Understanding the Language of ADHD, Neurodivergence & Coaching
This glossary explains some of the words and ideas you might come across in coaching, training, or conversations about ADHD and neurodivergence.
It’s here so you can pause, check, and make sense of things in your own time.
Every definition has been written with clarity and compassion to make information feel accessible, not overwhelming.
Understanding Neurodivergence
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
A type of neurodivergence that affects focus, attention, memory, emotional regulation, and energy levels. It looks different for everyone — and includes both challenges and unique strengths.
Neurodivergence / Neurodivergent
Neurotypical
Describes brains that function in ways considered “typical” or “expected” by society.
Neurodiverse
Refers to a group of people with different types of brains — a mix of neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals.
AuDHD
A term used for people who are both autistic and have ADHD.
Emotions, Energy & Regulation
Dysregulation
When your emotions or nervous system feel out of balance — feeling overwhelmed, shut down, overstimulated, or unable to calm down.
Emotional Intensity
Experiencing emotions more deeply or strongly than others might. This can include feelings of happiness as well as sadness.
Emotional Regulation
Finding ways to understand, express, respond to and recover from strong emotions. It can be more challenging for ADHDers, but it also brings powerful self-awareness.
Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)
A form of intense emotional pain triggered by real or perceived rejection, criticism, or failure. It’s common in ADHD and can be deeply distressing.
Coaching Concepts
Coaching
A supportive, non-judgemental process to explore your goals, challenges, and next steps with someone who listens, asks thoughtful questions, and helps you move forward on your own terms.
Coaching Supervision
A professional reflective space for coaches to ensure their practice remains ethical, safe, and effective for clients.
Psychoeducation
Information that helps you understand your brain, emotions, or behaviours — for example, learning about executive functioning or sensory processing in ADHD.
Reflective Practice
Taking time to think about experiences, decisions, or actions — helps coaches grow professionally and stay grounded.
Strengths-Based
An approach that focuses on what’s going well — your skills, values, and qualities — rather than what’s “wrong” or needs “fixing.”
Everyday Language in ADHD Coaching
Executive Function
Mental skills that help you organise, plan, remember, manage time, and stay focused.
ADHD can make these harder, but people often find creative workarounds and strengths, too.
Masking
When someone hides or suppresses their true neurodivergent self to fit in or avoid judgment. This can be exhausting and may lead to burnout.
Burnout
A state of physical, emotional, or mental exhaustion — often caused by masking, chronic stress, or managing constant demands.
Pacing
Adjusting your energy and tasks throughout the day or week to avoid burnout or overwhelm.
Self-Advocacy
Knowing what you need and being able to speak up for yourself — a common theme in ADHD coaching.
Inclusion & Identity
Intersectionality
Understanding how different parts of someone’s identity (like race, gender, class, or disability) combine to shape their experience of the world.
Trauma-Informed
An approach that recognises the impact of trauma and creates safe, respectful, empowering spaces that avoid causing further harm.
Neuroaffirming
An inclusive approach that sees neurodivergent ways of thinking and being as valid and valuable — not something to fix.
Nervous System-Informed
Considers how your body responds to safety, stress, and connection — helping you understand emotional and physical reactions.
Professional Context
CPD (Continuing Professional Development)
Ongoing learning and training that keep professionals up to date and deepen their understanding.
EMCC (European Mentoring and Coaching Council)
A professional body that sets ethical standards for coaching and mentoring.
Accreditation through the EMCC demonstrates quality, safety, and professionalism.
Discovery Call
A free, no-pressure chat (usually 20 minutes) to explore whether coaching feels right for you.
Self & Growth
Impostor Syndrome
Feeling like you’re not good enough or don’t belong, even when you are capable and successful — common in ADHD and other neurodivergent experiences.
Self-Identified (Neurodivergent)
Recognising traits of ADHD or neurodivergence in yourself, even without a formal diagnosis.
Self-identification is valid and based on lived experience.
Polyvagal Theory
A framework that helps explain how your nervous system reacts to safety or threat, often used in trauma-informed or body-aware coaching.
Double Empathy Problem
A theory suggesting misunderstandings between neurodivergent and non-neurodivergent people arise from both sides — not just from the neurodivergent person.
If there’s a word or concept you’d like me to add here, please let me know — I want this space to grow with you.
Ready to Begin?
You’re welcome exactly as you are — no preparation, no pressure.
If you’re wondering whether coaching could help, you’re very welcome to get in touch or book a free discovery call.
You don’t need to have a plan; we can figure it out together.
It’s simply a chance to ask questions, chat things through, and see if this feels like the right fit for you.
