Everyone is an ADHD Expert These Days - But Are They Really?

If you spend any time on social media, you’ve probably noticed that ADHD is everywhere. More notably, ADHD “experts” are all over the place. These are individuals who have self-diagnosed or recently discovered their own ADHD and now claim to have the best strategy, the best approach, and the best solution to managing it.

The common logic goes like this: I have ADHD, I figured out what works for me, so now I can help you too. However, the reality is that ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all condition. What works for one person may not work for another. Unfortunately, many of these so-called experts end up doing more harm than good. They promote strategies that are not evidence-based, downplay the importance of professional support, and sometimes even make dangerous recommendations.

Let’s break down some of the biggest issues with the rise of ADHD influencers and self-proclaimed coaches, and what you should look out for before taking advice from someone online.

The Rise of ADHD “Experts”

1. Personal Experience ≠ Professional Expertise

It’s wonderful that more people are becoming aware of ADHD, especially adults who have struggled for years without a diagnosis. However, just because someone has ADHD does not automatically qualify them as a coach, mentor, or adviser for others.

A common trend involves individuals who have successfully managed their own ADHD symptoms suddenly branding themselves as experts. While their journeys may be inspiring, ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that varies greatly between individuals. The strategies that helped one person might be completely ineffective or even harmful for another.

2. The Devaluation of Professional Support

Another troubling aspect of the ADHD influencer wave is how many of these self-proclaimed experts downplay or dismiss professional support. Many lack formal education in psychology, psychiatry, nursing, or coaching. Instead of admitting their lack of credentials, they belittle the need for professional guidance altogether.

This spreads misinformation and discourages people from seeking help from qualified professionals who actually possess the right knowledge and training. ADHD is best managed through a combination of structured support, therapy, psychoeducation, and evidence-based strategies, not just a single person’s opinion or experience.

3. Unqualified Coaches and Mentors

There’s also been a surge in individuals offering ADHD coaching without formal training in ADHD or coaching techniques. ADHD coaching can be incredibly valuable, but it should always be performed by someone who understands the condition.

Many self-proclaimed coaches lack an understanding of ADHD beyond their own experiences. They charge fees for their services, dispense misleading advice, and sometimes even discourage clients from seeking professional help.

The result? People in need of support may feel even more confused, unsupported, and frustrated.

4. The Importance of Psychoeducation

One key area often overlooked by self-proclaimed ADHD experts is psychoeducation. Understanding ADHD is essential for effective management, yet many influencers focus solely on quick fixes rather than educating their audience about the actual science behind ADHD.

Psychoeducation, delivered by qualified professionals, helps individuals understand how ADHD affects cognition, emotions, and daily functioning. It equips them with knowledge about executive dysfunction, emotional regulation, and evidence-based strategies for improvement.

Instead of relying on unverified advice from social media, people with ADHD benefit from structured education programs and expert-led workshops. These avenues teach them about their condition in a meaningful way.

5. Evidence-Based vs. Client-Based Change

Another major issue with unqualified ADHD experts is their tendency to push rigid, one-size-fits-all strategies rather than adapting approaches to individual needs. Evidence-based methods are designed through research and clinical trials, ensuring they effectively serve a broad audience. However, even within evidence-based practices, there must be room for personalisation.

Professionals trained in ADHD management know how to apply research-backed strategies while adapting them to a client's unique strengths, challenges, and circumstances. Rather than imposing their personal ADHD management style on others, qualified professionals work collaboratively to find what truly works for each individual.

6. The Dangers of High-Pressure Sales Tactics

My personal experience with an unqualified mentor was eye-opening. I entered a program looking for structured guidance, but soon realised I had been caught in high-pressure sales tactics. Even as a trained professional myself, I was influenced by the mentor’s overpromising approach.

The pressure to conform to a strategy that wasn’t right for me led to emotional distress. The group dynamic pushed me into an ineffective model, where any questioning was reframed as “facing my significant life experiences.” What was intended as coaching turned into a session led by someone eager to practice their motivational skills rather than provide genuine guidance.

The outcome involved overpromising and underdelivering, leading to a significant learning experience about the importance of trusting my professional knowledge over persuasive but unqualified coaching.

How to Check the Credibility of ADHD Experts

With so much misinformation out there, discerning whom to trust for advice is crucial. Here are five ways to assess the credibility of someone offering ADHD guidance:

1. Check Their Qualifications

• Do they hold formal education in psychology, psychiatry, nursing, coaching, or a related ADHD field?

• Are they certified or recognised by an established institution or organisation?

  
  

2. Evaluate Their Experience Beyond Personal Stories

• Do they recognise the diversity of ADHD experiences, or are they merely promoting their own methods?

  
  

3. See If They Encourage Professional Help

• A credible expert will always acknowledge the importance of medical professionals and therapists.

• Be cautious of anyone who discourages therapy or professional diagnoses.

  
  

4. Assess Their Approach to Psychoeducation

• Are they providing meaningful information about ADHD?

• Do they explain how ADHD impacts behaviour, or do they focus solely on personal anecdotes?

  
  

5. Be Aware of Sales Tactics

• Do they utilise high-pressure sales tactics or claim to have the “only” effective method?

• Check if they are accredited, as reputable professionals typically have their services covered by insurance.

  
  

Final Thoughts

It’s fantastic that ADHD is gaining more attention and that individuals are sharing their experiences. However, just because someone has ADHD does not make them an expert in treating or managing it for others. Misinformation, unqualified coaching, and poor advice can have real consequences. It’s vital to critically assess where we source our information.

If you or someone you know has ADHD, consider seeking support from qualified professionals who can offer psychoeducation and evidence-based strategies. Personal experiences can indeed be valuable, but they should never replace expert guidance.

Let’s ensure that ADHD awareness leads to real support, not just more noise.

In Conclusion

While the rise of ADHD influencers has led to increased awareness and conversations about the condition, it is essential to approach this information critically. Always prioritise professional recommendations over personal anecdotes to ensure safe and effective management.