In this comprehensive article, we will outline psychosocial recovery coaching, describe the different approaches, examine the approach we use in detail, explain how it works under the NDIS and link you to further reading. It is quite long, and if you would like a shorter and easier article, we have one on our blog here.
Heartfelt Support is a provider of psychosocial recovery coaching in Adelaide.
What is it?
Psychosocial recovery coaching is a type of assistance that aids people getting better from substance abuse or mental health problems in achieving their goals and enhancing their general wellbeing. It is a collaborative process in which the recovery coach works with the individual to identify their strengths, needs, and challenges, and helps them develop a plan for achieving their goals.
History
Psychosocial recovery coaching is a relatively new field that has developed within the broader field of recovery support services for individuals experiencing mental health conditions and/or substance use. With early roots in the 19th century with the development of moral treatment for those with mental illness, the idea of recovery for mental health and substance use is not just a sudden, modern concept, but something that has evolved. The self-help and advocacy movements contributed significantly to the growth of the recovery movement in the latter half of the 20th century.
This has grown over time to include a comprehensive and individualised strategy which emphasises the significance of individual autonomy, self-direction, and choice in the healing process.
The specific intervention of “recovery coaching” has only recently come into existence, and it is rightly viewed as an extension of the peer support model, in which people who have personally dealt with addiction or mental health issues offer advice and support to those who are recovering from those issues. Recovery coaches work with people to help them identify and work toward their recovery goals as well as to offer support and direction as they confront the difficulties of recovery.
Despite being relatively new, recovery coaching is rapidly becoming incorporated into treatment and recovery support systems all over the world as a valuable part of the recovery support network.
Benefits
One of the main advantages of psychosocial recovery coaching is that it is customised to the needs and objectives of the individual. Recovery coaching places more of an emphasis on the present and future than more conventional forms of therapy, which frequently concentrate on the patient’s past experiences and problems.
It supports the development of new skills and approaches for overcoming obstacles and achieving goals, as well as assisting people in recognizing their strengths and building on them.
The goal- and action-oriented nature of psychosocial recovery coaching is another advantage. It assists people in establishing and pursuing clear, attainable goals, such as enhancing their mental health, locating employment, or fostering better relationships. Recovery coaches can aid people in moving forward and achieving a sense of accomplishment and self-worth by helping them to concentrate on these objectives and the steps required to achieve them.
A sense of accountability and support are two more advantages of psychosocial recovery coaching. The recovery coach serves as a mentor and guide, assisting the person in staying on track and motivated. Additionally, they can instil a sense of accountability, which supports the individual in maintaining commitment and focus on their objectives.
The precise approach used will depend on the needs and objectives of the individual. Psychosocial recovery coaching can take a number of different forms. Cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based methods are a few popular approaches.
In cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), the relationship between a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviours is the main area of focus. It supports the development of new, more constructive ways of thinking and behaving by assisting people in recognizing and challenging negative or unhelpful thoughts. Those recovering from mental health conditions like anxiety or depression may find CBT to be especially beneficial.
People who are unsure or unconvinced about making changes in their lives can explore and overcome this ambivalence with the aid of the therapy technique known as motivational interviewing. It is based on the idea that when people are motivated and feel empowered to make changes, they are more likely to do so. For people who might be resistant to change or who might have trouble sticking to their goals, motivational interviewing can be helpful.
Strengths-based strategies concentrate on a person’s assets and strengths rather than their flaws or issues. This strategy aids people in enhancing their current abilities and strengths while also helping them to acquire new ones. People who may have faced difficulties or setbacks in the past and may feel defeated or discouraged may find it especially helpful.
Why we favour the strength-based approach
A strengths-based approach to working with people places more emphasis on their resources, skills, and abilities than their flaws or issues. Because it encourages people to build on their strengths and develop a sense of hope, resilience, and self-determination, this strategy is particularly beneficial for psychosocial recovery coaching.
A strengths-based strategy promotes a positive and hopeful outlook, which is one of its most significant benefits. When people can concentrate on their strengths and capabilities, they are more likely to feel optimistic about their ability to make positive changes in their lives. For those who are enduring trying circumstances or are having a hard time letting go of unfavourable thoughts and feelings, this is crucial.
This can help individuals shift their focus from their problems to their potential by assisting them in identifying and building on their strengths, which can be a powerful motivator for change.
A strengths-based approach can also aid in the development of resilience and self-esteem. Individuals are more likely to feel confident and capable when they can see and recognise their own strengths. This, in turn, can help them cope better with the difficulties and setbacks that may arise during the recovery process. Recovery coaches can help individuals build their sense of self-worth and self-esteem by assisting them in identifying and building on their strengths, which can be an important factor in their overall well-being.
Another advantage of using a strengths-based approach is that it fosters a sense of control over one’s own life. Individuals are more likely to feel empowered and capable of making positive changes in their lives when they can identify and build on their strengths. This is especially important for people who have previously felt disempowered or powerless. Recovery coaches can help individuals increase their motivation and commitment to the recovery process by assisting them in developing a sense of agency
A strengths-based strategy may also be more motivating and engaging for people. When recovery coaches highlight their clients’ talents and skills, it can be more interesting and empowering for them. They may become more motivated and dedicated to the healing process as a result. By emphasizing strengths, recovery coaches can assist in fostering a more upbeat and encouraging environment that is conducive to recovery.
Who are the coaches?
There are two main categories of practitioner for psychosocial recovery coaching.
It can be performed by trained therapists, usually psychologists, or by people with lived experience, that is people who have recovered from a mental health and/or substance abuse issue.
Either category have proven to be effective over time in many cases.
How it works under the NDIS
Psychosocial recovery coaching is classified as “capacity building” support under Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). This indicates that it is not intended to offer direct care or assistance, but rather to assist people in developing their skills and abilities. The NDIS offers eligible participants funding for capacity building supports, and these participants can use this funding to access the kinds of supports they need to achieve their goals.
Conclusion
Overall, psychosocial recovery coaching is a supportive and empowering process that can help individuals recovering from mental health issues or substance abuse to achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being. It is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and goals, and helps them to develop new skills and strategies for overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Further reading
If you want to take a deep dive into this field, here are a couple of places you might like to start.
Life coaching for mental health recovery: the emerging practice of recovery coaching
R Bora, S Leaning, A Moores… – Advances in psychiatric …, 2010 – cambridge.org
Manual for recovery coaching and personal recovery plan development
D Loveland, M Boyle – 2005 – chess.wisc.edu