Looking for an ADHD coach for my 20 yr son

[Yellowtomato]

My son turns 21 in July and he suffers from ADD predominantly inattentive. He was diagnosed in 5th grade and has been on Adderall and Vivace over the years. He can’t take concerta because he’s allergic. He functioned on meds until his junior year in high school and then he started self-medicating with pot. He was sooo skinny no appetite. Very difficult time. With help from all involved he was able to graduate. Since graduation he has struggled in community college and had difficult time finding work and keeping it. He has a part time job now but unsure how long it will last. I have encouraged him to look into a trade. To learn a skill. He can no longer tolerate his stimulants. Too skinny!! I think he would benefit from an ADHD coach or therapist who can work with him on life skill and coach him. At this point, we need all the tricks and strategies for dealing with ADD and not taking meds. We live in Long Beach, CA. If anyone knows of a therapist or coach who specializes in working with these issues, please let me know.

[Stoneman60]

I am so sorry to here about your struggles. I grew up in Long Beach (shout out to Millikan RAMs!) and now live in South Florida. My now adult son was diagnosed with ADHD as I was recently at age 60. I have since learned my sister and brother were both diagnosed, never spoke about it and addressed it in very different ways.

Your idea to focus on a trade is outstanding one. For some reason in the US the trades are not considered for careers, unlike the rest of the world where they are held in high regard. Not everyone is cut out for college. In the trades the pay is great, there is a shortage, and it does play into the ability of many ADHDers to hyperfocus on things they enjoy doing - good luck.

I'm in the process of seeking a counselor (not a coach) - its not easy. Many folks profess to have skills, when they in fact have no direct experience. Other have experience only with children and adolescents - adults have very different needs. Have you asked your primary care physician for a recommendation? Or online resources: pyschologytoday.com; chadd.org/professional-dire...; or your insurance provider?

I am learning there is no easy way to find the right resource - you have to make a lot of phone calls and ask specific questions. I'm still in the hunt. Good luck.

[Yellowtomato in reply to Stoneman60]

Thank you🌸