Does Executive Function Coaching Work?

By Kevin Rockmael

What New Research Reveals About Helping Students Stay Focused, Organized, and Confident

Executive function coaching is becoming increasingly popular among students, parents, and educators. But does it actually help?

According to a recent multi-semester study conducted by Untapped Learning, the answer is yes. The study followed more than 300 students across middle school, high school, and college over three semesters. It showed measurable, statistically significant growth in core executive function (EF) skills like organization, planning, and task completion.

The findings confirm what many families have long suspected: when students are given consistent support and structure, they thrive.

What Is Executive Function Coaching?

Executive function refers to the mental processes that help us plan, focus, remember instructions, and manage tasks. These include time management, emotional regulation, impulse control, goal setting, and organization.

Executive function coaching provides one-on-one mentorship focused on helping students strengthen these skills. Unlike tutoring, which focuses on academic content, EF coaching teaches students how to learn. Coaches help students create systems, set goals, stay on track, and build the habits needed for long-term success.

At Untapped Learning, coaching sessions often include movement and physical activity to boost engagement, regulate emotions, and foster strong mentor-student relationships.

<iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/SVa0_VQJIAg?si=_o0VBk9qx5f61UKl” title=”YouTube video player” frameborder=”0″ allow=”accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share” referrerpolicy=”strict-origin-when-cross-origin” allowfullscreen></iframe>

What Did the Study Measure?

Untapped Learning evaluated five core executive function domains:

• Organization
• Planning
• Completion
• Communication
• Mentality (confidence, mindset, and self-regulation)

What Did the Data Show?

92% of students improved in at least one EF domain
76% improved in three or more domains

Organization, planning, and completion showed the most growth:

• 84% improved in organization
• 81% improved in planning
• 79% improved in task completion

Communication and mentality also improved:

• 62% saw gains in communication
• 68% reported greater confidence, resilience, and self-awareness

Other important statistics 

• Male college students made the largest overall gains across all domains
• Female students, though underrepresented, reported increases in self-confidence and reduced anxiety
• Students without ADHD diagnoses improved at nearly the same rate as those with formal diagnoses
• Movement-based coaching was associated with greater student engagement and stronger self-regulation, especially in middle and high school students
• Avoidance behaviors also decreased
• Students who identified as frequent procrastinators were 55% more likely to start assignments independently by the end of the semester

Why This Matters for Families

Many academic struggles come down to executive function. Forgetting assignments, procrastinating, zoning out in class, or feeling overwhelmed are all signs that a student may benefit from structured EF support.

Coaching helps students:

• Follow through on assignments
• Plan their weeks and manage their time
• Build and maintain organizational systems
• Advocate for themselves with teachers
• Reduce anxiety through predictable routines
• Build confidence in their ability to succeed

Parents often notice fewer school-related arguments, more consistent communication from their child, and increased independence at home.

Is Coaching Just for Students with ADHD?

No. While students with ADHD often benefit from EF coaching, the model is equally effective for students without a diagnosis. The study showed strong results for students with anxiety, learning differences, perfectionism, or simply those who are bright but disorganized.

EF coaching is especially valuable during key academic transitions like starting high school or college.

The REP Method: What Makes Coaching at Untapped Work

Untapped Learning uses a unique approach called the REP Method, which stands for:

Relationships
Coaches build trust and connection with students. This relationship is the foundation of growth. Students are more likely to show up, open up, and stay accountable when they feel safe and understood.

Executive Function Skills
The core of coaching focuses on teaching students practical, repeatable systems for managing school and life. This includes time management, task initiation, planning, and more.

Personalization
Each student is different. Coaching is tailored to individual needs, strengths, and schedules. Whether a student is a freshman in high school or a college senior, support is adapted to match their environment and goals.

Support That Makes a Real Difference

Executive function coaching isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a proven support model that helps students become more capable, confident, and independent. The data shows real, measurable change, and that change lasts beyond a single semester.

If your student is struggling with focus, organization, or follow-through, Untapped Learning is here to help. We offer one-on-one coaching for middle school, high school, and college students, both in person and virtually. All programs are grounded in the REP Method and built to meet students where they are.