Coaching for Neurodiversity Starts with Inclusion: A Lesson from Supporting a Client with Dyslexia

Yesterday, I felt genuinely happy when a new client shared that the reason for choosing me was because I am a neurodiverse coach. The client mentioned being dyslexic and possibly having adhd. As soon as I heard that, I immediately adjusted my approach.

Instead of sending a long written coaching agreement after the session and relying only on text, I slowed down and verbally explained the important points first. This created a smoother, more comfortable start to the coaching relationship.

After the session, I took time to learn more about how to make coaching more effective for clients with dyslexia. Here are some insights that stood out.

• shorter questions and one idea at a time

• visual explanations and shared screens

• allowing extra processing time

• summarizing key points out loud

• offering alternatives to long writing such as voice notes or bullet points

• focusing on strengths like creativity and big picture thinking

These simple adjustments can create a more inclusive and empowering coaching space.

I hope more coaches explore ways to make sessions supportive for all learning styles. Neurodivergent clients bring depth, creativity and insight, and inclusive coaching helps those strengths shine.

#coaching #neurodiversity #dyslexia #adhd #inclusion #inclusiveleadership #interculturalcoaching #executivecoaching