What exactly is life coaching?

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Life coaching is similar to counselling, however I don’t give advice - instead I prompt the child to think about what skills they have that could help them deal with a difficult situation or feeling. Life coaching isn’t an invasive therapy, it is simply enabling the child to see the good in themselves & others, & utilising their own skills to improve how they cope with difficult situations.

 

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How do you coach? what techniques / exercises do you use?

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I help improve their emotional vocabulary through a variety of different exercises, so that they’re able to express their emotions more effectively, meaning us as parents are better able to help them. I also offer relaxation sessions which can include focused breathing & sensory exercises. I use worksheets & fun activities to find out things about them without them feeling like they’re being pressured to talk.

 

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How long are sessions, & how many sessions could my child receive?

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Sessions are typically 45 minutes per week, which gives us enough time to talk, but isn’t too long that the child gets bored or distracted. The number of sessions varies between each child & is completely dependent on their issues & how well they engage with the activities.

 

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Do you discuss the sessions with parents & teachers, or are they confidential?

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I am bound by confidentiality rules, so will be unable to discuss the sessions with parents unless the child permits me to do so or if there are any safety concerns. I understand that not knowing what your child is feeling & discussing with me might be a bit worrying, but I assure you that my aim will be for the child to discuss their issues with you themselves, as this is a major part of coaching in being able to express their feelings & worries.

I can provide feedback to teachers & parents subject to confidentiality, meaning I can disclose how they are progressing but may not always be able to discuss specifics of what the child has discussed with me. I will always share what techniques & exercises I am using to ease any worries you may have.

 

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Does life coaching work?

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Yes! It isn’t a solution for every child’s problem, but if the child engages with the activities & exercises, then their way of thinking & self-esteem can improve greatly.

 

How would i know if my child needs coaching?

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Children with low self-esteem, lack of confidence, anxiety, aggressive behaviour etc could benefit from coaching on a one-to-one basis. If you are unsure whether your child needs life coaching, please contact me & I can discuss this with you.  

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How can coaching affect my child?

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There are numerous ways that coaching can help children, such as;

- Understanding themselves better

- Identifying positive & negative influences in their life

- Building positive relationships

- Managing difficult situations & emotions

- Developing a positive, healthy self-image

- Managing anxiety & stress

- Setting & reaching their goals

- Improving self-esteem & confidence

- Increasing resilience & coping mechanisms

 

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What can i do at home to help my child?

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Try & make time to talk to them about their day & look out for any signs that they have any worries or are upset about something. It doesn’t need to be a long talk, maybe ten minutes at bedtime, or on the way home from school. Let them know they can tell you anything & you will do your best to help. If you feel unable to help them, then you can talk to me & we can work through it together. I’m not just there for the children, I’m there for parents too.

 

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Do you work with children with learning difficulties?

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Yes & no. I can work with children with mild learning difficulties however I am not a qualified therapist & would be unable to deal with any complex issues arising from their disability.

 

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Do you offer private sessions at home & do you work with adults?

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Yes! I can come to your home, or you are welcome to come to mine, which is situated in Holmfirth, near Huddersfield. The sessions last 45 minutes & cost £30. I also work with adults on a one-to-one basis, & sessions can be conducted in person or via video chat at a cost of £30 per hour.

 

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Could it upset my child? 

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The sessions are designed to be fun & thought-provoking. I do not delve into serious issues that a child may have, I aim to discover what they struggle with & then we work together to find a solution. Some children may be nervous or upset & I will endeavour to put them at ease & help them to understand that they only have to talk about what they are comfortable with. However, in the unlikely case of it being too distressing for them, I will immediately stop coaching. I will make sure when they leave my sessions they are feeling positive.

 

 

What are your qualifications?

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I have Certificates in Life Coaching, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, & Neuro-Linguistic Programming.

 

For more information

 

I am happy to meet with you to discuss my role & answer any questions you may have. This can be at the school, your home, or mine. You are also welcome to call or text me on 07702 562 005, or email me at abowmanlifecoach@hotmail.com.