5 Ways Working With A Recovery Coach Can Be Helpful

As you work through the challenges of your recovery journey, having a recovery coach can be a big help. A certified recovery coach is a trained professional who offers support, encouragement, and guidance to people recovering from substance use disorder. Here are 5 ways a recovery coach can help you during your recovery.

1. Personalized Support and Guidance

• A Customized Approach: Recovery coaches work with you to create a personalized recovery plan that fits your specific needs and goals. They understand that everyone’s path to recovery is different, and so are their challenges. Coaches provide customized support, adjusting their approach to match your goals and situation. They believe you often know what works best for you and support you in following the path you choose for your recovery.

2. Enhanced Accountability

• Regular Check-Ins: Recovery coaches often set up regular check-ins to keep you connected to reliable support. These check-ins help track your progress and, if you choose, hold you accountable for your goals. They also give you time to celebrate your achievements, talk about any challenges you’re facing, and prepare for upcoming obstacles. You get to decide how often the check-ins happen and how they take place—whether in person, virtually, through phone calls, or even texts. It’s all up to you.

3. Improved Coping Skills and Relapse Prevention

• Relapse Prevention: One role of a recovery coach is to help with relapse prevention. According to a study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 40-60% of people in addiction recovery experience relapse. Because of this, having effective strategies to manage relapse is important. A recovery coach can help you identify triggers and create coping strategies. They work with you to recognize early warning signs of relapse and take steps to stay on track with your sobriety, if that is your goal.
• Stress Management Techniques: Recovery coaches can help you explore different ways to cope with stress. For many people, stress is a trigger and can lead to cravings, so learning how to manage it is important.
• Problem-Solving and Boundary-Setting Skills: Recovery coaches can also help you build problem-solving skills to overcome challenges and reduce the chances of relapse. Setting boundaries is another key part of recovery. Boundaries allow you to define what you will and won’t accept in your life. Learning to set healthy boundaries can empower you to focus on your needs and protect your well-being.

4. Increased Access to Resources

• Connecting with Support Networks: Recovery coaches are familiar with many resources, including local and online support groups, harm reduction programs, treatment options, and other community services that can support your recovery.
• Navigating the System: They can also help you navigate the often complicated healthcare system to access the services and support you need.

5. Reduced Isolation and Increased Social Connection

• Building Relationships: Recovery coaches can help you develop healthy relationships with others in recovery, which can strengthen your support network and “recovery capital” or resources.
• Community Engagement: They can connect you with community activities and volunteer opportunities, helping you feel a sense of belonging and purpose.

Working with a recovery coach can have many benefits and make a positive difference in your journey toward lasting recovery and well-being. If any of these sparked your interest, consider exploring the option of working with a coach for your recovery journey.