Youth Coaching Expert Insights

As adolescent well-being coaches, we witness firsthand the profound challenges young people face during major life transitions—starting high school, heading to college, entering the workforce, or stepping into independent adulthood. These pivotal moments aren’t just logistical shifts; they’re “identity earthquakes” that shake the very foundation of who our clients believe themselves to be. The good news? Recent research spanning 2021-2026 has identified five evidence-based protective factors that consistently buffer young

An Evidence-Based, ICF-Aligned Framework At the Youth Coaching Institute, we prepare coaches to support young people using an evidence-based, developmentally responsive coaching approach. Our Youth Coaching Competencies are adapted from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) Core Competencies and integrated with our theory, model, and coaching approach. This framework reflects our commitment to: Ethical, professional coaching Youth development and well-being science Clear scope of practice Coaching that builds agency, resilience, and

As an educator or youth-serving professional, your days are likely a balancing act. You are constantly toggling between grading papers, managing crises, planning lessons, and, most importantly, trying to connect with the young people in your care. You know that coaching is a powerful tool to foster resilience and potential in youth, but you might wonder how to fit it into a fifteen-minute recess break or a brief after-school check-in.

Substance use and addiction are complex issues that affect millions of people, particularly young adults whose brains are still developing. Understanding the nuances between substance use, misuse, and addiction is the first step toward providing effective support and fostering recovery. This post will clarify these key definitions, explore the science behind addiction, and outline evidence-based strategies to support those on their recovery journey. By gaining a deeper insight into this