Reading through a few posts here, it struck me that I would absolute LOVE to become some sort of career counselor / consultant who could help other ADD types work through the issues that we all face in the workplace. I also suspect that a role like that would involve a lot of advocacy/activism for changing how ADD is perceived by society, which would be great because part of me needs to be an activist (which was part of what kept me going in software testing -- advocating for the end-user's right to a quality product).

I've thought about career counseling before, and somewhere I heard that those who counsel adults often start out as guidance counselors for younger people. I actually love working with teens -- not everyone's cup of tea, certainly, but I've done a lot of volunteer work with that age group -- so I have seriously thought about following that career path. The "new angle" for today is, I had never thought about building toward a career of helping ADD people find their careers.

Any thoughts? Anyone have a clue how you build a career in this field?

I'm slightly disappointed that no one else finds this an interesting career idea, but it looks like traffic isn't really that high at this forum so I won't read too much into the lack of response.

You seem to have the passion it takes to make this career work for you.You could start a consulting business and go to local schools and adult education seminars. By working with
these students you could help shape there futures ,help awareness where it is needed and make yourself a decent living doing what you like!!!
Now....lets get going!!!!!

Cynically Naive, I wouldnt know how to answer the question since I dont know what your experience is. But I would take ANY relevant education or experience that you have that deals with advocacy, counseling, analytical skills, organizational and interpersonal skills (you can be real creative) and type up a resume with the information. Check out the local social services agencies/ counseling agencies and career assistance agencies. Send your resume or go in and introduce yourself (Only social work types can REALLY get away with this). If they cant offer you a job, they CAN offer advice, leads, therapy lol....Least that can happen is it would be a learning experience!! Good luck! Sounds like a great idea. Ive been working with ADHD children for years and never thought about it. But then I just recently realized that I was ADD.

Oh, And could I be your first client!

OOH! I'll be your second client!!

congrats man, seriously...thats awesome that you've figured out what you want to do..pursue it! you can practice on me :)

Thanks for the encouragement, everyone. Of course that was my "Job Idea o' the Week" for the week I posted it, and I have a million other directions that I feel like I might want to go in, but still.... I think this is worth pursuing, and I will definitely find people in similar fields that I could informationally interview.

And as for my potential clientele.... Give me a couple of years to get my own career issues worked out, and I'll call you back. :D