What is Caregiver Coaching?

Many caregivers are in the unique position of going through what appears to be a “normal” life and suddenly finding themselves taking care of a loved one because of accidents, disease, or simply age. Because of this, many do not have the tools to deal with the new experiences they must endure.

A "new normal" must be created in their lives. Living with the restrictions placed upon the loved one, changes in personality, or changes in physical or mental capabilities causes relationships to change. What once was an adult to adult relationship will at times become a parent to child relationship because of the limitations placed on the ill or disabled.

We will create this "new normal"  to reduce stress, improve your relationships, achieve balance, or overcome other challenges.

Your Caregiver Coach will provide an outside perspective, unconditional encouragement, and a safe, judgment-free environment for you to experiment with new ways of thinking, being, and acting in order for you to create your "new normal.".

Caregiver Coaching is neither counseling nor therapy. While there are some similar characteristics, e. g., one-on-one dialog, ongoing support, and strict confidentiality, the differences are critical.

Therapists work with clients that need professional help to work towards healing, recovery, and issue resolution often delving into the client's past to determine cause.

Caregiver Coaches work with clients who want a detached partner to help them evolve and enhance their lives, concentrating more on what can be done today to achieve goals and desires.

Therapists are experts in medical and/or behavioral sciences trained to treat diagnosable conditions using resources like the Diagnostic and Statistics Manual (DSM).

Caregiver Coaches see their client's brilliance strengths, and areas in need of development and are trained to support the client as they achieve a certain desired outcome.

Therapists are required to keep their personal experiences, feelings, and thoughts removed from the relationship with the client.

Caregiver Coaches use personal disclosure as a tool to motivate and challenge their clients.

You, the client, bring to the process your specific topic or challenge area, the "agenda." Everything in this relationship is about you: your ideas, your victories, your challenges, your commitment to positive change, your authentic self.

  Your Coach listens to your words, vocal inflection, energy level, thoughts, emotions, and actions. He hears what you say and what you don't say. As he listens, he asks direct and thought provoking questions designed to help you listen to yourself more closely and discover the truths you already know about yourself and your life.

  His job is not necessarily to give advice or solve your problems. Instead, he helps you uncover your own wisdom, cultivate your authentic self, and identify concrete ways to meet your goals. He also support you by holding you gently accountable to your commitment of the actions steps.

Coaching is done primarily over the telephone with email support. This gives you the advantage meeting in the convenience of your home, office, or wherever you happen to find yourself.

That is not a problem. Although the focus is on Caregiver Coaching, Donald is a Certified Life Coach and is able to coach you on other topics or issues that may arise.

Of course! You may call between session times if you need coaching on an issue, or can't wait to talk about something great. Donald does have time between your regular sessions to speak with you, if needed, and enjoys providing this extra level of service. You are not billed for this additional time, but you are asked that you keep any extra calls brief (e.g. 5 minutes). If it appears like it will be better served as session material, that will be suggested to you.

E-coach: Feel free to e-mail Donald during the week to a) share a win, b) clarify a point, c) have him review something, or request coaching on a particular issue. It's up to you how much you use him this way.

Your information will be held in the utmost confidence. It will not be sold, given, transferred, or used in any way without your express permission.

Yes. You will receive one free session for every client you refer to Donald who signs up and pays for at least one month of coaching.

Contact Donald for an appointment to explore your needs and find out if Caregiver Coaching is right for you.

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