We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dr. Janina. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Dr. Janina below.

Dr. Janina, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you tell us about a time where you or your team really helped a customer get an amazing result?

I worked with a client, who had struggled with her ADHD throughout her life. When we first started working together, she was still in the mindset that her ADHD was something to fight against, something that she needed to ‘get rid of’ in order to be successful. Like many people with ADHD, she felt like she was constantly working against herself and didn’t know how to manage the symptoms in a way that worked for her.

We began by shifting the narrative. Instead of focusing on eliminating ADHD, we focused on accepting it as part of who she was. I helped her understand that ADHD wasn’t a flaw or something to be ashamed of, but rather a natural part of her unique way of thinking and experiencing the world. Over time, she began to accept her ADHD as part of her story, and that’s when things started to click. She stopped viewing her brain as something broken and began working with it instead of against it.

We then implemented practical strategies to manage her ADHD in ways that played to her strengths. For example, we developed routines that worked with her natural tendencies and created systems to help her stay organized without feeling overwhelmed. What was most rewarding was seeing the transformation in her mindset, from self-criticism and frustration to empowerment and self-acceptance.

She later shared that working with me was life-changing for her. She had been diagnosed with ADHD as a young girl, but it wasn’t until our work together that she truly understood and accepted the diagnosis. She expressed that I was the first person who gave her permission to embrace her brain as it was, rather than constantly looking for a ‘fix.’ This experience wasn’t just about coaching; it was about helping her create a new relationship with herself.

Today, she is thriving. She continues to build upon the foundation we created, and her progress has been incredibly meaningful to her. She told me that the work we did together didn’t just change how she approached her ADHD, but how she approached life itself. That feedback is incredibly fulfilling for me as a coach, because it shows how powerful acceptance and self-compassion can be in overcoming challenges like ADHD.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m an ADHD and Executive Functioning Coach with a Ph.D. in Psychology. My background and experience span multiple continents, including the United States, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, and Australia, which gives me a unique, global perspective when working with individuals with ADHD. This international experience has deeply enriched my understanding of the complexities of ADHD and how culture, environment, and societal expectations shape our experiences with it.

My passion lies in helping individuals with ADHD embrace their unique brains and understand that ADHD is not a weakness, but a part of who they are. I work with clients to help them leverage their strengths, develop strategies that work with their brain, and empower them to reach their full potential. What excites me most is helping my clients break free from the self-criticism and frustration that often comes with ADHD and instead find ways to thrive by working with their brain’s natural tendencies.

In addition to my coaching work, I’m also a Subject Matter Expert collaborating with universities across the nation. One of my ongoing projects is conducting research with George Washington University (GWU) on the unique experiences of women with ADHD. This research has led to several peer-reviewed publications on ADHD, child and adolescent development, risk and protective factors for brain development, sleep, and memory consolidation. I’ve also written a book, “A Feminist’s Guide to ADHD,” which explores the specific challenges and experiences that women with ADHD face. This project is very close to my heart because I feel it’s essential to address the gender-specific aspects of ADHD, which are often overlooked.

What sets me apart in my field is this blend of research, coaching, and global experience. While many coaches may focus solely on one aspect, I bring a depth of academic knowledge and a research-driven approach to my work, combined with real-world strategies. I firmly believe that knowledge and empathy go hand in hand. I don’t just provide solutions; I create a space where individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of their ADHD.

I’m proud of the work I’ve done, not only in helping individuals with ADHD but also in contributing to the broader academic understanding of the condition. However, the most rewarding part of my work is seeing the transformation in my clients. Watching them shift from struggling to embrace their ADHD to thriving with it is incredibly fulfilling. I want potential clients to know that ADHD doesn’t define their limits, it can be the key to unlocking their true potential when approached with the right mindset, tools, and support. Whether through one-on-one coaching, workshops, or research-driven strategies, I am dedicated to empowering my clients to embrace their brains and succeed in ways that are meaningful to them.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I started my social media account shortly after my own ADHD diagnosis because, at the time, I didn’t know anyone else who had been diagnosed. I felt isolated and wanted to connect with others who understood what I was going through. As I was working on my Ph.D., specifically focused on ADHD, I started sharing facts about ADHD and the science behind it, hoping to provide valuable insights for others. I knew from my academic background that there was so much misinformation out there, and I felt passionate about educating others.

As I continued sharing, my community began to grow, and it’s something I’m incredibly proud of. What started as a way to connect with others has now become a space where I can spread awareness, teach people about ADHD, and advocate for better understanding and support. The growth of my community has been so rewarding, and I’m grateful to be part of a movement that’s breaking down stigma and helping others embrace their ADHD. Seeing the positive impact my content has had on people’s lives, helping them feel seen and understood, has been one of the most fulfilling parts of this journey.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

The best source of new clients for me has definitely been through social media and the opportunities it provides for connection and education. When I first started sharing my own ADHD journey and insights on ADHD research, I didn’t anticipate how many people would resonate with my message. As my social media community grew, I started to reach a wider audience, people who felt understood, who wanted to learn more, and who needed support. The engagement from my followers has been incredible, and many of them have reached out for coaching or attended my workshops after discovering my content online.

Beyond social media, my collaborations with companies and universities through events, workshops, and webinars have also been a great way to connect with new clients. These events have allowed me to provide value in real time, answering questions, offering practical strategies, and engaging directly with individuals. I’ve found that the more I share my expertise through these channels, the more people trust me and are willing to invest in the personalized coaching and support I offer.

Overall, I’ve learned that a combination of social media engagement and live events has been the most effective in attracting new clients. By providing valuable content, creating interactive spaces for learning, and engaging with my audience in a meaningful way, I’ve been able to build lasting relationships with clients who are ready to take the next step in their ADHD journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.adhdempowermentcoaching.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhd_empowerment_coaching/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC86zZe2Zmne_UUf3DPIJBEg