Five Ways Working With A Recovery Coach Can Be Helpful
- Wes Arnett
- Mar 20
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Wes Arnett, Author & Category Manager of Recovery Coaching, Recovery.com
Tom O’Connor, Editor & Publisher
What is a Recovery Coach?
As you navigate the challenges of your recovery journey, having a recovery coach can be a significant help. A certified recovery coach is a trained professional who offers support, encouragement, and guidance to people recovering from substance use disorder.
Here are five ways a recovery coach can help you during your recovery.
#1 - Personalized Support and Guidance
A Customized Approach: Recovery coaches work with you to create a personalized recovery plan that fits your specific needs and goals. They understand that everyone’s path to recovery is different, and so are their challenges. Coaches provide customized support, adjusting their approach to match your goals and situation. They believe you often know what works best for you and that they can support you in following the path you choose for your recovery.
#2 - Enhanced Accountability
Regular Check-Ins: Recovery coaches typically schedule regular check-ins to maintain your connection to reliable support. These check-ins help track your progress and, if you choose, hold you accountable for your goals. They also give you time to celebrate your achievements, talk about any challenges you’re facing, and prepare for upcoming obstacles. You get to decide how often the check-ins happen and how they take place—whether in person, virtually, through phone calls, or even texts. It’s all up to you.
"One thing I wish I had was a recovery coach as part of my care team. I had no idea that recovery coaches existed; that there were individuals with lived experiences similar to mine, and they were willing to support me. – Wes
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#3 - Improved Coping Skills and Relapse Prevention
Relapse Prevention: A key role of a recovery coach is to help individuals prevent relapse. According to a study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 40-60% of people in addiction recovery experience relapse. Because of this, effective strategies for managing relapse are essential. A recovery coach can help you identify triggers and create coping strategies. They work with you to recognize early warning signs of relapse and take steps to stay on track with your sobriety if that is your goal.
Stress Management Techniques: Recovery coaches can help you explore various stress-management techniques. For many people, stress is a trigger and can lead to cravings, so learning how to manage it is essential.
Problem-Solving and Boundary-Setting Skills: Recovery coaches can also help you build problem-solving skills to overcome challenges and reduce the chances of relapse. Setting boundaries is another key part of recovery. Boundaries allow you to define what you will and won’t accept in your life. Learning to set healthy boundaries can empower you to focus on your needs and protect your well-being.
#4 - Increased Access to Resources
Connecting with Support Networks: Recovery coaches are familiar with many resources, including local and online support groups, harm reduction programs, treatment options, and other community services that can support your recovery.
Navigating the System: They can also help you navigate the often complicated healthcare system to access the services and support you need.
#5 - Reduced Isolation and Increased Social Connection
Building Relationships: Recovery coaches can help you develop healthy relationships with others in recovery, thereby strengthening your support network and increasing your “recovery capital” or available resources.
Community Engagement: They can connect you with community activities and volunteer opportunities, helping you feel a sense of belonging and purpose.
Working with a recovery coach can offer numerous benefits and make a significant positive difference in your journey toward lasting recovery and overall well-being. If any of these options sparked your interest, consider exploring working with a coach to support your recovery journey.
Wes Arnett earned a BS in Zoology and Chemistry from Humboldt State University and a DVM from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is a WI-certified Peer and Parent Support Specialist and a CCAR Recovery Coach Professional
For more articles by Wes Arnett, please visit https://recovery.com/author/wes-arnett/.
You can also email Wes Arnett at https://www.wesarnett.com/
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