Client Journey with ADHD: From Misdiagnosis to Transformation 

At the age of 36, I walked through the doors of John Schurmann's office seeking help for a persistent life challenge. Over the years, I had visited numerous counselors, psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists, trying to address the issues that seemed to dominate my life. These struggles led to several diagnoses: depression, alcoholism, OCD, and sex addiction. Despite undergoing treatment for most of these "disorders," nothing seemed to bring lasting relief.

After a particularly bad experience with antidepressant medication, I vowed never to take medication again. Still, I felt depressed, lonely, exhausted, and hopeless. I hated myself for the anger I carried, for feeling awkward in social situations, for being needy in relationships, and for relying on chemicals to feel better. I was bitter about my inability to achieve the education I needed to pursue my dream career and frustrated by how difficult it was for me to learn new things. I had lost all hope of becoming the person I wanted to be or living the life I envisioned.

I had no idea that my problems might be related to ADHD, nor had I considered it as a possibility. When I met John, he administered a series of tests that revealed I exhibited all the symptoms of ADHD. He encouraged me to educate myself about the condition through articles and books. As I read more, I began to see myself in everything I was learning. It was a revelation: I have ADHD. Initially, I was devastated. Looking back, I realize I had probably had ADHD all along, yet I struggled for years without understanding it. The diagnosis felt like a life-sentence of pain and misery—I thought my struggles would never end.

Fortunately, John helped me see that having ADHD isn’t just a curse—it's a gift. Many individuals with ADHD are highly intelligent, creative, and charismatic. Through our work together, I realized that despite my challenges, I had achieved a great deal. At the very least, I now had a name for the condition that had been affecting every aspect of my life for 36 years.

With this knowledge, I was ready to begin treatment. Although it involved medication, I felt I had nothing to lose. I started taking stimulant medication under a doctor’s supervision while continuing my sessions with John. The changes since then have been incredible. My productivity at work improved due to better focus. The mental energy I gained allowed me to be more attentive to my family and friends. The most noticeable improvement has been in my mood and self-image—I am generally more positive and feel good about myself. I’m finally comfortable in social settings, no longer feeling awkward or out of place. I am exploring new interests and learning skills I once thought impossible. For the first time, I am hopeful about my future and what I can achieve. I truly believe others can see the gift in ADHD too.

Comment from Coach

Thank you for sharing your story from misdiagnosis to transformation. I am incredibly proud of you for never giving up on your journey toward healing. You persevered, always hoping to find answers to your suffering.

When I first met you, your spirit was weighed down by depression, trapped in a dark and helpless pit. You had recently separated from your spouse and desperately wanted to be a good father to your son. Fearful of losing him and struggling with anger issues, you came to my office seeking help with anger management and parenting skills.

Within a few counseling sessions, I sensed that you might have Adult ADHD. After an thorough assessment, it became clear that I was right. Discovering your ADHD finally provided answers to many of your struggles. It became evident that your difficulties and setbacks were largely related to ADHD, not personal failings.

Today, I see you living a new life—the life you always wanted. Keep building on this progress. Congratulations on never giving up.

Your ADHD Coach