As a parent or guardian, you want your teen to succeed in life. But adolescence can be challenging, and sometimes you might feel like you’re not equipped to help them navigate it all. Maybe you feel like the advice you’re giving them is going in one ear and out of the other. However, if someone else tells them the same thing, they listen to that person. Confusing, right?
This is where a life coach comes in. A life coach can provide your teen with the guidance they need to thrive. But with so many life coaches out there, how do you choose the right one? In this article, we’ll provide you with an ultimate checklist for choosing the right life coach for your teen. From qualifications to experience to personality, we’ll cover all the important factors to consider when selecting a life coach.
Why do teens need a life coach?
It’s no mystery that adolescence can be a tumultuous time for many teens. They may face a variety of challenges, like academic pressure, burnout, social anxiety, sleep, self-doubt, perfectionism, social media, and sports. We’ve all been there, but just like the generations before us, times are different. Teens today are going through some of the same struggles that you did but in very different ways.
A life coach can help them navigate these challenges and develop the skills they need to succeed. For example, a life can guide your teen to identify their strengths and weaknesses, set goals, and develop a plan to achieve those goals. They can also provide your teen with the support and encouragement they need to stay motivated and focused. With a life coach by their side, your teen can develop the confidence and resilience they need to thrive.
How to choose the right life coach for your teen
Choosing the right life coach for your teen can be a daunting task. With so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a life coach for your teen.
Qualifications and experience of a life coach
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a life coach for your teen is their qualifications and experience. You want to make sure that the coach you choose has the training and experience necessary to provide your teen with quality guidance. Look for coaches who have completed a reputable coaching program and have received certification from a recognized coaching organization. You should also consider the coach’s experience working with teens. A coach who has experience working with adolescents will be better equipped to understand the unique challenges your teen may face.
Coaching style and personality
Another important factor to consider when choosing a life coach for your teen is their coaching style and personality. Every coach has a different approach to coaching, and it’s important to find one whose style resonates with your teen. Some coaches may be more directive, while others may be more collaborative. Some coaches may be more focused on the present, while others may be more future-oriented. You should also consider the coach’s personality. Your teen will be spending a lot of time with their coach, so it’s important that they feel comfortable with them.
- Ask the coach if they offer a discovery session to give your teen a chance to see if they connect with and feel comfortable with them before you commit to a program.
- Make sure you understand the difference between a coach and a therapist or other licensed mental health professional. A coach should not offer medical services or claim to solve such areas as trauma, which requires a higher level of care. Coaching should complement professional medical help, but not replace it.
- Get to know your coach’s why for what they are doing. This will help you understand if they are coaching for a paycheck or for passion. For example, perhaps they have a personal story that helps them connect with and understand teens.
- Ask them about their values and what they hope to share with your teen.
Availability and communication
You should also consider the coach’s availability and communication style. Make sure that the coach you choose is available to meet with your teen on a regular basis. You should also consider how the coach communicates with your teen. Some coaches may prefer to meet in person, while others may be comfortable with phone or video coaching. You should also consider how the coach communicates with you as the parent or guardian. A good coach will keep you informed of your teen’s progress and will be open to answering any questions or concerns you may have.
- Make sure you understand the coach’s confidentiality policy. A coach should maintain a safe and confidential space for your teen in order to develop a trusting rapport. However, should an emergency or exceptional situation arise, the parent or guardian should be notified.
Success stories and testimonials
When choosing a life coach for your teen, it’s important to look for success stories and testimonials from other clients. A good coach will have a track record of helping their clients achieve their goals. Look for coaches who have helped other teens overcome similar challenges to those your teen is facing. You should also look for testimonials from parents or guardians who have worked with the coach. These testimonials can provide valuable insight into the coach’s approach and effectiveness.
Pricing and packages
Finally, you should consider the coach’s pricing and packages. Coaching is an investment, and it’s important to find a coach whose services fit your budget, but one who also meets all of the aforementioned qualifications. You should also consider the coach’s packages. Some coaches may offer a set number of sessions, while others may offer ongoing coaching. Make sure you understand the coach’s pricing and packages before committing to their services.
Red flags to watch out for
While there are many excellent life coaches out there, there are also some red flags to watch out for. Here are some warning signs that a coach may not be the right fit for your teen:
- The coach doesn’t have any qualifications or certifications.
- The coach is not experienced in working with teens.
- The coach doesn’t have any success stories or testimonials.
- The coach doesn’t communicate well with your teen or with you.
- The coach’s pricing and deliverables are unclear.
- The coach does not have a clear confidentiality policy.
- You and/or your teen do not feel completely comfortable with the coach.
Checklist to choose the right life coach for your teen
To help you choose the right life coach for your teen, we’ve created a checklist of questions to ask when evaluating potential coaches. Use this checklist to help you find a coach who is the right fit for your teen.
- What are your qualifications and certifications?
- How much experience do you have working with teens?
- What is your coaching style?
- In what ways is coaching teens your passion?
- How often will you meet with my teen?
- How are coaching sessions conducted (i.e., in person, virtual, over the phone, etc.)?
- Can you provide me with success stories and testimonials from other clients?
- What are your pricing and packages?
- How will you keep me informed of my teen’s progress?
Choosing the right life coach for your teen can be a challenging task. But by considering factors like qualifications, coaching style, and communication, you can find a coach who can help your teen thrive. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. With the right coach by their side, your teen can develop the skills they need to succeed in life.