| What is Wellness Coaching? We know that wellness is a conscious, self-directed and evolving process of achieving full potential. This multi-dimensional concept can be challenging to navigate, especially when trying to do so alone.
"A Wellness Coach uses behavior change principles and processes that are evidence-based and appropriate for their client. An alliance is created between the Coach and the individual(s) who, through the benefit of that relationship, seeks lasting, positive lifestyle change." - Dr. Michael Arloski - Wellness Coaching for Lasting Lifestyle Change (2007)
Your Coach will begin by asking you to describe your lifestyle goal(s), making sure they are realistic and attainable. Then they will assist you in planning a strategy for behavior change, as well as directing you to pertinent on and off-campus resources. Most importantly, your Wellness Coach will help you remain accountable to your personal goal(s).
Coaching vs. Counseling
It is important to understand the difference between coaching and counseling, so that you can be sure to get the help and support that you need. A coach will not diagnose or provide treatment for mental health symptoms. Rather, the coach will assume that your emotions are natural for you and they will create an equal partnership to help you discover your own answers. The coach is not the expert on your life - you are!
Your Wellness Vision
Below are some questions that will help determine where you are on the pathway to wellness.
- How does your current lifestyle support your vision for personal wellness?
- What accomplishments or events must occur for you to consider your life satisfying and well-lived?
- What is your spiritual guide or belief system?
- What do you do when you are really stressed or feeling overwhelmed?
- What two steps could you take immediately that would make the greatest difference in your current situation?
How Resilient Are You?
Check out this personal inventory developed for Rice students. Print your results and bring them to your coaching session.
The "New You" Resolution
Are you interested in learning more about how Wellness Coaching works and if it's a good fit for you? Would you like to join a Coaching Group? These 60-minute sessions guide groups of students who want help making and sustaining healthier choices in their lives. The coach will guide students through a goal-setting process, discuss motivation to change, aspects of Positive Psychology, and accountability. Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences with previous behavior change attempts and to discuss personal challenges and victories. To request a New You Resolution session for your group, email wellness@rice.edu or call 713-348-5194.
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