From Struggle To Success

I know all too well the negative impressions and stigma that society places on those with ADHD. Having dealt with them all my life, I know it can be a highly stressful and challenging experience for both parents and children.

I was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 7. Luckily my parents were psychologists and so I got early care, going through the gauntlet of traditional ADHD treatments. However, I still had numerous academic issues, was labeled as “learning disabled,” and experienced frequent conflict at home and school because of my behavioral issues.

As a teenager, I went from delinquency and risk-taking behaviors to nearly being expelled from school. I’ve gone through many trials and tribulations on my path through life, but I also gradually realized how often I did certain things that got in the way of my success and productivity. Eventually, I hit on a key insight—I did have what it took to succeed, and with the right kind of dedication, support, structures, and training I could learn to harness those capacities and maximize my potential.

With persistence and diligence (not to mention numerous failed attempts along the way), I cracked the code for ADHD-based achievement. Eventually, I went on to complete two bachelor degrees and graduated from Columbia University with a Masters in Social Work. I believe that the skills I’ve learned along the way can help others have an easier time coping with the social stigma and life barriers that accompany an ADHD diagnosis.

I would like to inspire those with ADHD to dream bigger, see themselves as the gifted and creative people they are, and instill a sense of optimism for the future that sets them up for success in their lives.

I’ve achieved success and happiness, and I know you can, too. Your potential is within reach!

OFFICIAL BIO

Aaron Smith holds a Masters Degree in Advanced Clinical Practice from Columbia University and is an ICF-certified ADHD coach. In addition, to his experience as a licensed therapist, Aaron went on to receive specialized ADHD life coaching training through JST Coaching. Aaron is the founder of Potential Within Reach – an ADHD Life Coaching, Executive Functioning Skill Training, and Counseling organization. Aaron is dedicated to helping children, teens, and adults bridge the gap between their current performance and their full potential. He is also the co-founder of Attention Different: an advocacy and educational organization. His private practice is located in Denver, CO, and alternatively offers web-based sessions for out-of-state clients. Having ADHD himself, Aaron believes that with the right mindset and strategies anyone can learn to harness their ADHD for success.

Aaron Smith, LCSW, ACC helps people with ADHD harness their creative capacities, channel their energy into life-affirming activities and productive pursuits, and develop successful strategies to deal with life’s many challenges. Aaron founded Potential Within Reach to give back and to help people with ADHD and their families live more fulfilling lives. He expertly guides others through the difficulties and opportunities that ADHD presents, meeting them wherever they are in their personal journeys.

LICENSURE

Associate Certified Coach (ACC) – International Coach Federation (ICF)
Specialized in ADHD & Executive Functioning

Licensed Clinical Social Worker – Colorado
Department of Regulatory Agencies, License CSW.09926679

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Graduate of JST Coaching and Training, Empowering Youth with ADHD
ICF Approved ADHD Coach Training Program

Columbia University in the City of New York
Masters of Science – Advanced Clinical Practice, Social Work

Metropolitan State University of Denver
BS, Social Work

The University of Colorado at Boulder
Bachelors, Political Science and Ethnic Studies

OUR TEAM OF ADHD & EF COACHES