The most common circumstance for caregiver coaching is when a caregiver has been overwhelmed or simply wants to find a better way to handle their loved.
Caregiving coaching is not about probing or digging into the reasons behind the situation or family dynamics. There are plenty of psychologists for that task.
A skilled helper is a person who has had years experience in handling many different facets of living with a loved one who has a mental illness. They have learnt practical ways to tackle some of the most challenging problems that occur with their loved one.
The coaching session begins with looking at the current situation or most pressing issue and finding ways to relieve or overcome the circumstance.
This first stage is about getting to grips with the person’s story. Various approaches can be used to bring out the dynamics. It’s all about finding ways to make changes that can bring about positive outcomes.
In simple terms the skilled helper’s approach covers three stages, which are the story, possibilities and possible actions.
Seeking possibilities helps to provide the caregiver with a range of options to go about improving or changing the situation.
Further down the line, possible actions are suggested that would bring about greater empowerment for the caregiver and the loved one.
All of this means that the caregiver needs to have the will to change otherwise the existing situation will remain.
Change can be challenging for some people and it is important to make the caregiver aware of benefits and rewards of change.
The whole process requires much empathy on both sides, that of the skilled helper coach and the caregiver. All coaching sessions are supportive, caring and strictly private and confidential.
Should you wish to find out more, please email Sue Both at the email address in the image a above.
