When a student fails a test, the way they explain that failure matters more than the grade itself. If they think “I’m just not smart enough,” they’re likely to disengage and avoid future challenges. But if they think “I should have asked for help” or “I need a better study strategy,” they’re positioned to learn, […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
As an educator or academic coach, you know that some students need more than just academic instruction; they need guidance on how to learn. But when you only have 30 minutes—or even less—for a coaching session limited to one or two encounters, how can you make a lasting impact? Brief academic coaching has emerged as […]
Preparing for exams can feel overwhelming for students, and as academic coaches, parents, or teachers, you play a vital role in guiding teens and young adults toward success. Understanding how the brain learns—and applying evidence-based strategies—can transform study habits and improve outcomes. This article explores the science behind learning and offers practical, research-backed techniques you […]
When working with adolescents and young adults, every parent, educator, or coach faces a critical moment: a student struggles with a challenge, and you want to help. Your instinct might be to jump in with solutions, take over the task, or rescue them from difficulty. While these impulses come from genuine care, they can actually […]
Expressing our emotions is essential for our health and well-being. When we feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or unheard, the instinct to vent can be powerful. While it might offer a moment of relief, relying on venting as a primary coping mechanism can reinforce negative emotions and prevent us from addressing the root of the problem. This […]
As a career coach, you know that the journey to a fulfilling career is more than just matching skills to job descriptions. It’s about tapping into the deeper “whys” that drive a person forward. To help our clients succeed at challenging goals, we must first help them develop and envision a desired future. Identifying what […]
