What Is A Recovery Coach?
Overcoming and recovering from substance dependence is one of the most difficult struggles a person can experience in their life. Substance abuse disorders are chronic but treatable diseases that originates and are influenced by the convoluted innerworkings of “brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences.” This, unfortunately, means there is no simple solution for overcoming a substance abuse disorder nor a determinable completion date on one’s recovery– it is, ultimately, a lifelong process. Studies have found, however, that human connection and understanding are some of the most powerful tools for keeping thoughts of returning to use, at bay. For some, this means joining twelve-step meetings, finding a sponsor or potentially relying on a faith-based program to assist in the recovery process. But for others, these options do not provide the multifaceted support, compassion and dependable personal connection they require for successful recovery – this is where a recovery coach would be beneficial.
Recovery coaching can help individuals recover from a substance abuse disorder, eating disorder, or other compulsions related to mental health or behavioral issues like uncontrollable shopping and gambling. Regardless of what type of recovery journey you’re on, a recovery coach can help you realize your life’s potential by eliminating mental blockades and obstacles that may have prevented sustained success. Similar to a life coach, a dedicated recovery coach will work closely with you to create a recovery plan that is a balance of tools and programs that work for you and your specific requirements. Your recovery coach will act as your personal confidant and mentor during your journey to a more fulfilling and happier life.
Recovery is a long-term process, but with strengths-based support as well as real-world, tangible tools and guidelines, it is possible to heal. At this point, you may be wondering what exactly a certified recovery coach can provide you during this time of transition. Typically, the most arduous piece of recovery is integrating back into your old life once substance abuse and mental health treatments come to an end. Once the rigid structure and constant support of treatment services end, most recovering addicts are place back in the same environment that encouraged their self-destructive thoughts and behaviors and consequently increasing the risk of return to use. Navigating such a situation can be overwhelming and disheartening, but you don’t have to do it alone. That’s where recovery coach services come in to play.
Recovery coaches are not aligned with any method of recovery but rather operate on the belief that everyone is the expert on their own life, resulting in more intuitive and personalized guidance than some types of support may provide. Taking on the role as ally, cheerleader, role model and problem solver, your personal recovery coach can provide the motivation and accountability necessary to maintain your long-term recovery and regain your sense of freedom. Working together, your coach can help you identify potential triggers in your daily environment, create personal coping strategies, discover helpful resources, hold you accountable and make decisions that support your recovery. As mentioned earlier, recovery coaches and life coaches operate similarly, resulting in a mentor who not only has the tools to help you remain sober but also how to live your new sober life to its fullest. Ranging from career, education, spirituality, daily routines and relationships, all these aspects of a person’s life are directly link to their ability to stay sober and find success (whatever that may mean to them). By allowing a certified and professional recovery coach to bridge the gap between recovery and actually living, you can finally achieve the life you’ve been fighting for.
Recovery Coaching vs Sponsorship
When someone hears the term “recovery,” their mind tends to jump to twelve-step models, like Alcoholics Anonymous, as well as sponsors and religious programs. However, these recovery treatment options might not work for everyone hoping to maintain a sober lifestyle, for a myriad of reasons. You may struggle with the faith-based aspect of a program, feeling uncomfortable or out of place. Maybe the lack of structure characteristic of 12-step programs has left you feeling adrift and overwhelmed. Or perhaps the setting of such a program has you reconsidering – group settings and opening up to strangers can feel dangerous or counterproductive to the recovery journey and possibly damage the progress you’ve made so far.
There is also no guarantee that, with these programs, you find the connection and compassion you truly need for continued recovery. Sponsorships are intended to establish a framework of support for those in recovery. However, they depend heavily on the compatibility between sponsor and sponsored as well as the sponsor’s dedication to others and providing guidance that is helpful rather than harmful (every individual’s course to recovery will look different). There is no formal training required nor qualifications that must be met in order to be a sponsor. So even if you do find someone willing to take on the role, you can only hope they will hold your health and recovery in importance while also avoiding co-dependency. However, these issues can be avoided by finding a certified recovery coach who has the training as well as lived experience necessary to provide effective tools and support essential for continued recovery.
Recovery Is Possible
Maximum You Coaching is led by a certified recovery and relationship coach dedicated to each client’s recovery journey while providing empathetic and useful guidance as they navigate this difficult but rewarding path. At Maximum You Coaching, helping others find success in recovery has been an integral part of the equation since the very beginning. Some past credentials include being an integral part in establishing recovery-support curriculum for Options Family Behavior Services in Eagan, Minnesota. By focusing on the development of personal and effective recovery plans and providing active assistance in utilizing said roadmaps – Maximum You Coaching was able to help more than a hundred men and women achieve the lives they had been dreaming of.
With years of experience in the field of recovery support as well as lived experience, Maximum You Coaching provides clients with passionate support and substantial guidance tailored to your particular wants, needs and beliefs. Navigate the complexities surrounding the balancing of relationships and the recovery journey in a space where you are enlightened and encouraged by a certified professional who is in long-term recovery themselves. At Maximum You Coaching, you can get the help you need to significantly increase your odds for permanent recovery and finally get your freedom back.
If you or a loved one is close to finishing or has completed substance abuse or mental health treatment, Maximum You Coaching can provide continued support. Send an online message for more information or call today to schedule your appointment – both in-person or telephone session available.