Turning Executive Functioning Challenges into Opportunities with AI

From REACH ADHD & EF Coaching | Perth, Western Australia

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are rapidly changing how we support individuals with ADHD—especially when it comes to strengthening executive functioning (EF) skills such as planning, organisation, time management, working memory, and task initiation.

At REACH ADHD & EF Coaching, we work with children, teens, and adults across Perth and beyond to turn everyday struggles into systems for success. These tools are not stand-alone solutions but are powerful supports that, when used in coaching, help individuals build clarity, consistency, and confidence.

“The ADHD brain is creative and capable, but it needs systems to thrive. AI can provide structure without judgement, helping to build independence over time.”

— Fiona Alexander, Co-Director, REACH ADHD & EF Coaching

Leading ADHD and neuroscience experts agree on the value of AI in supporting executive function:

“People with ADHD desperately need structure. AI provides it in ways that feel personalised and supportive.”

— Dr Edward Hallowell, ADHD Specialist

“AI can act like a prosthetic for executive function—filling in the gaps that the ADHD brain doesn’t always manage on its own.”

— Dr Ned Sahin, Neuroscientist

Understanding Executive Functioning

Before we explore the tools, here’s a quick overview of the core executive functioning skills we focus on in coaching:

Planning

Setting goals, breaking them down, and working out how to get from start to finish. For ADHD brains, visualising and sequencing steps can be difficult—especially when a task feels too big or too vague.

Organisation

Arranging thoughts, tasks, spaces, and materials in a logical, useful way. Many people with ADHD struggle to keep track of what they need or where things belong.

Time Management

Estimating how long things will take, meeting deadlines, and transitioning between tasks smoothly. Time blindness is a common ADHD trait, making it hard to “see” time or use it effectively.

Working Memory

Holding and using information in your mind while doing something else—such as remembering instructions or steps. Individuals with ADHD often forget what they were just told or lose track mid-task.

Task Initiation

Getting started without delay, even when a task is boring or unclear. For many with ADHD, starting isn’t about laziness—it’s about needing structure and clarity to take the first step.

AI Tools to Support Executive Functioning

Here are some of the tools we actively use in our coaching at REACH ADHD & EF Coaching:

Planning & Organisation

• Notion AI – For goal setting, journaling, and daily planning

• SmartTask – For breaking tasks into steps and timelines

• Google Calendar (AI features) – For visual daily routines and reminders

• Napkin.ai – For organising scattered thoughts into connected ideas

“When life feels too big to manage, these tools can act like a second brain—externalising what’s often stuck in the mind.”

— Debbie Hirte, Co-Director

Time Management

• Motion – For AI-powered daily scheduling

• Pomodoro Timer Apps – For short bursts of focused work with breaks

• Reclaim.ai – For protecting task time in your calendar automatically

Working Memory Support

• NotebookLM – For summarising and querying your own notes and documents

Task Initiation

• ChatGPT – For brainstorming, breaking down steps, and writing support

• Goblin Tools – For breaking down complex tasks and estimating time

“Initiating tasks can feel like climbing a mountain. Tools like ChatGPT give clients a boost—helping them take that first step.”

— Fiona Alexander, Co-Director

Coaching That Turns Tools Into Transformation

At REACH ADHD & EF Coaching, based in Perth and supporting families across WA and online, we help you implement these tools effectively. Through individual coaching, we tailor strategies around your child’s brain, routines, and interests—so systems stick.

“The ADHD brain thrives with systems that are visual, immediate, and responsive. When used intentionally, AI tools become springboards for success.”

— Debbie Hirte, Co-Director