The Parent's Guide to a Virtual ADHD Coach for Teens USA
- Kubby

- 3 days ago
- 21 min read
You see the intelligence, creativity, and humor in your teen every day. But you also see how challenges with executive function—like planning, prioritizing, and staying on task—can mask their true abilities and chip away at their self-esteem. It’s not a matter of willpower or not caring enough; it’s about needing a different toolkit. ADHD coaching provides that toolkit. It’s a collaborative process that helps your teen understand their unique brain wiring and build practical skills to work with it, not against it. The right virtual ADHD coach for teens USA can be the guide who helps them translate their potential into tangible success, both in and out of the classroom.
Key Takeaways
- Coaching Provides a Practical Toolkit for ADHD
: This isn't just about talking through problems; it's about building real-world skills. A coach works with your teen to create personalized systems for managing time, organizing tasks, and breaking down overwhelming projects into achievable steps.
- The Virtual Format is Often More Effective
: Meeting online removes the pressure of a formal office visit and allows your teen to connect from a space where they feel comfortable and in control. This familiarity helps build trust and encourages more open, productive conversations.
- Your Support at Home Makes a Difference
: You are a key part of the team. By creating a quiet space for sessions, staying in touch with the coach, and gently encouraging your teen to use their new strategies, you reinforce their progress and help turn learned skills into lasting habits.
What Is Virtual ADHD Coaching for Teens?
If you’re watching your teen struggle with the daily challenges of ADHD, you know how much it can impact everything from homework to friendships. Virtual ADHD coaching is a specialized form of support designed to help them build the practical skills they need to thrive. Think of it as having a personal trainer for their brain. A coach works one-on-one with your teen online to create personalized strategies for managing time, staying organized, and tackling overwhelming tasks.
Unlike a tutor who focuses solely on academics, an ADHD coach looks at the bigger picture. The goal is to equip your teen with tools to manage the executive function challenges that come with ADHD, helping them prepare for the increasing demands of high school, college, and eventually, their careers. It’s a collaborative partnership that empowers your teen to understand how their brain works and use it to their advantage. Through regular online sessions, they get consistent support and accountability, helping them turn goals into real, lasting habits. This kind of online life coaching gives them the scaffolding they need to build a more confident and independent future.
How It's Different From Traditional Therapy
It’s easy to confuse coaching with therapy, but they serve very different purposes. While therapy often delves into the past to understand the emotional roots of behaviors and heal psychological wounds, coaching is forward-facing and action-oriented. An ADHD coach isn’t there to diagnose or treat mental health conditions; they’re there to help your teen build skills. The focus is less on the “why” and more on the “how.”
The entire point of an ADHD coach is to learn strategies that work specifically for the ADHD brain. Instead of talking about feelings of frustration, a coach helps your teen create a system to prevent the assignment from being forgotten in the first place. It’s not about fixing a behavioral problem—it’s about developing practical skills and systems to manage ADHD effectively in day-to-day life.
Key Benefits for Teens with ADHD
When your teen starts working with a virtual ADHD coach, the changes can be transformative, both in and out of the classroom. One of the first areas you’ll likely see improvement is in their schoolwork. As they learn how to organize their materials, manage their time, and focus on tasks, their grades and confidence often follow suit. This newfound structure also spills over into their social lives, helping them better handle social situations and strengthen their relationships.
Beyond the immediate wins, coaching helps your teen build healthy habits that will serve them for a lifetime. They aren’t just learning how to pass a history test; they’re learning how to be successful and independent adults. The skills they develop—from breaking down big projects to creating sustainable routines—are the foundation for a brighter future. You can see the impact this kind of support has by reading testimonials from families who have been through the process.
Why Does Virtual ADHD Coaching Work So Well for Teens?
Virtual coaching isn't just a convenient alternative to in-person meetings; for teens with ADHD, it's often a more effective format. It removes common barriers like travel and scheduling conflicts, but more importantly, it meets them in a comfortable and familiar environment. By leveraging the digital world where teens already spend so much of their time, online coaching creates a space where they are more likely to engage, open up, and build lasting skills. This approach transforms coaching from a formal appointment into an accessible conversation that fits right into their lives.
Meeting Teens Where They Are: Online
Teens are digital natives. Meeting them online for coaching feels natural, not like another stuffy appointment they have to get through. They can connect from their own room, a space where they already feel comfortable and in control. This familiarity is key to building trust and making progress. Online ADHD coaching provides specialized support and tools to help them prepare for big transitions like college and future careers. An online counselor and life coach can guide them through these challenges in an environment where they feel at home, making the process less intimidating and more effective from the start.
The Convenience of Coaching from Home
The practical benefits of virtual coaching are a huge relief for busy families. With no commute, scheduling sessions becomes much simpler, which is crucial for building the consistency needed for real change. For your teen, having sessions from the privacy of home can feel less stressful and more confidential. It also means you aren't limited by your location; you can find the best coach for your teen’s specific needs, no matter where you live. This accessibility ensures they get steady, high-quality support to help them develop empowering habits and stay on track with their goals.
A More Comfortable, Stigma-Free Space
Many teens resist traditional therapy because they worry about being judged or labeled. Virtual coaching often sidesteps this hurdle. A video call can feel more like a chat with a mentor, which helps lower their defenses and encourages honesty. It creates a private space where they can talk openly without feeling like they're under a microscope. There's a common myth that teens with ADHD don't care about their future, but they often just need help channeling their motivation. In a comfortable setting, they can learn to use powerful tools for their mind that feel less like treatment and more like personal upgrades.
How to Choose the Right Virtual ADHD Coach
Finding the right coach for your teen is about more than just credentials; it’s about finding a partner who clicks with your child and understands your family’s goals. With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. Think of this as a hiring process where the main qualifications are expertise, connection, and a clear plan for success. By focusing on a few key areas, you can confidently find a virtual coach who will make a real difference.
Look for Key Qualifications and Certifications
First things first, you want to know that the person you’re trusting with your teen’s development has the right training. While a friendly personality is great, it needs to be backed by a solid understanding of ADHD and effective coaching strategies. Just as ADHD coaching goals are highly personal, most ADHD coaches are highly specialized. Look for certifications from reputable coaching organizations. This shows they’ve invested in their education and are committed to a professional standard. Don’t be shy about asking about their specific training in ADHD, executive function, and adolescent development during your initial consultation.
Ensure They Specialize in Working with Teens
Coaching a 16-year-old is worlds away from coaching a 40-year-old. Teens face a unique storm of academic pressure, social changes, and the transition toward independence. A coach who specializes in this age group understands this landscape intimately. They know how to build rapport, communicate in a way that resonates, and address the specific challenges of ADHD as teens prepare for college and adulthood. When you’re vetting coaches, ask about their experience with teenagers and what makes their approach effective for this specific demographic. The right coach will speak their language and earn their trust.
Find a Coach with a Personalized Approach
ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all condition, and the coaching shouldn't be either. The best coaches avoid cookie-cutter programs and instead take the time to understand your teen’s unique brain wiring, strengths, and struggles. They should be interested in creating a special program that fits your family’s specific needs and goals. At WIDE AWAKE, we use a variety of tools and techniques because we know that personalization is the key to creating lasting change. A coach should be a collaborator, working with your teen to build strategies that feel authentic and manageable for them.
Ask About Their Progress Tracking Methods
How will you know if coaching is working? A great coach will have a clear answer to that question. They should have a system for setting measurable goals and tracking progress along the way. Regular meetings are essential for keeping teens motivated and making sure the plan is on the right track, with adjustments as needed. Ask potential coaches how they define and measure success. Do they provide regular updates to parents? How do they help teens see their own growth? Clear benchmarks and consistent communication ensure that everyone is aligned and that your investment is paying off.
Top Virtual ADHD Coaching Services for Teens
Finding the right coach for your teen can feel like a huge task, but you’ve already taken the most important step by starting the search. The good news is there are some fantastic virtual coaching services designed specifically for teens who need help with focus, organization, and motivation. To make your decision a little easier, here are a few options to consider, including our own approach here at WIDE AWAKE.
WIDE AWAKE Life Coaching and Counseling
While many services focus strictly on ADHD, we take a broader approach to help teens and young adults build confidence and find direction. Our method is designed to get to the root of what’s holding your teen back, whether it’s anxiety, a lack of motivation, or feeling overwhelmed. We use powerful neuro-hacking tools to help them identify and break negative patterns quickly. Our online life coaches work with your teen to design a lifestyle that feels empowering and joyful, equipping them with skills that last a lifetime. We focus on creating clarity and purpose, which are game-changers for any young person struggling to keep up.
Other Reputable Coaching Platforms
It’s always a good idea to explore a few different programs to see what resonates with your family. Here are some other well-regarded virtual coaching services:
- Coachbit:
This service is for teens aged 11-21 and centers on building daily habits and routines. Parents appreciate the daily accountability from a coach and the weekly progress reports.
- ADHD Training Center:
They offer online coaching that helps teens prepare for the transition to adulthood, college, and the workforce, with session plans tailored to each teen’s specific goals.
- Peak Academic Coaching:
This platform combines online tutoring with coaching, creating personalized programs that focus on building executive functioning and other essential life skills.
How to Compare Different Services
As you look at different options, it helps to have a mental checklist. First, look for a coach who specializes in working with teens and understands their unique challenges. A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works, so ask about how they create a personalized coaching plan for each client. Consider the format, too. For many teens, meeting a coach online from the comfort of home feels much less stressful and more private. Finally, ask how they involve parents. You want a coach who provides regular updates and gives you advice on how to support your teen’s progress at home.
What's the Investment for Virtual ADHD Coaching?
Thinking about the cost of coaching is a practical and important step. It’s helpful to frame it not just as an expense, but as an investment in your teen’s future—giving them the tools and strategies they need to build confidence and become more independent. The price for virtual ADHD coaching can vary quite a bit, depending on the coach’s experience, the length and frequency of sessions, and the level of support included.
Many parents find that the long-term benefits, like improved grades, better family dynamics, and a happier, more motivated teen, are well worth the upfront cost. The key is to find a program that fits your family’s budget while providing the specific support your teen needs to thrive. Let's walk through the different financial aspects so you can feel clear and confident in your decision.
Understanding Pricing and Payment Models
When you start looking into different coaching services, you’ll notice a few common pricing structures. Some coaches charge by the hour, while others offer monthly packages or subscription-based models that include a set number of sessions and ongoing support, like text or email check-ins. A subscription can be a great option because it provides consistent, predictable support, which is exactly what helps new habits stick.
Pricing often reflects the intensity of the program. A service that offers daily accountability from a coach will naturally have a different price point than one with bi-weekly sessions. Don’t hesitate to ask for a full breakdown of what’s included so you can compare apples to apples. Many platforms offer flexible pricing tiers to accommodate different needs and budgets.
Using Insurance, HSAs, or FSAs
This is where you can get savvy with your spending. While ADHD coaching isn't always covered by traditional health insurance—it's not considered therapy—many families can use pre-tax dollars to pay for it. If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) through your employer, you can often use those funds for coaching services. This is a fantastic way to make your money go further, potentially saving you a significant amount.
The first step is to check the specifics of your plan. You can call your HSA or FSA administrator to confirm that coaching is a qualified medical expense. Some may require a Letter of Medical Necessity from your teen’s doctor, which is usually straightforward to obtain. It’s a little bit of homework that can lead to big savings.
Exploring Financial Assistance Options
Beyond insurance and savings accounts, it’s always worth asking coaching providers directly about your options. Some may offer flexible payment plans that allow you to spread the cost over several months, making the investment more manageable for your family’s budget. While less common, some independent coaches or non-profits may have sliding scale fees based on income.
Ultimately, the goal is to find a sustainable plan that provides your teen with consistent support. Regular meetings are what keep them motivated and on track, and it allows the coach to adjust strategies as needed. Think of it as investing in a personalized toolkit that will empower your teen for years to come, helping them build a foundation for a successful and fulfilling future.
What Strategies Do Virtual ADHD Coaches Use?
If you’ve ever felt like you’re just telling your teen to “focus more” or “try harder,” you know it’s not that simple. A virtual ADHD coach understands this. They don’t rely on generic advice; instead, they use specific, evidence-based strategies designed to work with your teen’s unique brain wiring, not against it. The goal is to move beyond the constant struggle and equip your teen with practical tools they can use for the rest of their life.
A coach’s toolkit is filled with techniques that address the core challenges of ADHD, from managing time to starting a big project. They act as a guide, helping your teen understand why certain things are difficult and then co-creating systems to make them easier. This process is collaborative and empowering. Rather than just being told what to do, your teen becomes an active participant in designing a life that feels less chaotic and more intentional. It’s about building skills, not just willpower, and showing them they are capable of achieving their goals. This partnership helps your teen build self-awareness and take ownership of their strategies, which is crucial for long-term success.
Break Down Overwhelming Tasks
That ten-page history paper or a messy bedroom can feel like an impossible mountain to climb for a teen with ADHD. This feeling, often called task paralysis, is where a coach’s first strategy comes in. They help your teen see the mountain not as one giant obstacle, but as a series of small, manageable hills. A coach will work with your teen to break down big tasks into what one expert calls “tiny steps.” This makes the project feel less overwhelming and gives them a clear starting point. For example, “clean your room” becomes “put all the clothes in the hamper,” then “put books back on the shelf.” Each completed step provides a small win, building momentum and confidence.
Build Executive Functioning and Organization Skills
Executive functions are the management skills of the brain—they help us plan, organize, prioritize, and manage our time. For many teens with ADHD, these skills don’t develop as easily. A virtual coach acts as a personal trainer for these mental muscles. They teach concrete skills like how to use a planner effectively, how to prioritize a to-do list when everything feels urgent, and how to organize a backpack so homework actually makes it to school. The coach helps your teen develop executive functioning skills by creating personalized systems that stick, whether it’s through digital apps, visual timers, or color-coded folders.
Create Sustainable Habits and Routines
Quick fixes and last-minute cram sessions are often the default for teens with ADHD, but they lead to burnout and stress. A coach focuses on building habits that last, creating a stable foundation for daily life. They help your teen design simple, repeatable routines for mornings, after school, and bedtime. This structure reduces the number of decisions your teen has to make each day, freeing up mental energy for more important things. By consistently practicing these routines with the coach’s support, your teen internalizes these habits, leading to greater independence and a sense of control over their day.
Sharpen Focus and Manage Distractions
It’s a common myth that kids with ADHD have a deficit of attention. As the Child Mind Institute points out, it’s more about having a hard time directing their attention to things that aren’t immediately rewarding, like homework or chores. A coach helps your teen become a detective, identifying their biggest internal and external distractions—from a buzzing phone to wandering thoughts. Together, they develop a plan to manage them. This might include setting up a dedicated study space, using the Pomodoro technique (working in short, focused bursts), or learning mindfulness exercises to gently bring their attention back when it strays. The goal is to empower your teen to take charge of their focus.
Common Myths About Virtual ADHD Coaching
If you’re new to the idea of virtual coaching, it’s completely normal to have questions and even a few doubts. The online world is vast, and it can be tough to know what’s truly effective. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths about virtual ADHD coaching so you can feel confident in the path you choose for your teen. Understanding what it is—and what it isn’t—is the first step toward finding the right support.
Myth: It's Not as Effective as In-Person Coaching
It’s easy to assume that a face-to-face meeting is always better, but when it comes to coaching teens, virtual sessions often have a distinct advantage. The effectiveness of coaching isn’t about being in the same room; it’s about connection, understanding, and providing the right tools. Online ADHD coaching gives teens specialized support to help them prepare for big steps like college and their first jobs. Because it happens in a space where they already feel comfortable—online—many teens are more open and engaged than they might be in a traditional office setting. This makes it easier for them to absorb strategies and build a strong, trusting relationship with their online life coach.
Myth: It's Just Another Form of Therapy
While coaching and therapy can both be incredibly helpful, they serve different purposes. Therapy often focuses on healing by exploring the past and the emotional "why" behind behaviors. ADHD coaching, on the other hand, is action-oriented and forward-looking. It’s all about the "how." A coach helps your teen build practical skills and strategies that work specifically for the ADHD brain. The goal is to create personalized systems for managing time, organizing tasks, and building momentum on goals. It’s less about processing trauma and more about designing a life that works for them, right now and in the future.
Myth: It Can Replace Medication or Other Treatments
This is a big one. While many parents hope to find alternatives to medication, it’s important to see coaching for what it is: a powerful behavioral support, not a medical treatment. Coaching doesn’t change brain chemistry. Instead, it teaches your teen how to work with their unique brain wiring. As the Child Mind Institute points out, kids with ADHD often struggle to direct their attention to things that aren't immediately rewarding, like homework. An ADHD coach provides the scaffolding and strategies to bridge that gap. Think of coaching as one essential part of a holistic plan that may also include medication, therapy, and academic support, all working together to help your teen thrive.
How to Support Your Teen Through the Coaching Process
When you invest in an ADHD coach for your teen, you’re giving them a powerful ally. But your role as a parent is just as important. You’re not a bystander in this process; you’re a key part of the support system that helps your teen turn new strategies into lasting habits. By creating a positive environment for coaching, you can significantly influence its success. Think of yourself, your teen, and their coach as a team working toward the same goal: helping your teen feel more confident, capable, and in control of their life. Your active encouragement and partnership can make all the difference.
Create a Supportive Space for Sessions
For virtual coaching to be effective, your teen needs a space where they can focus and feel comfortable opening up. Before each session, help them find a quiet, private spot in the house, away from family noise and distractions. Make sure their tech is ready to go—a charged laptop, a stable internet connection, and maybe a pair of headphones. This simple setup signals that you take their coaching seriously and respect their time. An online counselor provides specialized support and tools, and creating the right environment ensures your teen can get the most out of every minute with them.
Stay in Touch with Their Coach
Building a relationship with your teen’s coach is essential. This isn’t about checking up on your teen; it’s about creating a collaborative partnership. A good coach will provide you with updates and advice to help you support your teen’s progress at home. Schedule brief, regular check-ins to stay aligned on goals and learn which strategies are being introduced. This open line of communication allows you to become a more effective ally in your teen’s journey. Hearing from other parents about their experiences can also be incredibly validating, showing how this teamwork pays off in the long run.
Reinforce New Strategies at Home
The real growth happens when your teen starts applying the skills they learn in coaching to their everyday life. As a parent, you can gently reinforce these new strategies at home. If their coach is helping them with time management, you can ask, “What’s your plan for getting homework done tonight?” instead of just asking if it’s finished. When you see them using a new organizational tool or communication technique, acknowledge their effort. This positive reinforcement shows them that you notice their hard work and believe in their ability to change. For more ideas, our blog offers plenty of resources for parents.
Encourage Consistent Attendance
Progress in coaching is built on momentum. Each session builds on the last, so consistent attendance is crucial for seeing real, lasting results. Treat coaching appointments as important, non-negotiable commitments. Help your teen remember their sessions by putting them on a family calendar or setting reminders. Regular meetings keep your teen engaged and accountable, allowing the coach to adjust plans as needed and celebrate small wins along the way. By prioritizing their sessions, you send a clear message: their personal growth is a top priority, and you are fully invested in their success.
Virtual vs. In-Person: Which Is Right for Your Teen?
Deciding on the right format for coaching can feel like a big choice, but the good news is that both virtual and in-person options are designed to help your teen succeed. The best path forward depends entirely on your teen’s personality, comfort level, and specific needs. There’s no single right answer, only what’s right for your family. Thinking through the benefits of each can help you make a confident decision that sets your teen up for success from day one.
The Case for Virtual Coaching
For many teens, especially those with ADHD, virtual coaching is a game-changer. The biggest advantage is accessibility—your teen can connect with their coach from anywhere, ensuring consistent support even with a busy schedule. This flexibility often makes the experience feel less intimidating and more private, as they can join sessions from the comfort of their own room. Many teens are digital natives and feel completely at ease with video calls and interactive apps. This format meets them where they are, making it easier to build rapport and focus on creating lasting habits. Because of this convenience and comfort, many families find that an online counselor is a fantastic fit for their teen’s lifestyle.
When to Consider In-Person Coaching
While virtual coaching has clear benefits, it isn’t the perfect solution for everyone. Some teens simply thrive on face-to-face interaction and may find it easier to connect and stay engaged without a screen in between. If your teen struggles with technology or gets easily distracted in their home environment, in-person sessions can provide a more structured and focused setting. This direct interaction can be powerful for building a strong relationship with their coach. You know your child best—if they communicate more effectively in person or you feel they’d benefit from the accountability of a physical appointment, then exploring local, in-person options is a great idea.
How to Decide What Your Teen Needs
The best way to choose is to consider your teen’s individual learning style and preferences. Think about how they communicate best. Are they comfortable on video calls, or do they shut down? Do they need a quiet, structured space to focus, or are they self-motivated at home? A great coach will tailor their approach to your teen’s specific goals, whether online or in person. They focus on practical strategies, like breaking down overwhelming projects into tiny, manageable steps to build confidence. A good coaching partnership also involves you, with many coaches providing updates and advice to help you support your teen at home. Talk with your teen about what feels right for them—their buy-in is a huge part of making the process work.
How to Get Started with Virtual ADHD Coaching
Once you’ve found a coach who seems like a great fit, taking the first steps can feel both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. The good news is that a structured onboarding process is designed to make this transition smooth for both you and your teen. It’s all about setting a strong foundation for success. Here’s what you can typically expect when you begin.
The First Step: Assessment and Goal Setting
The journey begins with an initial assessment. This isn't a test, but rather a conversation to understand your teen’s unique world—their strengths, their struggles, and what they want to achieve. The whole point of ADHD coaching is to find strategies that work specifically for a brain that's wired differently. A great online counselor and life coach will use this first meeting to listen carefully and collaborate with your teen to set meaningful, achievable goals. This personalized approach ensures the coaching is tailored from the very start, moving beyond generic advice to create a plan that truly resonates. It’s the first step in helping your teen feel seen, heard, and understood.
Prepare Your Teen for Their First Session
You play a huge role in helping your teen get the most out of coaching. Before the first session, have a low-pressure chat with them about what they hope to get out of the experience. What feels hard right now? What would they like to change? Encourage them to be open and honest with their coach—this is their time and space to talk freely. It can also help to show them who they'll be talking to. Sharing a bit about the coach's story can make them feel more like a real person and less like a stranger. Framing coaching as a partnership, where they are in the driver's seat, empowers them to take ownership of their growth from day one.
Build Momentum and Track Progress from Day One
Consistency is everything. Regular meetings help your teen stay motivated and build on what they learn each week. A skilled coach will create a sense of momentum, celebrating small wins and adjusting the plan as your teen makes progress. This isn't a rigid program; it's a dynamic process that evolves with your teen's needs. The goal is to help them build healthy, sustainable habits that will serve them long after coaching ends. Seeing their own progress is incredibly empowering for teens, and many find it helpful to see how far they've come. Reading about the success of other young people can also be a great source of inspiration as they start their own journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is ADHD coaching different from academic tutoring? A tutor is fantastic for helping your teen understand a specific subject, like chemistry or history. An ADHD coach, on the other hand, focuses on the skills behind the schoolwork. They help your teen build the executive function muscles needed to plan a project, manage their time, and stay organized across all their classes. Think of it this way: a tutor helps them with the what, while a coach helps them with the how.
How long will it take to see changes in my teen? Every teen’s journey is unique, so there isn’t a set timeline. You might notice small but significant shifts early on, like your teen feeling less overwhelmed or starting their homework with less prompting. Building deep, lasting habits takes consistency and time. The goal is to create sustainable change, not just a temporary fix, so progress is measured in steady growth rather than an overnight transformation.
What if my teen is resistant to the idea of coaching? This is a completely normal and valid concern. The key is to frame coaching as a partnership rather than a punishment. Explain that a coach is an ally who can help them feel less stressed and more in control of their life. It often helps to involve your teen in the selection process, letting them watch videos or read about a potential coach. Once they experience a session and realize it’s a supportive, non-judgmental space, that initial resistance usually melts away.
Can coaching help with things beyond homework and grades? Absolutely. While better grades are often a result of coaching, the skills your teen learns are for life, not just for school. These strategies help them manage social commitments, handle chores with less conflict, and communicate their needs more effectively. Ultimately, coaching is about building confidence, independence, and self-awareness—tools that are essential for building healthy relationships and a fulfilling future.
What is my role as a parent in this process? Your role is to be a supportive partner. This means creating a quiet space for their virtual sessions, staying in communication with the coach to understand what they’re working on, and gently encouraging your teen to use their new strategies at home. You’re not expected to become a coach yourself, but your positive reinforcement and belief in their ability to grow will make a huge difference in their success.



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