How is task switching handled in autism organisational coaching?

PostedDecember 30, 2025

UpdatedDecember 30, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Task switching, the ability to move from one activity to the next, can be particularly demanding for many autistic people. According to NHS England and UK autism services, differences in executive functioning are common, making it harder to shift attention, adapt to new rules, or change focus quickly. These challenges often mean that switching tasks increases cognitive load and can trigger stress or anxiety.

Why task switching can feel difficult

Research shows that cognitive flexibility is one of the most consistently affected areas of executive functioning in autism, though the degree varies between individuals. Studies summarised in a recent 2025 review on executive functioning highlight that switching between tasks can become more complex when the activity is unfamiliar or rule-based. Evidence from peer-reviewed task-switching research also notes that transitions can require extra processing time and reassurance, especially when expectations are unclear.

How organisational coaching supports task switching

Autism organisational coaching focuses on reducing uncertainty and building practical, repeatable strategies. In the UK, workplace and clinical coaches commonly use approaches such as:

Visual supports: Tools like timetables, checklists, and sequenced task boards provide stability during transitions. These approaches are widely recommended by NHS services, including NHS Borders.

Predictable transition cues: Coaches often introduce auditory or visual signals to help prepare for a change, reducing the abruptness that can drive anxiety. This aligns with guidance from the National Autistic Society.

Breaking tasks into smaller steps: Many autistic people benefit from structured sequencing to make next steps concrete. This is supported by Leicestershire Partnership NHS.

Time-blocking and routine building: Regular sequences and predictable workflow patterns help reduce the cognitive load of switching.

Timers and reminders: Tools such as vibrating timers or countdown apps support time awareness and prepare for task endings, as described in workplace guidance like Neurobox’s strategy coaching.

Coaching and CBT-informed techniques: UK clinicians adapt cognitive-behavioural approaches to strengthen flexible thinking and build coping strategies for transitions, as outlined by Think CBT.

How NHS and NICE guidance fits in

While NICE does not detail organisational coaching specifically, both NICE NG170 and NICE CG142 recommend supports that help autistic people manage transitions, daily organisation, and changes in routine. NHS guidance reinforces the importance of visual structure, predictable environments, and communication strategies to help reduce the stress associated with switching tasks.

Takeaway

Organisational coaching supports task switching by reducing uncertainty and giving autistic people consistent, personalised strategies. Through visual structure, predictable transitions, and step-by-step approaches, coaching helps build confidence and makes moving between tasks more manageable in everyday life.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve 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 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.