Finding the Right Recovery Coach

Jul 14, 2022

A new chapter in life begins once substance addiction treatment ends. Or at least, the thought is that treatment stops once you complete a program. People will go back to their living and work environment after treatment concludes. Yet, going back to these environments can pose issues. Before you leave an alcohol or drug addiction treatment program, an aftercare plan is created to help you cope with potential obstacles that may arise. Sometimes, a treatment plan isn’t enough, though. The decision to hire a recovery coach or sober coach can give you the extra support you need.

The First 90 Days

The first three months, 90 days after you end substance addiction treatment, are complex. Going back to the places and people from your pre-treatment days can bring up unresolved issues. You can attend 12-Step meetings and remain active with your treatment center’s alumni group. However, sometimes a little extra help is needed. Hiring a recovery coach is an option you can discuss with your therapist. 

Comprehensive alcohol or drug addiction treatment addresses the whole person. Your therapist will guide you as you learn healthy behaviors and coping skills. As you immerse yourself in the center’s services, you can begin to feel strong and healthy. When you re-enter your world, you can feel invincible. There are a few things that can happen, two of which are: 

  • The daily realities can tarnish your after-treatment feelings. Coming back to your pre-treatment life is challenging. The problems, conflicts, or broken relationships still exist. Maybe you need financial assistance or employment. The realities of life can increase anxiety or stress.
  • You carry those feelings of joy and commitment to sobriety with you after you leave treatment. Pink cloud syndrome can make you feel intense and persistent in your commitment to sobriety. Unfortunately, it doesn’t last. Feelings of joy and strength brought on by the pink cloud will eventually dissolve because sobriety is work. Things like attending meetings, coping with situations, and daily routines are all considered work. Furthermore, your habits and obligations can create boredom. 

Recovery Coaches

Many recovery coaches are people who are in recovery. They understand where you’re at and can provide valuable resources. 

Recovery coaches help you navigate the world while working on your sobriety. They provide a one-on-one experience that you can’t get with meetings or groups. Because groups are scheduled in allotted times, they aren’t available whenever you need one, especially if you don’t live in a large city. Another method of support is finding a sponsor. A sponsor is a great way to boost your commitment to your sobriety. Yet, sponsors aren’t available 24/7. They aren’t always there to help you throughout the day or night. Recovery coaches are always available.

The Role of a Recovery Coach

A recovery coach is a companion who helps you if you need continued support or attention after you complete a treatment program. For example, your coach can help you find a job, become financially responsible, or be with you if you need someone. Your recovery coach will do what they can to clear away obstacles and boost your self-confidence. In addition, you can work with them to find healthy ways to replace damaging behaviors. 

Substance addiction treatment guides you to understand the root causes of harmful behaviors. You can learn valuable coping skills, but sometimes you need other viable options once you return to your environment. Recovery coaches employ different approaches to help you find your way through the day and remain sober. Your recovery benefits as you become aware of your behaviors and healthy ways to address situations. Some of the ways a recovery coach can aid you include:

  • Educating you on how to perform daily tasks
  • Acting as an advocate for you, whether you’re in or out of the program
  • Guiding you to resources for necessities
  • Planning and carrying out an intervention if you might or have relapsed

What a Recovery Coach Isn’t

Most recovery coaches aren’t psychiatrists, counselors, or therapists. As previously mentioned, many are in recovery themselves. However, there are certification courses. If you have a recovery coach and express feelings like depression or anxiety, they will refer you to a therapist.

Since recovery coaches aren’t professionally trained, you must retain the services of your therapist. Your therapist can work with your recovery coach to find practical alternatives to harmful behaviors. 

Finding Your Recovery Coach

You can ask for a referral, whether you’re leaving a substance addiction treatment program or are already back in your environment. Finding the proper recovery coach is like finding the right therapist. Take your time, and don’t be afraid to let them know if the relationship isn’t working. Since you will be in close contact with your recovery coach, think about what type of person is the best fit for your personality and needs.

Evaluate how much time or the exact requirements you need to make a recovery coach-client relationship successful. Remember that the relationship is more of a companion-client connection than a therapist-client relationship. Therefore, you can expect to spend long periods together. 

Recovery coaching is an intense peer-to-peer recovery relationship. A coach can guide you through situations like finding a job or healing relationships. They bring unique insight to your daily routine and behaviors. Because they’re following their recovery path, they have insight into the obstacles you face. They can support you and help you when you need a boost. With them, your therapist can continue to work with you to maintain your sobriety. Additionally, you can create a comprehensive aftercare support system by remaining connected to alumni from your treatment center. Renaissance Ranch Treatment Centers recognizes and helps you build a healthy, self-esteem-boosting aftercare treatment. If you need to continue therapy, join our alumni group – we’re here for you. Your needs are our priority. Your questions about our services, including peer support and sober living, are welcome. Call us today at (801) 308-8898.