Licensed Counselor, Working Photographer: Real ADHD Tools

Episode Title: Licensed Counselor, Working Photographer: Real ADHD ToolsGuest: Andrea Pittman, Andrea Michelle Photography & Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Arizona + WashingtonWe Discuss:How Andrea built a dual career as a wedding/lifestyle photographer and an ADHD-specialized therapist across two statesWhy photography’s variety and flexibility can be a great fit for ADHD brainsThe real sticking point for many solopreneurs with ADHD: business operations, bookkeeping, and “invisible” admin workReframing procrastination as time perception and adrenaline seeking, not failurePractical tools: body doubling, pairing tasks, coffee-shop focus sessions, and using motivation windows instead of rigid schedulesScheduling rest on purpose and designing home systems that protect executive function on work daysClient fit, momentum, and “ADHD inertia” in marketing and minisWeddings, overstimulation, and planning with neurodivergence in mindThe “Solve-It Grid” from Your Brain’s Not Broken to pair high-stress tasks with low-stim, calming activitiesTLDR:Build your business around when your brain actually works best. Motivation windows beat nine-to-five rules.Procrastination isn’t a moral failing. For many ADHDers it’s an adrenaline strategy that still gets the job done.Pair the hard stuff with something calming or enjoyable. Think taxes + podcast, or bookkeeping + body double.Stimulate focus on low-dopamine tasks. Coffee shops, light background noise, or a “work buddy” can help.Protect your executive function by systemizing home life on heavy work weeks. Meal help and laundry routines are productivity tools.Schedule rest like a deliverable. Capacity is finite, and recovery keeps your business sustainable.Use consultations to vibe-check client fit. When the energy is aligned, booking and follow-through get easier.Weddings can be overstimulating. Plan workflows that honor sensory needs for you and your clients.Resources:Book: Your Brain’s Not Broken by Tamara RosierFollow Andrea: TikTok, Instagram, Threads — @andreamichellephotoAndrea’s Podcast: Brilliant Minds? by Brilliant Minds Wellness (Spotify and YouTube)Coming Soon from Andrea: Downloadable guides — ADHD for Wedding Photographers and a companion guide for neurodivergent wedding clients