Petra Earnshaw

COACHING

ADHD and adoption coaching for parents and adoptees

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ADHD Life Coaching

Do I need a formal ADHD diagnosis to work with you?

No you do not need a formal diagnosis.  Many people seek coaching because they experience symptoms of ADHD or related challenges and want to improve their quality of life. 

What are the benefits of ADHD Life Coaching?

ADHD Life Coaching can help you develop better organisational skills, improve time management, enhance focus, and build self-esteem. It can also help you create strategies to manage impulsivity and emotional regulation.

How will I know if ADHD Life Coaching is working for me?

You should start to see improvements in the areas you are working on, such as better organisation, reduced procrastination, and achieving your goals.  Regular feedback sessions with your ADHD Life Coach can help you track your progress. 

What other resources do you recommend for managing ADHD?

I can provide resources on certain ADHD related topics.  I can also recommend books and share articles if the client requests this. 

Adoption Coaching

What are the benefits of Adoption Coaching?

It provides a safe space where adoption is understood in all its complexity. Coaching can help you process experiences, explore identity, gain new perspectives, and strengthen resilience without needing to explain or justify your story.

General Questions

What happens during the coaching process?

During our session, we will discuss your goals and challenges together.  I will help you develop strategies to overcome obstacles and achieve your objectives.  Sessions are client-led, meaning that you bring the topics you want to discuss.  

Do you offer virtual ADHD Life Coaching sessions?

I offer virtual coaching sessions via Zoom. Phone sessions are also available.

How long does the coaching process take?

The duration varies depending on individual needs, but most clients work with a coach for three to six months to see significant progress.

Can I contact my coach between sessions?

Clients are welcome to contact me via email or WhatsApp between sessions. However, messages that require a more detailed or in-depth response will need to be addressed within a coaching session. I aim to respond to messages within 48 hours, Monday to Friday. Please note that I am unavailable at weekends (except for pre-booked coaching sessions) and during holiday periods. (See Support Outside of Coaching for further details.)

How should I prepare for a coaching session?

It's helpful to come with a clear idea of what you want to discuss.  There is the option to receive a preparation form before each session to help you organise your thoughts and goals. 

What are your fees and payment options? 

The fees differ based on the selected package. Payment options include monthly instalments, payment at the time of booking, or full payment for longer-duration packages.

Support Outside of Coaching 

While ADHD coaching can be incredibly supportive, it’s important to know that coaching is not a crisis or emergency service.

I am not able to provide urgent mental health support, and there may be times when I’m unavailable to respond immediately. If you are in distress or feel you need urgent help, please reach out to a service that is equipped to support you right away.

Here are some free and confidential services you can contact:

📞 Samaritans – 116 123  
Available 24/7. You can call them any time to talk about anything you're going through.

📱 Shout – Text "SHOUT" to 85258  
A 24/7 text service for anyone in crisis, feeling overwhelmed, or needing support.

🏥 NHS – 111* 
For urgent but non-emergency medical advice.

🚨 Emergency Services – 999  
If you or someone else is in immediate danger.

Please take care of yourself and seek help if you need it. You’re not alone, and support is available.

If you have any questions about what coaching can and can’t support you with, I’m happy to talk more during our sessions or by email.