Meet Barbara

Barbara Tuckel, PhD, AACC, has a doctorate in speech-communication from Penn State University and is a certified ADHD coach through ADDCA (the ADD Coach Academy). ADDCA is internationally recognized and fully accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and the Professional Association of ADHD Coaches (PAAC). Barbara is on the board of directors for Flour4Purpose, a non-profit baking business that trains neurodiverse adults in high-level baking skills and sells their products at retail and online.

Why I Became An ADHD Coach

I spent over 20 years as a qualitative researcher and communications coach at InVision Inc. in Stamford, Conneticut. During my semi-retirement I continued to coach teens and adults, particularly those who were too quiet or too talkative. At that time, I was blessed with grandchildren, two of whom are ADHDers. I witnessed the challenges they faced with everyday routines like completing homework or keeping their rooms tidy. This sparked my interest in becoming an ADHD coach and serving ADHDers over the age of 18.

My Beliefs About Being An ADHD Coach

As an ADDCA-trained coach, I understand that my clients face unique challenges and difficulties that affect their everyday lives. But I also know that ADHDers have special strengths that are not shared by neurotypical individuals. I work with clients as equals, drawing on their strengths to develop a robust self concept that is not dependent on single performances or examples of productivity in certain areas. I look at my clients' "wins," moments they're proud of, to help identify their underlying strengths and values. These strengths and values help clients test out new behaviors, often leading them to move beyond the goals they've set for themselves.