Questions for an Executive Functioning Coach
If you’ve been reading the blogs, you’d know I’m a big proponent of behavioral strategies for ADHD. In addition to medication, there are so many strategies that work in reducing the symptoms. Unlike medications, you don’t need a doctor’s prescription, and the more you use them, the better they work. It’s like building a trail in the woods. The more you walk and maintain the trail, the better the trail will work for you.
One of the ways people manage their ADHD is by hiring an executive functioning coach. Andrea Brunsman, M.Ed., is just that. She helps anyone, from executives to students, in improving their executive functioning.
What is executive functioning?
Executive function is made up of 3 parts: the ability to effectively sustain information in one’s working memory, maintain focus and attention, and exhibit self-control. Some people struggle in one area, and some struggle in all 3 areas.
What is the difference between executive functioning coaching and therapy for ADHD?
Coaching sessions occur more frequently, typically twice a week. It takes the ideas developed in therapy and helps a person put them into action over time. Coaching helps clients gain control of their lives by developing and using strategies tailored to their specific needs, enabling them to address areas of growth that are unique to the way their ADHD manifests within themselves. Coaching helps them learn how to self-reflect and evaluate the effectiveness of their strategies, identifying when and how to adjust them to grow further and improve.
Which strategy do you think has been the most beneficial for your clientele?
First and foremost, my coaching is individualized to meet each person’s unique needs. Clients like getting control over their lives when they learn organizational tools, particularly by using their calendar effectively, developing the ability to self-reflect, and learning how to prioritize their tasks.
How would you differentiate your services from those of a professional organizer?
An organizer does the work for you, but as your coach, I teach you how to do the work and organize your life yourself. The best thing I can do is put myself out of a job by teaching you the skills that you need to independently use to be organized and in control of your life.
What is the best advice you could give someone struggling with executive functioning problems?
Take a moment to pause, breathe, and think. Gather your thoughts. Thinking through them instead of acting impulsively or procrastinating solves a lot of problems. Find a place where you can truly think and focus without distraction.
What would you say is the most common error people with executive functioning problems make?
Giving up. Thinking there is no hope, thinking that their life will always be in disarray. There is hope. Coaching can inspire you, build your confidence, and help you take control of your life.
What books would you recommend for anyone looking to improve their overall executive functioning?
ADHD 2.0 was a helpful read. Smart but Scattered has been highly recommended, and I just started reading it. Atomic Habits is great for learning the importance of building habits. The Master series by Thibault Meurisse is helpful: Master Your Focus, Master Your Time. If you like to add your spirituality, June Hunt's books on anxiety, fear, worry, and decision making are helpful. Often times ADHD and anxiety are linked.
What life or work experience has helped you to help people with executive functioning issues?
I, too, have struggled with executive function after having radiation due to breast cancer. My brain acted very differently than ever before. I used to think linearly and in an organized way. My working memory was strong, and my brain worked in a very efficient manner. All of a sudden, three weeks into radiation, my brain became scattered, looking more like a scribble pattern. I had to use all the strategies that I have been teaching clients for years. I honed in on these strategies, realizing their importance more than ever. Needing the time to think was the number one most successful strategy for me. With the brain fog that came with radiation, I needed more time to think things through. This used to come naturally. We can improve our brains. We can help them grow. We do not have to be stuck feeling out of sorts, disorganized, and unprepared. Instead, we can be confident and in control of our lives.
Big thanks to Andrea. If you have any questions about executive functioning and executive functioning coaching, she can be reached at
