Academic coaching is a personalized support service designed to help neurodivergent students excel in their academic pursuits. It addresses the unique challenges faced by students with conditions such as ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, or non-diagnosed executive functioning challenges. Our team of expert coaches takes a client-centric and person-centered approach to ensure each student receives tailored guidance.

Through academic coaching, students can improve their executive function skills, enabling them to better navigate the demands of academic settings and reach their full potential. By working closely with our coaches, neurodivergent students can overcome feelings of being lost or overwhelmed and gain the confidence and skills necessary to succeed in their studies.

Academic coaching can benefit neurodivergent students aged 14 and above, catering to a wide range of learner profiles. It can be particularly helpful for students who are struggling with executive functioning challenges such as time management, organization, motivation, or study habits, which are often more pronounced in neurodivergent individuals.

• High school students: Academic coaching supports high school students in developing effective study habits, setting goals, and staying on track with their coursework. It also aids in preparing them for standardized tests, college applications, and future academic pursuits.
• College students: College students can benefit from academic coaching by learning strategies to manage their more complex and demanding course loads, improving time management and organizational skills, and staying motivated amidst the challenges of higher education.
• Adult students: Adult students, who may be returning to education or pursuing new academic goals, can utilize academic coaching to help balance their studies with work, family, and other commitments, as well as to refresh or refine essential study skills.
• Students transitioning from high school to college: Academic coaching is valuable for students navigating the shift from high school to college, equipping them with the necessary skills to adapt to a new learning environment, increased independence, and higher academic expectations.
• Homeschoolers: Homeschooled students can benefit from academic coaching by receiving personalized support in developing a well-rounded education, refining their study habits, and setting achievable goals for their learning journey.

Coaching can also be valuable for high-achieving students who want to take their academic performance to the next level. Students who are transitioning from high school to college or from college to the workforce may benefit from coaching, as it can help them develop the skills needed to navigate these transitions successfully.

At Life Skills Advocate, we're more than just a coaching service. We’re a team dedicated to empowering neurodivergent college students through a personalized, student-focused approach. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Shared Experience With Neurodivergence: Our coaches, including our founder, who has personal experience with ADHD, understand the challenges of neurodivergence firsthand.
• Client-Centric Relationships: We prioritize building strong, judgment-free relationships with our clients, understanding their unique needs and goals.
• Holistic: We take a holistic approach, considering the well-being of the entire family, when applicable. We work closely with families to support the student’s development within their broader environment.
• We Go Beyond Executive Functioning: We specialize in supporting executive functioning skills while also addressing the social/emotional aspects of neurodivergence. Our coaching approach supports students in navigating both practical and social/emotional challenges, helping them manage school and life more effectively.
• Inclusive and Safe Environment: We provide a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ clients, understanding and respecting the unique intersection of neurodivergence and LGBTQIA+ issues. Our approach is tailored to support the whole person, recognizing the diverse challenges and experiences our clients may face.
• Gentle Accountability Support: We offer gentle, on-demand accountability support at no extra cost, keeping students motivated and on track.

The first step in our coaching process is to schedule a complimentary 30-minute discovery meeting to discuss your or your child's specific needs and goals. If coaching seems like a good fit, we then arrange a complimentary meet-and-greet to match you or your child with the right coach.

While our coaching program is not bound by a fixed duration, we recommend a minimum commitment of 12 weekly sessions to see meaningful change. However, the exact length of coaching varies based on individual goals and situations.

In the early sessions, we may use various assessment tools, including executive functioning assessments, readiness to change assessments, motivation scales, and "getting to know you" questionnaires. These assessments help us tailor the coaching experience to your or your child's unique needs.

Once paired with a coach, you or your child will participate in sessions customized to their needs. The process starts with setting clear goals and creating a coaching roadmap. Each session is designed to reflect on progress, address challenges, and practice strategies with your coach's guidance.

Depending on your situation, we may encourage parental or family involvement. This could include semi-regular meetings between you, your family, and the coach to ensure alignment throughout the process, adjust strategies based on input, and prepare everyone to support progress once coaching concludes.

Additionally, if needed, our coaches provide gentle accountability check-ins throughout the week to help you or your child stay on track and make progress in the desired areas.