So what exactly is “executive function coaching?” I wanted to write this post in a Q&A format to answer some commonly asked questions. Executive functioning is an area I feel passionately about as EF skills are critical for our daily actions and decisions, so I am excited to offer this service as part of my private practice. Although executive function coaching is not regulated at a state or national level, I use my training, certification, and expertise as a speech language pathologist to provide EF coaching services. This post highlights EF coaching; for more information on what executive functioning is, see this post.

1. What is executive function coaching?
   • A collaborative process between the “SLP/coach” and “client” where I provide practical tools and evidence-based education to optimize executive function skills depending on that client’s needs. Areas addressed include EF domains such as organization, attention, time management, and planning/scheduling. My goal is for each client to have more streamlined, consistent, and efficient systems to reduce mental overwhelm for improved quality of life. The tools I provide are completely tailored to each individual and his/her personal goals. For each session, I aim to provide at least one tool or strategy that clients can immediately start implementing in their everyday lives. Sessions can be in-person, virtual, or a combination of the two. 
2. Who benefits from executive function coaching?
   • In short, anyone who wants to develop better systems and get more organized with daily tasks! This could be a neurodivergent individual (e.g., adult with ADHD) or neurotypical individual (e.g., busy working mom of three). There are many reasons why executive functioning may be challenging whether that’s a difference in how your brain is naturally wired such as with ADHD, the increased mental load of raising children, increased schoolwork when entering college, or increased responsibilities in a work environment. 
   • If you have difficulty keeping your calendar organized, feel frequently overloaded by your to-do list, or feel scattered when it comes to home or work tasks, these are possible indicators that you could benefit from EF coaching. 
3. What is the difference between EF coaching and targeting EF skills in speech therapy? 
   • Typically I target executive function skills as part of speech therapy after a diagnosed neurological injury such as a TBI, stroke, or multiple sclerosis. Coaching is designed for individuals who do not necessarily fall into the bucket of having a neurological “injury” but still struggle with executive function skills on a day to day basis.  
4. What might I do with clients during an EF coaching session? 
   • Examples include:
     1. Develop a system for organizing your to do list 
     2. Implement organization tools to prepare for work meetings or presentations
     3. Streamline home management/household tasks 
     4. Implement task prioritization strategies for better time management 
   • For all of the strategies/tools I provide, we focus on learning, applying, then adapting as needed to match that client’s daily life and needs. 
5. How do I learn more?
   • If you have questions or know someone who could benefit from EF coaching, reach out to me via email (bethany@atlantaspeechrehab.com). I’m happy to talk more!