Danny Doyle

Biography

Hey! I'm Danny. I grew up in the (VERY HOT) Phoenix, Arizona area and have recently moved to Washington with my wife, three cats and my trumpet. People would call me an 'extrovert' but my behavior will clearly tell you I enjoy the company of my own home surrounded by the comforts of my family and special interests.

Growing up through middle-school and high-school I noticed a huge disconnect between the way I experienced the world and how those around me experienced the world. It wasn't until my late 20s and early 30s that I realized I likely was neurodivergent and have ADHD. I don't identify, nor have a diagnosis of autism, but I do consistently share similar experiences in the world as those who do.

At 18 years old I started my professional work in the ABA therapy world. From there I have worked in a variety of relevant jobs including: Paraprofessional in both autism and behavior focused classrooms, job coaching, habilitation provider, 1 on 1 aide and social/life skills instructor for autistic adults.

I have worked numerous other jobs including a one on one private music instructor and have specifically worked with neurodivergent students as well as a community college professor of trumpet where I was the primary instructor for individuals with autism.

What are some of your special interests?

Music: I am professional musician and play trumpet, guitar as well as producing my own electronic music. Music is not only a special interest, it is a PASSION. Music has the ability to connect people who don't speak the same language and can connect us to emotions that are deeply embedded in our subconscious.

Video Games: If I'm not working or playing music I am probably playing video games. I spend most of my time playing the latest RPG, survival or cozy game. From Pokémon to Fortnite, I will play almost any genre. One of my goals this next year is to build a mid to high-end gaming PC so that I can enjoy the newest games with the BEST graphics.

Neurodiversity: While learning about my own neurodiversity I found that I had a passion for understanding it. At first I sought EVERY book I could find. Slowly through the years this has developed to listening to podcasts about all aspects of ADHD, autism and OCD.

What does executive functioning mean to you?

Executive functioning, for me, comes with an understanding that it is a skill. The brain is a very complex and large organ. When I think about executive functioning I think of a muscle that needs constant attention and learning to shape and mold to what is needed for myself to accomplish the goals that I want in life. When I approach executive functioning from this more organic/scientific point of view it allows me to view it more impartially.

What is a strategy you use with clients and use personally?

One of my favorite strategies that has found the most success more recently is to set a small timer for a larger task I am unmotivated to do. This can be as small as 5 minutes. With that guaranteed time frame set I find that my brain is better able to manage the unmotivating task as there is a clear end in sight. I will often pair this with a motivational reward for myself at the end - time with a video game, a snack or simply going back to bed or my couch.

How has your personal experience and professional development impacted your coaching?

Personally my journey has been one of a ship without a captain. I found myself in my younger adult years struggling with things that my peers and friends did not. I had difficulty keeping my room clean. I struggled to find my way through adult life. It wasn't until I learned of executive functioning that I was able to learn alternative strategies that I continue to use to this day to help manage my life and achieve the outcomes I desire. 

How would you describe your personal approach to coaching?

My personal coaching style is one of understanding and empathy. Learning to navigate the world can be hard and can sometimes feel defeating. It's also important to honor your own personal values while working to accomplish your goals and ambitions.

Coaching will begin with a deep-dive into what makes you unique and what motivates you the most in life. We will work to find the most immediate needs to have the most impact on your life while also identifying more long-term goals.

I believe in accountability without shame. Together we will problem-solve the challenges you may face while also building upon the successes that you accomplish.

Which of LSA's core values resonates the most with you, and how do you incorporate it with your clients?

ALL of the core values are SO important! Most recently I have found myself being a "courageous contrarian".

con·trar·i·an
/kənˈtrerēən/

Opposing or rejecting popular opinion; going against current practice.

ADHD, autism, OCD and other neurodivergence are more understood today than they ever have been. Everyday I am challenging what is popular opinion regarding the neurological differences that exist in a variety of humans.

From a coaching perspective this means finding creative ways to engage with the world so you can navigate it best.

Do you have an area of coaching you specialize in?

I specialize in assisting individuals with accepting their own unique brains. While we all face challenges everyday all of us also have unique gifts, strengths and positive traits that make us who we are.

I also specialize in career-focused coaching. Being neurodivergent in the workplace is a unique experience that offers additional challenges. Learning to self-advocate in the workplace can help relieve SO much stress and allow us to be more productive and efficient.

Additionally, managing our basic life tasks can be overwhelming. I specialize in finding creative ways to overcome those obstacles.