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TEEN COACH In many ways, coaching teens is the same as coaching adults, but there are some important differences. Whilst as coaches, we listen to all our clients, with teens it is even more important to really listen to what's underneath the words they are saying. Too often, as adults, we are quick to tell young people what they should think or do without affording them the opportunity to fully express themselves. Before accepting a teen as a client, I like parents to understand that my role as a coach is in no way to undermine their authority or the values they hold with their teen. Most teens I work with tend to place a great deal of pressure upon themselves to fulfill either their own expectations or those of others, perceived or real. Teenagers rarely accept that they are still kids and as such thrive in a coaching environment where they are encouraged to make informed decisions, participate in discussions about and take responsibility for their own lives. I always make it clear from the start that what we discuss is completely confidential - UNLESS I am concerned for their safety or that of someone else. I personally would have loved someone to listen to me, support me, and guide me through my teenage years. Of course our parents and teachers would love to fulfil this need but which of us as a teen would ever have believed this? |