Neurodiversity in Coaching: Insights from the BSC Coaching Network

In September, the British School of Coaching (BSC) Coaching Network explored a powerful and timely theme: neurodiversity in coaching. With guest speaker Mark Woodward from Neurobox, the session highlighted how coaches can adapt their practice to better support neurodivergent clients and create truly inclusive coaching environments.

Why Neurodiversity Matters in Coaching

Neurodiversity recognises that people experience and interact with the world in different ways—through autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and more. In coaching, this means moving beyond a “one-size-fits-all” approach. By tailoring our methods, we unlock client strengths, minimise barriers, and foster reflective spaces where individuals can thrive.

Three Key Takeaways from the Session

1. Strengths-First Framing
Effective coaching for neurodivergent clients begins with a focus on strengths. Instead of emphasising deficits, coaches can co-design reasonable adjustments around what clients do best—whether that’s visual thinking, creativity, or attention to detail.

2. Contracting with Clarity
Strong coaching relationships require clear contracting. At the start, coaches should agree on practical preferences such as sensory needs, timing, breaks, and processing styles. This ensures safety, transparency, and shared expectations.

3. Depth of Toolkit
Supporting neurodiverse clients means drawing on a wide range of coaching strategies. Using visuals, offering short pauses, providing concise summaries, and giving clients different response options (voice, chat, drawings, or written reflections) all help manage cognitive load and enhance working memory.

Practical Steps Coaches Can Apply

• Send pre-session questions 24–48 hours in advance to allow extra thinking time.
• Provide clear post-session summaries that capture outcomes and next steps.
• Offer choice in communication formats to accommodate different processing styles.
• Invite clients to define their best conditions for thinking and reflection (quiet spaces, flexible pacing, lighting, or movement).

Looking Ahead

The September session reinforced a powerful truth: neurodiversity is not a challenge to manage but a dimension of human difference to embrace. By embedding inclusive practices into coaching, we not only empower neurodivergent clients but also elevate the quality of coaching overall.

The BSC Coaching Network continues to provide thought leadership, peer learning, and professional development opportunities for coaches at every stage of their journey. We thank Mark Woodward from Neurobox for his valuable contribution and all participants for shaping such a rich discussion.