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Comment by lukko | Hacker News Reader

I always wonder how this can be offered to patients when it seems like it should be classed as a medical device / service and regulated. It's intended for use in a named medical disorder and the guidance is very clear [1] (UK guidelines).

It is presented as having an evidence base with trained clinicians, but then the T+Cs state: 'Coaches are not trained or licensed medical professionals and are not qualified to diagnose, treat or manage any healthcare conditions, including behavioural health conditions.'

It makes me really sad to see so many companies like this - the services are always hugely expensive and target vulnerable people.

[1] https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/...

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That was my initial question as well. What are their qualifications for calling themselves ADHD coaches?

I'm bombarded with ads from ADHD apps since my diagnosis and I have tried many. None, none at all, have helped me. It's praying on the weak.

Exactly. Also, what is the intervention if the coaches cannot provide any advice or guidance[1] or manage the condition. I really think services like this should be regulated - I'm not sure why ADHD seems like a soft diagnosis and always slips through the net.

[1] (a) you acknowledge and understand that Coaches are not trained or licensed as medical professionals, and you agree to not request that Coaches provide you with any medical or healthcare advice or guidance, and (b) you agree to not rely upon any information provided to you by Coaches, content received through the Services or other Members when making important lifestyle, health, financial or relationship decisions.

“Cannot provide any advice or guidance” is an exaggeration; that quote excludes (a) medical advice and (b) important decisions. It does not, for example, exclude advice on making unimportant decisions, which is a skill that a lot of people with ADHD could use help improving!

The most common certifications for ADHD coaches are from ICF and NB-HWC, although those generic coaching certifications are not just for ADHD. There are targeted training schools / credentials from organizations like iACT as well that are focused on ADHD Coaching. Many of our coaches are trained at iACT but some also have PhDs/masters in ADHD-related fields in addition to generic coaching.

I'm sorry nothing has worked for you so far—I had similar experiences when I was diagnosed. If you're willing to, I'd love to do a free consultation with you to see if we (or any other program our coaches know of) can help! chris@shimmer.care

We also would like this to be covered through reimbursement, however we're not there yet (with ADHD Coaching) and right now it's primarily out of pocket. The team at Well Coaches and other organizations (including ICF, ACO) are working hard to progress the modality.

In terms of cost, we do try our best to keep costs as affordable as possible and have a needs-based financial aid program. We also do a lot of scholarship sponsorships whenever we can with our community partners. We hope to do more in the future (and some are coming in October!)

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