Coaching

Education coaching does not replace therapeutic services but can complement these services by providing targeted support in an area of need that affects education.

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Executive Functioning

Executive functioning skills are mental processes that help you get things done, make decisions, and control your behavior. They allow you to plan, prioritize, initiate, and complete tasks, as well as regulate your emotions and behavior. Examples of executive functioning skills include working memory, flexibility, self-control, time management, attention, flexibility, problem-solving, and organization.

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Coaching can help by:

• Assessing the student's strengths and challenges with executive functioning

• Teaching specific strategies and techniques to improve executive functioning, such as goal setting, time management, and organization

• Encouraging the use of technology and other tools to support executive functioning

• Working with students to identify and break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps

• Teaching problem-solving and decision-making skills

• Encouraging self-reflection and self-evaluation

• Supporting the development of working memory and attentional control

• Providing guidance on how to prioritize tasks and manage distractions

• Monitoring progress and adjusting the coaching plan as needed

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School Anxiety/School Refusal

School anxiety, also known as school refusal, is a condition in which a student experiences high levels of anxiety or distress related to attending school. School anxiety can manifest in different ways, such as:

1. Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, nausea, or vomiting.

2. Emotional symptoms such as crying, irritability, or panic attacks.

3. Behavioral symptoms such as temper tantrums, clinginess, or refusing to leave home.

4. Academic difficulties such as falling behind in schoolwork or failing classes.

It is important to address school anxiety or refusal early on, as prolonged absence from school can have negative effects on a child's social, emotional, and academic development.

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Coaching can help by:

• Discovering the underlying causes of school refusal behavior

• Collaborating with families, teachers, and other school personnel

• Developing a positive and individualized treatment plan

• Encouraging gradual reentry into school and building a sense of safety and support

• Coping skills training and stress management techniques

• Assistance addressing any academic or social difficulties at school

• Developing a plan for addressing future absences

• Encouraging and reinforcing positive attendance and school engagement

• Monitoring progress and making adjustments to the treatment plan as needed

 

Perfectionism

Perfectionism in school is a specific type of perfectionism that relates to an individual's academic performance and achievement. Students who are perfectionists in school may set extremely high academic standards for themselves, and engage in rigorous study habits and self-discipline in pursuit of these goals. They may also experience a great deal of stress, anxiety, and self-doubt when they fall short of their expectations or encounter academic challenges.

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Coaching can help by:

• Assessing the impact of perfectionism on a student's mental health and well-being

• Providing education and support to understand the harmful effects of perfectionism

• Developing a plan that addresses underlying causes, such as anxiety and low self-esteem

• Teaching coping skills and strategies for managing stress and anxiety

• Encouraging the development of a growth mindset

• Helping students learn to set realistic and attainable goals

• Encouraging self-compassion and positive self-talk

• Addressing any unhelpful thinking patterns or negative self-perceptions

• Supporting students in developing a balanced and healthy approach to achievement

• Monitoring progress and modifying the plan as needed

 

Test/Performance Anxiety

​Testing or performance anxiety refers to the experience of extreme stress, worry, or nervousness that individuals may feel when they are expected to perform well in a high-pressure situation, such as taking an important exam, giving a public speech or presentation, or performing in musical/athletic event. This anxiety can interfere with an individual's ability to perform at their best, and may even lead to a decline in their performance.

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Coaching can help by:

• Assessing current level of test/performance anxiety, including triggers, physical symptoms, and thought patterns

• Setting specific and realistic goals for reducing test/performance anxiety

• Teaching and practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation, to calm the mind and body before a test or performance

• Working with the individual to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, and replace them with more positive and realistic thoughts

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Transition to Adulthood

Transitioning to adulthood can be a challenging time because it involves significant changes and new responsibilities across various areas of life, including education, career, finances, relationships, health, and identity development. Additionally, the process of transitioning to adulthood can be accompanied by uncertainty, stress, and anxiety as young adults navigate these changes and work to establish their independence and autonomy.

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Coaching can help by:

• Helping young adults understand their strengths and challenges

• Assisting with college and/or career exploration and decision making

• Providing guidance on college applications and financial aid processes

• Supporting young adults in managing stress and adjusting to the demands of adulthood

• Encouraging independent living and problem-solving skills

• Promoting effective time management and study skills

• Offering guidance on managing emotions and mental health during the transition

• Helping college students develop effective coping strategies for homesickness and cultural adjustment

• Encouraging young adults to get involved in hobbies/activities and build a support network

• Assisting students with accessing resources and services on college campuses