Coaching provides teens a safe space to learn tools, share their struggles and achievements, and gain the confidence they need to do their best.
In the crowded world of today's teenagers, the need for support is greater than ever. Unfortunately, parents cannot always fill that need. Teens are preparing themselves for a life independent of their parents, so it's not unusual for them to pull away. And believe it or not, they don't want to disappoint you! They may hide information, thoughts, or feelings from you that they think will be met with disapproval, judgement, or disappointment.
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Think about what they could accomplish with conscious goal setting, an unburdened outlook, an accountability partner. Study habits, time management, organizational skills, general wellbeing, social relationships, family life, and more - there are all areas we can work on together. You may be surprised by the impact a coach can have.
Many would benefit greatly from being able to speak freely with an impartial adult. I give your teen the chance to vent freely and confidentially about anything they want, and I offer trustworthy support without any judgement.
Teenagers need to feel validated and understood to make strides in their lives. They have huge untapped potential and are very capable, but their experience is clouded by the unrelenting pull of social media, cyberbullying, the pressures of 'success', expectations of parents/teachers/friends, competition for college admissions/sports teams/good grades, and so much more.
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Coaching can help young people develop life skills and learn how to manage some of the stresses that come along the way:
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They have the opportunity to talk about difficult subjects, such as bullying and relationships
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They are encouraged to see the world from a fresh perspective
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They can begin to set goals for self-improvement
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They learn to handle and manage emotions
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They get the support of an objective and non-judgemental mentor
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They learn to build confidence and social skills
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They will leave with a new sense of motivation and a boost of inspiration
How will my teen benefit?
how will i (the parent) benefit?
There's something in it for you too! As a parent, you probably worry about your teenager and want what's best for them. It can be painful to realize that you can't always be the one to help them. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is to let someone else help.
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The benefits to parents are:
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The knowledge that I, as a coach, can approach any subjects your child feels unable to talk about with you. Even though you may not be able to help them personally, you can find reassurance in knowing they have someone to talk to.
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Through coaching, your child will develop mature ways to deal with conflict, stress and anger, which could potentially make family life easier.
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Coaching can help your child better understand the emotions they are experiencing and how to manage them. This often results in an easier parent-child relationship.
Parents often wonder if their teen needs coaching or counseling. Coaching helps teens identify and develop strengths, and focuses on solving problems, action steps and the future. It's about tapping into and fulfilling potential. Counseling or therapy, on the other hand, is about fixing what's "broken" and healing dysfunction. The focus is on past events and finding resolution.
Please note that if your teen is in crisis (engaging in self harm or having suicidal thoughts), counseling is the right choice.
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In all cases, if I work with your child but determine that coaching is not the right fit, I will help you find an appropriate professional.