Coaching can be great for teens, especially if a parent or teacher is involved and supportive of the process.

Our coaches are licensed professional counselors.

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions. If you would like more information about the coaching process, please contact one of our coaches by phone (615-279-6790) or email (coaching4teens@centerstone.org).

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1. If the people doing the coaching are therapists, how is it different?
• Coaching is not therapy; it's about personal growth and equipping teens with tools to have more successful life events (healthier lifestyle, less stress, better organization, stronger self-esteem, etc.). Different techniques are used in coaching -- techniques which use the teen as their own expert. Coaches help teens focus on their futures by allowing them to set their own personal goals. The coach then encourages the teen to consider the obstacles in attaining their goals and holds the teen accountable for meeting their expectations.
• 2. What if my teen discloses inappropriate or illegal behavior?
• The coach will encourage the teen to tell a supportive adult they trust. The teen may also give permission for the coach to talk to the adult. However, there are limits to confidentiality. Our coaches will maintain the same level of confidentiality as therapists do. If the teen discloses suicidal or homicidal behavior or thoughts, or information that someone is hurting/has hurt the teen (abuse), the coach will be required to report it to the appropriate authority (police, child protective services).
• 3. What if my teen brings up more serious behavior (drug and alcohol use, sexual behavior, or other emotional issues)?
• If the coach feels that these issues are impacting the teen's ability to make good decisions, the coach will talk with the teen about the need to make a referral to an appropriate professional. The teen can still work with the coach on goals as it relates to the teen's future.
• 4. How can I help?
• Encourage your teen to use coaching services if you feel the stress of daily life is impacting their academic or social abilities. Talk to your teen about the importance of setting limits about the number of activities in which they participate. Listen to your teen if they are telling you they are overwhelmed, and let them know it's okay not to be perfect.
  If your teen is participating in coaching, allow the coaching process to work. Trust the coaches and the process they will use to work with your teen. And know, that if in the coaching session, your teen discloses a concerning behavior, the coach will work with the teen to involve the parent or another trusted adult for support.