the next few months the coaches will be pairing up, and providing their feedback on their work. To help them we have developed the ‘PEACE Model’ for coaching ADHD adults with nature.
The coaching circles are invited to use our PEACE Model in their work with ADHD and neurotypical clients. The model offers a framework for coaching clients in partnership with the natural world – supporting attention, emotion, creativity, and purpose.
I’m keen to learn how best to adapt my approach when working with clients who have ADHD compared with those who don’t, and to recognise where those differences matter most. – Coaching Circle member
The model is based on the science of nature connectedness, professional coaching competencies, and the positive psychology of ADHD. It is a way to practise what we preach through our own presence, empathy, and compassionate action.
Boosting confidence in how to introduce nature into the conversation is ongoing work for me. – Coaching Circle member
If you would like to receive a copy of the PEACE Model for free, in return for feedback about how you find using it with your clients, please contact us.