How to ask for professional development despite ADHD history?

PostedNovember 13, 2025

UpdatedNovember 13, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Many adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) worry about requesting professional development or promotion after past performance challenges or disclosure concerns. However, guidance from the NHS, NICE, and ACAS confirms that adults with ADHD have the same rights to advancement and support as anyone else and that doing so can improve both confidence and performance.

How to approach development discussions confidently

The NHS Healthwatch UK 2025 report found that employees who disclosed ADHD and requested structured support were significantly more likely to receive workplace adjustments such as flexible schedules, manager check-ins, or coaching. These changes often led to improved morale, stability, and progression. NICE NG87 guidance also recommends that ADHD employees be offered regular feedback, mentoring, and clear communication pathways to discuss development goals.

If you’ve had previous challenges, focus on your current strengths and strategies that help you perform well. Frame the request around growth rather than difficulty for example:

“I’ve learned what helps me manage focus and structure better I’d like to discuss next steps in developing those skills.”

“I’m interested in progressing within the team and would value feedback or training opportunities.”

Evidence from SAGE Journals (2024) shows that coaching, CBT, and psychoeducation increase self-advocacy and reduce imposter syndrome, helping ADHD professionals pursue development with greater confidence.

Private assessment services like ADHD Certify also provide post-diagnostic coaching and review sessions that can support adults in preparing for workplace conversations about professional growth.

Key takeaway

Requesting professional development with ADHD is not only possible but supported by evidence and employment law. With preparation, confidence, and clear communication, adults with ADHD can advocate for meaningful advancement while ensuring the right supports are in place.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.