By Janelle Rigby
Principal Counsellor, ACA Supervisor, Behaviour Support Practitioner and AIPC Facilitator and Mentor.

In 2020, at the age of 33, I found myself sitting in a therapy session, asking my therapist, "So, what do you think my diagnosis is?" For nearly six months, I had been working with my therapist to cope with inion the emotional aftermath of my separation from my ex-husband and to navigate the uncertainties of my new life. After months of exploration and reflection, my therapist replied, "A differential diagnosis between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Bipolar Type II." For those that have not heard the term ‘differential diagnosis’, it involves distinguishing between two experiences, as both ADHD and Bipolar share some overlapping characteristics like impulsivity and mood changes. The key difference lies in the mood patterns: ADHD traits are consistent, while Bipolar involves distinct mood episodes that cycle overtime. Making a differential diagnosis helps ensure the correct experience is identified and supported effectively. I was certain that Bipolar wasn’t my diagnosis, I had studied it during my psychology studies and did not have distinct mood fluctuations. However, the possibility of ADHD left me both puzzled and intrigued. My first thought was, "How could I have ADHD? Isn’t that something only young boys are diagnosed with?"

By the end of that session, I was referred to a psychiatrist for further evaluation. Eight weeks later, after completing several self-assessments, I was formally diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Combined Type. As a counsellor who had spent years helping others navigate their mental health challenges, this diagnosis marked a turning point. I realized it was now my turn to confront a deeply personal struggle—one I hadn't realised was connected to being neurodivergent and having ADHD.

Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD

Growing up, I always felt different but could never quite pinpoint what set me apart. My mind seemed to work at a different speed, constantly jumping from one thought to the next. I was the child who asked a million questions, often without waiting for answers, and who left tasks half-finished as I flitted from one interest to another. At school, I worked tirelessly to appear organised and "put together," hoping that this facade would help me succeed academically. Yet, despite my best efforts, I struggled to keep up, often feeling lost in the classroom. Over time, these experiences chipped away at my self-esteem, leading to bouts of anxiety and depressive feelings.

As an adult, these patterns persisted. I would change jobs as soon as I became complacent, always seeking the next challenge, the next promotion, or more responsibilities. By the time I turned 30, my resume was 10 pages long, reflecting 30 different jobs. I attributed this to my tenacity and proactive nature, constantly building my skill set, but deep down, I knew something more was at play.

The turning point came during a particularly challenging period in my life when I decided to separate from my husband. I was juggling multiple responsibilities: running a business, building a new home, attending university, and trying to keep everything together. It became increasingly difficult to manage, and I found myself overwhelmed. After my therapy session where I was referred for a differential diagnosis, with my behaviours matching several different psychological conditions, I decided to research ADHD in adults. As I read more, I began to see my own experiences mirrored in the descriptions. It was a moment of both relief and fear. When the psychiatrist confirmed my ADHD diagnosis, I felt a mix of emotions — relief at finally having an explanation for my struggles, and apprehension about what this diagnosis meant for my future.

Managing life with ADHD

Once the initial wave of mixed emotions subsided and I learned more about ADHD, the diagnosis became a transformative experience. It allowed me to revisit my past with greater self-compassion, viewing my behaviours through a more understanding and forgiving lens. I began to make space for deeper self-awareness, recognising the areas where I faced challenges, identifying what truly energised me, and understanding where I needed additional support or strategies. This shift was crucial in helping me step away from the chronic state of burnout I had been living in and the deep exhaustion that had become my constant companion.

One of the first pivotal steps I took toward deeper self-awareness was enrolling in a course to teach and guidemeditation and mindfulness. A significant part of this course involved committing to my own regular meditation and mindfulness practices. I embraced what energises me — curiosity and the desire to keep learning — and I was determined to challenge the myth that people with ADHD can never quiet their minds. I’ll admit, the first few months of practice were incredibly challenging. However, the more I showed up on my cushion and reminded myself that I was creating space to pause, the easier it became, and my self-awareness deepened. It was in these moments of stillness that I could truly dive into understanding myself and my needs. This was the first step in learning to manage my life with ADHD.

ADHD and counselling: A new dimension in my practice

As a counsellor, my ADHD diagnosis brought a new and valuable dimension to my practice. It deepened my empathy for clients experiencing similar challenges and enhanced my understanding of the complexities of ADHD, particularly for women or those assigned female at birth, who often present with different symptoms than men and may go undiagnosed for longer. Over time, I became an advocate for ADHD awareness, working to dispel myths by educating families and other allied health professionals, while also providing tailored therapeutic support to individuals across the lifespan. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey has been assisting clients in developing personalised strategies to manage their ADHD by taking a holistic approach to their mental health and well-being.

Incorporating my lived experience into my counselling practice has made me a more effective and compassionate practitioner. I’ve learned to embrace the strengths that come with ADHD — such as creativity, resilience, and the ability to think outside the box — and I encourage my clients to do the same. I also strive to create a compassionate space where clients can acknowledge and address the challenges and struggles that come with ADHD. My diagnosis has been a powerful tool in helping me connect with and support those I work with, fostering a deeper level of trust and understanding in my client relationships.

Reflecting on four years of growth and transformation

Looking back over the past four years since my diagnosis, I can see how much has changed, both personally and professionally. Receiving an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood brought a profound sense of clarity to my life. It was as if the missing piece of the puzzle finally fell into place, allowing me to understand myself in a way I never had before.

On a personal level, the diagnosis was a turning point. It empowered me to embrace my neurodivergent brain rather than struggle against it. I became more self-compassionate, recognising that many of the challenges I had faced throughout my life weren’t due to a lack of effort or discipline but were rooted in my ADHD,allowing me to let go of the self-criticism that had plagued me for years. These changes not only helped me navigate my unique challenges but have also improved my overall well-being. I now approach life with a greater sense of balance and self-awareness, which has enriched my relationships and personal fulfillment.

Professionally, my ADHD diagnosis has deepened my practice as a counsellor. It has given me a unique insight into the experiences of clients who are neurodivergent or struggle with similar challenges. This personal connection has enhanced my empathy and allowed me to offer more tailored support to my clients. Incorporating my lived experience into my counselling practice has also made me a more effective and compassionate practitioner and clinical supervisor. I now approach each session with a greater understanding of the complexities of ADHD, and I can relate to the feelings of frustration, overwhelm, and self-doubt that many of my clients’ experience.

Moreover, my journey has inspired me to advocate more strongly for neurodivergent individuals within the mental health community. I’ve become passionate about raising awareness of adult ADHD, challenging misconceptions, and promoting the importance of accurate diagnosis and effective therapeutic support. This advocacy work has become a fulfilling aspect of my professional life, allowing me to contribute to broader conversations around mental health and neurodiversity.

Biography

With over seven years of experience in private practice, Janelle Rigby is a passionate and dedicated counsellor committed to fostering resilience and well-being across the lifespan. As a registered ACA Clinical Supervisor and educator, she empowers the next generation of counsellors, guiding them to excel in their careers. Janelle’s work in the mental health and disability sectors highlights her advocacy for individuals with complex needs, ensuring they receive the support necessary to thrive. Currently, she is expanding her impact through further education in Psychology and working on an upcoming initiative aimed at creating a supportive community for counsellors.