Why consider a youth coach?
Sometimes the help and support offered at schools are not enough, and referral to a psychologist may not feel right (yet). A youth coach can be a useful solution. A youth coach understands what is going on and helps the teenager identifying their needs and discuss their concerns. While some need a hand in dealing with their issues, others may only need to be pointed in the right direction.
How it works
The first step is that either your parents or you contact me by phone or email. We will schedule a first meeting. It is up to you to come on your own or bring along your parent(s).
During this introductory meeting we discuss your situation. I will listen to you and will discuss whether coaching might work for you. If I think I could be of any help I will tell you how many sessions are (approximately) needed. However, I am flexible and the actual number of sessions needed/wanted depends on you.
If you agree to continue the coaching sessions (and your parents agree as well) I will continue with you only.
Depending on the situation it may be helpful to involve your parents in the talks. However, they will not be involved without your consent.
At the end of the series of coaching sessions we have a a final session to evaluate your process. Usually your parents are invited for this talk.
It may be that I am not the right person for you. In that case I will discuss this with you (and your parents).
What to expect?
A coaching session may sound scary or may feel awkward, but it is not. I will simply talk to you and listen to your story as I am curious to get to know you. It is equally important that you get to know and trust me.
Together we will explore what you would like to achieve and what is needed. Do not expect difficult sessions all the time with lots of “soulsearching”. Young people I have coached say talks are mostly light hearted. You are in control , decide the pace and what you want to discuss.