EF coaching is a specialised type of support actively working on developing strong executive functions.

What are Executive Functions?

Executive functions (EF) are a set of skills located in the prefrontal cortex of our brains the help us (‘execute’) everyday tasks. They help us manage such areas as planning, organising, making decisions, filtering distractions and controlling impulses. We rely on executive functions for everything from taking a shower to packing a bag or completing work/school assignments.

As Individuals, we are not born with all these skills, rather they develop over our lifespan and on average reach full maturity around the age of 25. The development of executive skills is crucial for learning, development, positive behaviour and good decision making.

We all have strengths and weaknesses in our executive functions and people who have executive function challenges might find some everyday tasks more difficult. These could include:

Keeping track of time
Conceptulising how long a task will take
Making plans
Getting started on a task
Staying focused during a task

For many people with these issues, it is not unusual to become frustrated and discouraged, especially when they feel their challenges can be viewed as laziness or lack of ability.

How Executive Function Coaching Helps

Our brains are not fixed. Genetics play a part in our development and abilities, however most of the skills we learn, and the habits we develop, are due to our experiences and environment.

Neuroplasticity is the brains’ ability to adapt and change our habits, beliefs and attitudes by forming new neural pathways. This process is key to helping us improve our executive functioning.

Watch this handy video to find out more about neuroplasticity. https://youtu.be/Rx6kjzGPQ0c?si=yyYXz9C24mwfHAbZ

The good news is, that while the brain is most malleable during childhood and adolescence, and it is during this time that we can have the most impact on improving executive functions, these skills can be developed throughout the lifespan.

EF coaching is a specialised type of support actively working on developing strong executive functions.
Helping children and adults to:

• Improve time management skills, and better regulate schedules
• Create systems for prioritising goals, initiating tasks, and turning procrastination into action
• Improve daily organisational habits and systems
• Develop stress management techniques for managing emotional dysregulation

What to expect from Executive Function Coaching

EF coaching is a collaborative and interactive process:

• We will go through an initial assessment of your needs at the beginning of coaching, looking at EF strengths and weaknesses
• Together we will set goals and develop a tailored strategy to work towards achieving those goals
• We will typically meet weekly for one hour online via Zoom
• At the beginning of coaching we may schedule additional shorter, catch-up, sessions through the week to monitor progress.
• EF coaching can be short or long-term (depending on needs), but preferably not less than three months and longer where habit change is required.
• Progress for goal attainment is monitored and tracked along the way.

Executive Function Coaching with Me.

As an executive function coach, my strengths lie in my ability to understand and address the unique challenges my clients and their families face, and I am led by their needs and wishes. Above all else, I feel the coaching relationship is key, and I aim to establish a relationship based on trust and provide an open and non-judgemental space. This means working together to set personalised, realistic, and achievable goals and strategies. Understanding that change is not always easy or linear, I am adept at adjusting my coaching techniques, working creatively with you to create an evolving, personalised plan that works and is sustainable for you.

Executive Function assessment tools

 

Contact Me

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