What does a coach do?
 

My role of a coach differs from that of a therapist, dietitian, or any other professional an individual may have on their treatment team. A coach is meant to compliment (not take the place of) any clinical roles.

Unlike therapists who explore underlying issues and why a person’s eating disorder may have developed, a coach works with a client in the here and now helping them accomplish day to day behavior challenges. 

Coaches are trained to do a variety of different things with their clients such as talk sessions, goal setting, meal support, restaurant outings, grocery shopping, and clothing shopping. Coaches can even provide live-in support when someone is going through a transition such as leaving residential treatment.

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One of the most important things a coach offers is text, phone, or email support outside of typical session times. Coaches encourage clients to reach out to them when they are having urges to engage in an eating disorder behavior. They are often the first person a client feels comfortable contacting for support. This service alone shows how integral a coach can be for a client's overall treatment. 

 

Eating Disorder Coaches certified through the Carolyn Costin Institute have gone through rigorous training to prepare them to be a skilled support person for those with an eating disorder. Coaches know how to collaborate and work with a team keeping the client’s best interest in the forefront.

 

Coaching has successfully been utilized in substance use treatment for many years and has been shown to be just as beneficial for eating disorders.