ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect people of all ages, children, teens, and adults alike. While it’s commonly associated with kids, many adults live with ADHD, often without even knowing it until a late diagnosis.

People with ADHD often experience chronic challenges with focus, organization, impulse control, and emotional regulation. These difficulties can show up in everyday life, at work, in relationships, and while managing routine at home.

Here some common struggles ADHD may include:

• Difficulty staying focused or completing tasks

• Trouble following instructions or finishing projects

• Constantly misplacing things or forgetting appointments

• Poor time management and procrastination

• Feeling emotionally overwhelmed or easily frustrated

• Acting impulsively or speaking without thinking

Remember that ADHD is different for everyone. No two people experience ADHD in the same way. Your symptoms can look very different depending on your age, personality, and even your gender. For example, women with ADHD often experience more subtle or internal symptoms, like emotional sensitivity, perfectionism or feeling overwhelmed, rather than outward hyperactivity for men with ADHD.

Because of this, many people go undiagnosed or feel misunderstood for years. It’s also important to know that you don’t need a diagnosis to feel these challenges are real and you don’t need a label to start making changes that help you. 

If you’re constantly battling distraction, stress, or chaos and you’re tired of trying to “just get it together”, you’re not alone. At Thomas ADHD Coaching in Alkmaar, I am able to support adults, whether you’ve been diagnosed or are simply exploring whether ADHD might be part of your story.

I offer 1-on-1 coaching sessions in English or Dutch, both online and in person, tailored to your unique brain and your daily life.

👉 Curious if ADHD coaching is right for you? Book a free introductory session today, and let’s talk about what kind of support might work best for you.

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder presents differently in everyone, but there are some key signs that often appear in both children and adults. Symptoms may vary based on age, personality, and even gender, but they generally fall into four main areas: inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional regulation difficulties.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common ADHD symptoms especially as they show up in adults:

Inattention and Focus Issues

• Difficulty staying focused during conversations, meetings, or tasks

• Mind frequently wandering or “zoning out”

• Trouble following instructions or completing projects

• Easily distracted by noise, thoughts, or surroundings

• Forgetfulness, even with short-term memory (e.g. “Why did I walk into this room?”)

Disorganization and Time Management

• Chronic procrastination, especially with boring or overwhelming tasks

• Losing important items like keys, documents, or your phone

• Poor sense of time: underestimating how long things take

• Frequent lateness or missed deadlines

• Struggles with planning, prioritizing, or creating routines that stick

Impulsivity and Hyperactivity

• Speaking out of turn or interrupting others mid-conversation

• Making quick decisions without thinking them through

• Feeling restless, fidgety, or always “on the go”

• Trouble sitting still during meetings or relaxing in quiet environments

• Engaging in excessive talking, movement, or multitasking

Emotional Dysregulation and Social Struggles

• Difficulty managing emotions like anger, anxiety, or frustration

• Feeling overwhelmed easily or being overly reactive to stress

• Sensitivity to criticism or rejection

• Challenges reading social cues or navigating relationships

• Trouble shifting gears—finding transitions and changes in routine especially hard

Other common ADHD related signs:

• Avoidance of mentally demanding or repetitive tasks (e.g., paperwork, emails, admin work)

• Feeling bored quickly and constantly seeking stimulation

• Struggling to finish what you start, even when you’re passionate about it

Gentle Reminder to yourself : ADHD symptoms are unique to you

Not everyone with ADHD looks “hyperactive”, in fact, many adults with ADHD, especially in women, experience more internal symptoms like feeling emotionally overwhelmed, mental fatigue, or a need for perfection. It’s also important to know that you can struggle with these symptoms even without a formal diagnosis.

If you find yourself resonating with several of these signs, it might be worth exploring  ADHD coaching as a supportive and personalized way to manage your brain and build systems that work for you.

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) are often used as if they mean the same thing, but there’s a small difference in how we use these terms today.

ADD is an older term that used to describe ADHD without the hyperactive traits. These days, the official term is simply ADHD, which is divided into three types (also called “presentations”), depending on the main challenges someone experiences.

Here the 3 Presentations of ADHD

1. Predominantly Inattentive Type (formerly called ADD)

People with this type often:

• Zone out or “check out” in conversations or meetings

• Lose track of details or forget what they just read or heard

• Struggle to keep tasks organised from start to finish

• Appear “daydreamy” even when they’re trying to focus

2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type

This type often looks like:

• Feeling the need to keep moving or fidgeting constantly

• Talking a lot, interrupting, or jumping into conversations mid-sentence

• Difficulty staying seated or waiting your turn

• Acting quickly without thinking it through first

3. Combined Type

• A mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive traits

• This is the most common type seen in both adults and children
  

💡 So… is ADD the same as ADHD? Yes, ADD is now considered just one subtype of ADHD (the inattentive type). Medical professionals no longer use “ADD” in official diagnoses, but many people still say it when they’re talking about ADHD without hyperactive symptoms.

Which type do I have?

ADHD looks different for everyone. Some people mostly struggle with staying focused and organised, others feel restless and impulsive, and some experience both. Your personality, gender, and age can also influence how symptoms show up in daily life.

If you’re wondering whether you have ADHD or you’re feeling drained by distraction, impulsivity, or restlessness. ADHD coaching can help you understand how your brain works and build strategies that actually fit your lifestyle.

At Thomas ADHD Coaching in Alkmaar, I work with both inattentive ADHD (formerly called ADD) and combined ADHD. You don’t need a formal diagnosis to get started. We can explore your challenges together and find practical tools to bring more calm, structure, and clarity into your day.

Yes, ADHD can absolutely be diagnosed in adulthood. While ADHD is often associated with children, many people only recognize the signs of ADHD later in life, often after years of struggling with focus, organization, or emotional regulation.

For some adults, ADHD symptoms were missed in childhood or mistaken for anxiety, stress or even a lack of discipline. Over time, the pressure of work, relationships, or parenting can make the symptoms harder to manage , leading people to seek a diagnosis as adults.

You don’t need an official diagnosis to benefit from ADHD coaching. Whether you’ve just started to recognize ADHD traits or you’re waiting for a formal assessment, ADHD coaching can help you understand your brain, build better habits and create more ease in your daily life.

At Thomas ADHD Coaching in Alkmaar, I support adults with or without an ADHD diagnosis. Sessions are available online or in-person, in English and Dutch and we start with a free, no-pressure intake consultation.

If you're seeking an official ADHD or ADD evaluation in   Alkmaar, Amsterdam, or nearby regions in the Netherlands, the first step is to consult your GP (huisarts). Your doctor can assess your symptoms and provide a referral to a licensed mental health specialist or diagnostic center.  ADHD evaluations in the Netherlands are often covered by your basic health insurance, but it's advisable to check with your insurance provider regarding coverage, co-payments, and any specific requirements. Be aware that waiting times for evaluations, especially in major cities like Amsterdam, can range from several weeks to a full year.

🧠 ADHD and ADD Testing Centers in Alkmaar:

ADHD and ADD testing centers near Alkmaar:

• GGZ NHN (Geestelijke Gezondheidszorg Noord-Holland-Noord) – Offers ADHD diagnostics and psychological care in Alkmaar and surrounding towns like Heerhugowaard. Website: ggz-nhn.nl

• Independent Psychologists and Psychiatrists – In Alkmaar and nearby regions, you can also find professionals experienced in ADHD assessments. Use platforms like:

• ZorgkaartNederland

• Psycholoog.nl

• Kiesuwhulpverlener.nl

• Hersencentrum Alkmaar Offers neuropsychological assessments for ADHD, including testing and treatment options. They also provide medication consultations with their psychiatrist. 📍 Kennemerstraatweg 81, 1814 GD Alkmaar 📞 072-520 1489 🌐 hersencentrum.nl

• Praktijk Irene Heim B.V. – Alkmaar Provides psychological services, including ADHD assessments for children and adults. 📍 Luttik Oudorp 104, 1811 MZ Alkmaar 📞 085 4000 456 🌐 ireneheim.nl

• iPractice Alkmaar A mental health practice with experienced psychologists offering accessible care without long waiting lists. They provide solution-focused therapy, which may include ADHD-related support. 📍 Paardenmarkt 1, 1811 KH Alkmaar 📞 020 771 7996 🌐 ipractice.com

• GGZ Noord-Holland-Noord (GGZ NHN) Offers ADHD diagnostics and psychological care in Alkmaar and surrounding towns like Heerhugowaard. A referral is usually required from your GP. 🌐 ggz-nhn.nl

📍 ADHD Testing Centers in Amsterdam:

If you're open to traveling to Amsterdam, here are trusted ADHD evaluation options:

• ADHD Centraal Specializes in ADHD diagnostics and treatment, with services available in Amsterdam and other cities like Breda, Rotterdam, Den Bosch. Available to both Dutch speakers and expat ( English ADHD evaluation) 🌐 adhdcentraal.nl

• OhMyMood A mental health care provider offering ADHD diagnostics and treatment in Amsterdam. 🌐 ohmymood.nl

• Centrum 45 Focuses on trauma-informed care, including ADHD assessments for individuals with a trauma history. 🌐 centrum45.nl

• GGZ inGeest A major mental health care organization providing ADHD testing and support, with locations including VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam. 🌐 ggzingeest.nl

• Jellinek (Amsterdam Obrechtstraat) Specializes in mental health and addiction, also offering ADHD evaluations. 🌐 topggz.nl – Jellinek

I received a late diagnosis (adult) and got diagnosed at ADHD Centraal in Amsterdam. 

This place can provide testing for expats and Dutch speakers. 

💡 Note: You don’t need an official diagnosis to start receiving support. If you recognize ADHD symptoms and are struggling with focus, time management, or emotional regulation, ADHD coaching can help. Even if you are waiting for your evaluation. 

📍 At Thomas ADHD Coaching in Alkmaar, I offer private coaching sessions in English and Dutch, available online or in-person. Whether you’re awaiting a diagnosis or exploring your options, coaching can help you take practical steps forward today.

👉 Book your free introductory session now

If you're looking for an ADHD diagnosis in English while living in Amsterdam, Alkmaar, or anywhere in the Netherlands, there are several accessible options, even if Dutch is not your first language.

You can find some ADHD Assessment Centers Offering Services in English:

ADHD Centraal – National Provider (Including Amsterdam)

ADHD Centraal is a top choice for adult ADHD evaluations and offers English language assessments. Their process is efficient and often completed in just one day.

What can you expect:

• Psychiatric evaluation

• QbTest (a concentration and attention test)

• ADHD questionnaires

• Input from two people close to you (optional, but often requested)

• Same-day results and diagnosis when applicable

They are well-suited for both expats and Dutch speakers and operate in multiple cities including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and more. 🌐 adhdcentraal.nl

📍 Here you can find other ADHD Testing Centers in English (Amsterdam & Alkmaar)

In Amsterdam:

• OhMyMood – Offers ADHD evaluations in English and Dutch with therapists trained in mental health for adults. 🌐 ohmymood.nl

• GGZ inGeest at Amsterdam VUmc – Mental health specialists with English-speaking clinicians. 🌐 ggzingeest.nl

• Centrum 45 – Offers ADHD assessments and treatment for individuals with complex backgrounds or trauma. 🌐 centrum45.nl

In Alkmaar & Surroundings:

• Hersencentrum Alkmaar – Offers ADHD testing for adults and children, including QbTest and diagnostic interviews. 🌐 hersencentrum.nl

• iPractice Alkmaar – A modern mental health practice with short waiting times and English-speaking psychologists. 🌐 ipractice.com

• GGZ Noord-Holland-Noord (GGZ NHN) – Offers diagnostic and therapeutic support for ADHD and other conditions. 🌐 ggz-nhn.nl

I recommend always calling to be sure they do offer a diagnosis and if their services fit your needs.

No, you do not need an official ADHD diagnosis or a referral from your doctor (GP huisarts) to start ADHD coaching. Many people begin coaching based on their personal experiences and self-awareness of ADHD-related challenges, long before receiving a formal diagnosis or an ADHD evaluation. 

If you recognize yourself in symptoms like emotional dysregulation, low energy, difficulty focusing, or struggles with productivity, you are welcome to begin coaching at Thomas ADHD coaching at any time.

As an ADHD coach, my role is not to diagnose or prescribe medication, that’s the work of a psychologist or psychiatrist. But I can support you with personalized tools and strategies that are tailored to your experience, goals, and strengths. Whether you have a confirmed diagnosis or are still waiting (often for months, due to long waiting lists in the Netherlands), you don’t have to wait to get help here. 

If you're looking for practical support and guidance while navigating ADHD symptoms, I’m here to help you take action now.

ADHD coaching is an action oriented approach that helps you understand your unique brain  and behavioral patterns. 

An ADHD coach will guide you to make informed decisions about your life’s goals, challenge your thinking, manage your symptoms, and make lasting improvements in your daily life. This journey equips you with practical tools, builds accountability, and deepens your understanding of how ADHD affects you, so you can live a more balanced and fulfilling life. Coaching can also help you develop emotional regulation skills, leading to better relationships, improved confidence, and overall mental well-being.

Clients say this is a great way to understand themselves and use ADHD as a strength. ADHD coaching is customized to the unique needs of each individual with ADHD. As a ADHD coach, I focus on helping individuals understand their strengths and their challenges. ADHD coaching is not a substitute for medical treatment or therapy, but it’s a valuable support system to help you take control of your life and thrive.

Yes, ADHD coaching is different from therapy. While they have different approaches, the purpose is the same (making someone a better version of themself). The difference is that therapy focuses on the problem. With coaching we acknowledge the problem, but we chose to focus at the things that do work.

A coach and a therapist both help you to create change and make significant improvements in your life, they both observe your patterns, coping mechanisms and emotional regulation. 

Therapy / Psychotherapy focuses on helping individuals understand and work on emotional and psychological problems. However, consulting a therapist can be helpful if you would like to follow up your diagnosis and work on conditions like depression, anxiety or trauma. 

ADHD coaching is made to fit your unique needs, the goal is to focus on your strengths and your own challenges. An ADHD coach works in partnership with the client to implement actions plans thanks to your observation and help understand yourself better without any judgment. An ADHD coach provides support, accountability, helps you manage your symptoms and improve your daily life. You may need to learn tools or coping mechanisms to overcome obstacles. 

ADHD coaching is not a therapy or a medical treatment. An ADHD coach can’t prescribe medication. But this is a complementary approach.

ADHD coaching is designed to help you take back control in the parts  of life that matter most to YOU. Whether you're struggling with work performance, academic pressure, relationship challenges, or feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day things, ADHD coaching offers practical tools and personalized strategies to support your unique ADHD brain.

As your ADHD coach, I tailor each session to your specific needs, not what “should” work, but what does really work for you. Together, we can reduce feelings of overwhelm, navigate your challenges, and manage the symptoms that interfere with your focus, motivation, and emotional balance. I also support individuals dealing with ADHD-related depression or exhaustion.

Do you feel stuck or lost in your career or personal life? ADHD coaching can help you identify what really drives you, your goals, values, and purpose, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Whether you're a professional, student, or entrepreneur, ADHD coaching can help you with: 

 ✅ Time management and organization

 ✅ Productivity at work or in studies

 ✅ Reducing distractions and procrastination

 ✅ Creating healthy routines and boundaries

 ✅ Navigating relationships with more ease and awareness

ADHD coaching is not one-size-fits-all, it’s a collaborative and empowering process that helps you better understand your mind and build the tools to thrive.

ADHD coaching can be a powerful support tool if you’re living with ADHD or ADD. Even if you  haven’t been officially diagnosed but struggle with focus, overwhelm, or motivation. It’s important to find a coach who resonates with you, who will understand your unique challenges and work with you to navigate them with structure, clarity, and encouragement.

While ADHD coaching is primarily designed for individuals with ADHD or ADD, many people without a formal diagnosis or who are simply feeling stuck in life also find it helpful. Coaching can help you explore your values, life direction, and personal mission. It can be very helpful if you're seeking more purpose at work, in your studies, or in your relationships.It's essential to choose a coach with accredited training and experience in ADHD / ADD coaching. A qualified ADHD coach doesn’t give you all the answers, instead, they guide you to reflect on your current environment, habits and goals and help you build systems that actually work for you and your brain.

If you’re open to self-reflection and committed to creating real change, ADHD coaching could be exactly what you need. Whether you're looking to improve time management, emotional regulation, or life direction, I'm here to support you. Here how working with an ADHD coach can help you:

• Understand how ADHD affects your unique brain and behavior

• Build practical tools for managing focus, time and energy

• Break out of cycles of procrastination and overwhelm

• Create systems that work with your brain, not against it

• Feel more confident, organized, and in control of your day-to-day life

At Thomas ADHD Coaching in Alkmaar, you will find personalized ADHD sessions in English or Dutch, available online or in person and no diagnosis is required to begin.

ADHD coaches are typically trained through specialized coaching programs that combine theory, practical tools, and a deep understanding of how ADHD affects the brain and behavior. When choosing a coach, it's important to look for someone who has received accredited training and has real-life experience working with ADHD or ADD.

I received my ADHD coaching certification through ADHD Nederland – De Eerste Verdieping, one of the most respected ADHD coaching programs in the Netherlands. This one-year training is known for its depth and focus on neurodiversity, and includes elements of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), which enhances self-awareness and communication.

In addition to formal training, I continuously expand my knowledge through:

• Ongoing self-study

• ADHD-specific workshops and professional development

• Personal lived experience, having ADHD myself, and being closely connected to friends and family members with ADHD

This combination of accredited education, continuous learning, and personal insight helps me support my clients not just from theory, but from real-world understanding. It allows me to meet you where you are, with empathy, structure, and strategies that actually work for you. Clients often tell me they feel seen and understood because I know ADHD myself.

If you’d like to learn more about my background, values, feel free to visit the About Me page.

Yes, I am currently welcoming new clients for ADHD coaching and  you don’t need a referral from your GP to begin. If you’re ready to get support, you can start without any delay.

Unlike many psychological services that have long waiting times in the Netherlands,  there is no waiting list for ADHD coaching with me in Alkmaar. Whether you're newly exploring ADHD, recently diagnosed, or simply looking for support you’re welcome here. There’s no waiting list, and you can begin coaching sessions as soon as you’re ready. That means you start working on your goals right now. I offer coaching in both English and Dutch, online or in person.

ADHD coaching is ideal for teens and adults who are diagnosed with ADHD, show signs of ADHD, or simply struggle with focus, organization, or emotional regulation. As an ADHD coach in Alkmaar, I work with individuals, couples, and even workplaces to create practical, personalized strategies that help manage ADHD in your daily life.

Coaching can also support:

• Couples navigating ADHD in relationships

• Managers and employees looking to improve productivity and communication

• Expats in the Netherlands who prefer ADHD support in English 

You don’t need a formal diagnosis to benefit from this coaching. If ADHD is affecting your work, studies, or relationships, I’m here to help. Let’s talk to explore if ADHD coaching in Alkmaar is the right fit for you.

There is no waiting list for ADHD coaching in Alkmaar, you can usually schedule your first session within one week. I offer flexible appointments in Alkmaar. Online ADHD coaching is also available upon request.

To book a session, simply fill out the contact form or send me a message. I’ll personally reach out to schedule a free introductory session or your first coaching appointment.

Unfortunately, ADHD coaching is not typically refunded by Dutch health insurance. Coaching is considered a non-medical support service, so most health insurers in the Netherlands don't reimburse the cost of ADHD coaching sessions.

However, in some cases, clients may be eligible for financial support through:

• Their employer (especially through personal development or burnout prevention programs)

• The UWV (Dutch Employee Insurance Agency) if you're receiving work reintegration support

• A PGB (Persoonsgebonden Budget) under certain care-related conditions

I fully understand that ADHD coaching is a personal investment. To make it more accessible, I offer discounted coaching packages, you can find all details on the Packages page. If needed, I'm also happy to discuss flexible payment options if you're unable to pay the full amount upfront.

If you have questions about costs or possible reimbursement feel free to contact me, I’ll gladly help you explore the best option for you. 

No, you don’t need a referral from your GP to start ADHD coaching with me. ADHD coaching is a private and non-medical service in Alkmaar, so you can contact me directly to schedule your first session, no paperwork or approval needed.

While some GPs may recommend ADHD coaching as a helpful tool, especially alongside therapy or while waiting for a formal diagnosis, a referral is not required, and Dutch health insurance typically does not reimburse coaching sessions at this time.

If you're experiencing challenges related to ADHD symptoms, you’re welcome to start coaching at any point, with or without a diagnosis.

Yes, I offer ADHD coaching in both English and Dutch. Whether you're more comfortable speaking Dutch or you're an expat looking for support in English, you’re welcome here.

Coaching sessions are available:

• In-person in Alkmaar and surrounding areas of Alkmaar ( other parts can be discussed : around Amsterdam, Haarlem …)

• Online throughout the Netherlands, perfect if you live outside the region or prefer remote sessions

My native language is Dutch, and I’m fully fluent in English, so we can work in the language that feels most natural to you.

Most clients meet with me for ADHD coaching sessions every two weeks, though we can adjust the frequency to fit your needs and availability. I recommend a two-week gap between sessions to give you space to reflect, apply new tools, and avoid feeling rushed.

The duration of an ADHD coaching program depends on your personal goals and challenges. Some clients benefit from a short-term package, while others choose longer-term support to build sustainable routines and deeper change.

We'll discuss your goals during the free intake call and create a coaching rhythm that works best for you.

Book your free introductory session to learn more about how ADHD coaching in Alkmaar (or online) can support your progress.

Yes, I offer both in-person ADHD coaching in Alkmaar and online sessions across the Netherlands. Whether you prefer to meet face-to-face or need the flexibility of remote coaching, I understand and we can tailor the format to suit your needs.

While I personally enjoy working in person, especially for interactive exercises, many clients benefit just as much from online ADHD coaching, via video or phone depending on their goals and schedule. Not every session requires us to be in the same room, so we’ll choose the option that works best for you.

📍 In-person coaching is available in Alkmaar, Amsterdam, and surrounding areas. 

💻 Online coaching is available anywhere in the Netherlands (and beyond).

Not at all! While I offer in-person ADHD coaching in Alkmaar and nearby areas, I also provide online coaching sessions throughout the Netherlands and even beyond.

Whether you’re based in Amsterdam, Haarlem, Utrecht, or living elsewhere in the country or abroad, you can access expert ADHD coaching from the comfort of your home.

Coaching is available in Dutch or English, online or in-person, depending on what works best for you and your lifestyle.

Booking a free intake session is quick and easy. Just visit the contact page to fill out the form, and I’ll get back to you to schedule your first call.

During the intake, we’ll talk about your goals, current challenges, and how ADHD coaching can support you right away, whether you’re based in Alkmaar, elsewhere in the Netherlands, or prefer online sessions.