My name is Tarah, and I'm the coach behind NeuroCactus Coaching. I have a late diagnosis of ADHD and autism, and I live and breathe this stuff. If you think we might be a good fit, please book a free introductory call so we can discuss whether coaching is right for you.
Professional Background
I have a degree in software engineering, and I've worked at Microsoft for 8 years as both a software engineer and a product manager. I've spent 7 out of 8 years working at Xbox, so I've been part of projects like the Game Pass expansion on PC and the Bethesda and Activision acquisitions.
While at Xbox, I created the group “ADHD @ Xbox” where all the ADHD employees could infodump and hyperfixate in peace without neurotypical judgement. I hadn't been diagnosed with autism at the time, otherwise I would have made a group for that, too (and it probably would have included most of the same people).
I helped over a dozen undiagnosed coworkers identify their neurodivergence, and 100% of them went on to be formally diagnosed by a doctor. This is where I developed a passion for helping people learn about and navigate their neurodivergence.
MCAS/POTS/Hypermobility
Several years ago, I went on a wild journey that ultimately led to my diagnosis of POTS, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), and hypermobility. Much of the research on these conditions is relatively new and was not taught in medical school until recently, so most doctors remain uninformed.
Because so many doctors had no idea that these conditions exist, much less how to diagnose and treat them, I read tons of studies to make sense of these conditions. This has given me tremendous insight into the connections between AuDHD and the body. For example, half of all people with ADHD or autism have some degree of hypermobile joints compared to the 20% population average. This is likely because the conditions share significant genetic overlap. Despite the prevalence, it takes an average of 15 years after symptoms first appear to be diagnosed with hypermobility.
The lack of knowledge in the medical community about these extremely common comorbidities means many of us fall victim to medical gaslighting (myself included). While I can't help you treat these conditions, I can empathize deeply with your frustration and help you in a coaching capacity. We can figure out ways to adapt your environment (e.g. office, home, etc) to accommodate your body better. We can also develop and practice scripts for you to use in the doctor's office or with your employer so you can self advocate more effectively.
Accreditation
I chose ADHD Works for my training over other programs because it was developed from scratch by a prominent coach who has AuDHD herself rather than adapted from existing life coaching programs. This program is a member of the Association for Coaching and is the first and only ADHD coaching course certified by CPD.
I've also completed the educational components to become a Certified Psychodynamic Life Coach via The Psychodynamic Coaching Institute. I am currently working to get enough training hours to complete the credentialing. This program is the world's first & only accredited psychodynamic coach training program. It is accredited by the Association for Coaching, IAOPBC, CPD, and IPHM.
I'm also currently taking a course about DBT Skills Training with Marsha Linehan. This is not a therapy credential, and I can't treat you with DBT, but I can teach individual DBT skills for educational purposes. If you are looking for full DBT treatment (it's a great way to improve emotional regulation!), a therapist who specializes in this field would be a better fit.
My interests
As an AuDHDer myself, I have a range of short lived hyperfixations and long term special interests, and like many neurodivergent people, they are central to my sense of identity.
I developed a fascination with Disneyland as a kid and was always obsessed with the ride mechanics and practical effects used in theme parks. This was my original motivation for pursuing an engineering degree.
Once I got diagnosed with ADHD and later autism, I developed a special interest in neuroscience and psychopharmacology (I don't have a medical degree, just for fun). I read countless studies that are released on autism and ADHD, and I will often watch medical conferences on YouTube for fun. I became very good at simplifying neuroscience concepts for other people through metaphors, and after several friends urged me, I started a podcast with a fellow coach where we break down these studies to make them less intimidating and more understandable. You can listen to our podcast here.
