With over thirty years of experience and training coaching, Hanna Forrest is the expert to turn to when it comes to helping parents of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Her 1:1 Virtual Coaching Program is designed to give parents an effective and tailored strategy for managing their child’s behaviors. Through her programs, families can gain insight on how to create an environment full of hope, resilience, patience and compassion – all while supporting their child’s development.
Q: Could you tell us a bit about yourself Hanna and how ADHD has had an impact on your life?
A: I was raised in Japan where my ADHD was neither recognized as a disability, nor was my hyperactivity accepted in a subdued society, so I struggled a great deal. I was constantly misunderstood as intelligent but unmotivated or “over the top” because of my hyperactivity. I turned those deficits of the front part of my brain inward and struggled deeply with low self-esteem. I want to help protect other children from suffering that way for things they cannot control.
Q: What inspired you to create this program?
A: When I was the Center Director at a National Program for children with various behavioral and learning disabilities, I spoke to many parents who were looking for that missing piece in their child’s ADHD care which is the behavior training. Medicine and exercising the brain are crucial interventions, but the day-to-day management of behaviors related to ADHD was lacking and those behaviors wreak havoc on the peace of a household.
Q: What can parents expect each week?
A: Once a week, parents meet with me in a 1:1 setting. Our time is spent learning about ADHD and the brain, what their child can and cannot control and strategies for Executive Function struggles. I work with the parents using a method I have created called The MAPP Method. I created this method using scientific and evidence-based solutions, with three core pillars in mind. Those are Mindset Shifts, ADHD Education, and Positive Parenting Techniques. Oftentimes, the child will participate during some of our sessions.
I do want parents to know that when you work with me, I am focused on strategies you can put in place immediately. I don’t ever want a parent to feel like they are attending a psychology class. This is a safe space. You are encouraged to ask questions, talk about your struggles-but also-celebrate “wins”. We focus on all areas of everyday living including nutrition, exercise, problem-solving, advocacy and strategies for school.
Q: What is the difference between your program and sending a child to a therapist or psychologist?
A: BPT or Behavior Parent Training is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics to be prescribed by doctors along with medication if that’s an option. This is because this type of training is very specific to behaviors that are disruptive not only to the household, but to the self-worth of the child. Of course, therapy addresses these concerns as well but as an ADHD Coach, I focus on tools for parents to help them manage the behavior while simultaneously building the child’s self-esteem.
I work with the parents on developing strategies that can be used long term so that they can become more independent in managing their child’s behaviors and teaching them skills to better communicate their needs. I also provide guidance on how to create a positive learning environment for the child, as well as help with addressing any underlying issues that are contributing to the disruptive behaviors. Ultimately, my goal is to work together with parents and children to find strategies that will result in sustainable behavioral change and create a peaceful home environment.
Q: What feedback have you received from parents who have had success with your program?
A: Humbling, tear jerking feedback! Because the strategies work, and even more importantly, the families are doing the actual work, their lives completely change for the better. I’ve often been told that the course itself is delivered in an engaging, laid-back manner which makes families feel free to be very open and honest about their very serious struggles which in turn creates more substantial change.
Q: Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
A: That there is so much hope! The strategies I implement are scientifically proven and evidence based. They work! Families are substantially changed, and relationships are restored. Permanent change is possible, and it is life changing! They should get excited!
