Getting started with recovery coaching

Posted: January 18, 2022
Last updated: November 10, 2023
Table of Contents
It’s worth putting some time into finding the right recovery coach. In this article we step through how to choose a recovery coach who’s a great fit for you.

New to recovery coaching? Here’s your guide to getting started.

If you haven’t used recovery coaching before, it can be difficult to know where to start. First, you need to find a recovery coach, and it’s well worth putting some time into finding the right one for you, so you can create a longstanding professional relationship with this person. This way they can really get to know you and support you over the long term. At Goal Coach, the way we look at recovery coaching is that it’s our job to support you to live your life well – and this is different for each person. You’re the expert in your own life, so we work with you at your pace to make your own decisions, build on your strengths and gain more independence. Whatever your goals, and whatever challenges you’re facing, we partner with you to find solutions that work for you. Finding a recovery coach you click with will really make a difference to the outcomes you can achieve together. In this article, we’ll look at how to decide what you want in a recovery coach, things to ask your new/potential recovery coach, and how to choose the right one.

Finding recovery coaches

The first step is to build a list of recovery coaches. You’ve already found one option: Goal Coach! Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends are also great, or referrals from trusted third parties like other providers – just make sure it’s a genuine recommendation and that they’re not affiliated with the business in some way.

What do you want in a recovery coach?

Have a think about what’s important to you in a recovery coach. You’ll want to discuss how much experience they have and how they intend to support you with the goals you want to focus on. Some recovery coaches have lived experience which helps them to connect with their clients because they’ve been through the same situations themselves. If you’re looking at using a recovery coach with lived experience, ensure they have had training to understand how to work with you safely, in ways that support your mental wellbeing, including being sensitive to the potential impacts of trauma. Learn more about Goal Coach’s fully qualified recovery coaches and our approach to recovery coaching. Is it important to you that your recovery coach is independent? An independent recovery coach (like Goal Coach) doesn’t provide any core daily supports, meaning they can actively work with your other services – without any conflict of interest – to make sure you’re being supported the way you choose. It’s also worth considering whether you’d prefer to have sessions with your coach in person or online (or a mix of both). In-person appointments are sometimes better for establishing rapport, but depending where you are located, you may have more coaches to choose from if you are open to online appointments by video call.

Finding out more

It is helpful to ask some questions of the recovery coaching service you are interested in to get an understanding of whether they are a good fit for you and your needs. We’ve put together some suggestions for questions you could ask when you call.

Questions about the service

  • Tell me about your recovery coaching service?
  • How long have you been delivering recovery coaching?
  • Are you an independent recovery coaching service, or do you also provide core daily supports?
  • Is your service mobile/online or do I have to come to you?
  • Do you offer over the phone or video coaching as well as face to face?
  • Between what hours can I reach my recovery coach?
  • How much do you charge for recovery coaching?

Questions about the coach

  • Tell me about your experience as a recovery coach? What qualifications do you have?
  • What do you love about being a recovery coach?
  • What do you do when you don’t know what to do?
  • Sometimes I experience… how would you work with me if …?
  • How do you keep up to date in your role?
  • Are there any tools or resources you will use with me as part of your coaching service?

Choosing your recovery coach

When you’re ready to make a choice run through this checklist:
  • I’m comfortable the organisation and coach has the necessary skills, competencies and experience to work with me on my recovery goals
  • I have had enough opportunity to ask questions and feel the coach has listened to me
  • The organisation and/or coach has a network they can reach out to if they don’t know what to do, or need professional assistance
  • I know how the coach will work with me throughout, and I’m comfortable with the format
  • My coach has explained how they will work with others and manage any conflicts, remaining focused on my individual goals and rights
  • I felt I connected with my coach when I spoke with them.

If you want to find out more about Goal Coach, book a free 15-minute chat to ask us your list of questions and see if we’re right for you.

Make the most out of your NDIS plan today. Australia’s leading recovery coaches are here for you!

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No matter what stage you’re at, or your family’s situation – good coaching can make all the difference. We believe in getting you the right information and support when you need it, and for an affordable price. Knowledge is power. Submit your details to find out more today.

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