ADHD Patients May Benefit From "Coaches" and "Daily Organizers"

Coaching, use of daily organizers, and other psychosocial treatments may be of great value to people with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), according to Carol E. Watkins, M.D., of Northern Country Psychiatric Associates in Baltimore. Dr. Watkins presented her ideas at the U.S. Psychiatric & Mental Health Congress held in New Orleans in mid-November, 2006.

Aside from more traditional psychosocial treatments like individual psychotherapy, couples and family therapy, group therapy, and 12-Step groups, Dr. Watkins described several newer ones:

• ADHD Coaching: An ADHD coach talks to patients at regular, daily intervals and helps them define, clarify, and prioritize their goals. Since ADHD coaching is relatively new phenomenon and there is no regulation or oversight of this profession, it is important to make sure that coaches are trained and have experience. However, in a pinch, even a mentor, a sympathetic teacher, or a friend can serve as a coach, according to Dr. Watkins.
• Electronic Organizers: A seminar that teaches patients how to set up and use the organizer is often useful. Some seminars will also follow up with encouragement and reminders to use the planner, Dr. Watkins noted.
• A Professional Home Organizer: Such a person can be hired for patients with cluttered, disorganized homes. Professional organizers come to the house and help determine what can be thrown away. Professional organizers are not the same as cleaning services, Dr. Watkins stressed, "although a cleaning service is probably also a good idea," she said.