Successful Transition from Treatment to Real Life
Coaching the individual is central to a successful transition from treatment into a stable, meaningful, and fully functional life in recovery. MK Recovery Coaching provides structured, discreet, and results-focused support during this critical transition period. The goal is sustained recovery through structure, accountability, and daily functioning in early sobriety.
High-performance fields such as athletics, performing arts, and executive leadership all rely on coaching to enhance functioning, focus, and outcomes. Recovery coaching applies this same principle to early recovery, supporting individuals during a high-risk and high-opportunity period of change
The Coaching Process
After a 30–90-day stay in a treatment program, many individuals experience difficulty adjusting to life outside of a structured treatment environment. This transition period is often when vulnerability to relapse is highest. A coach may escort a person from treatment onto a plane, en route home. They can stay with them for a few days to orient them to 12-step meetings in their area and the routines that may need to be changed. In other situations, a coach may drive the person home from the treatment center and then establish a schedule to meet and talk. Both parties determine the most effective way to meet, including in-person meetings, phone sessions, video conferencing, or a combined approach.
The first session focuses on understanding what a recovery plan is. The coach discusses the client’s recent treatment history and their immediate needs and goals. From this information, both parties begin to develop the recovery plan. A recovery plan is defined as the way the client will maintain their sobriety going forward. It is written, developed, and refined based on the client’s goals and current level of stability
In conjunction with the recovery plan, a coaching agreement is established outlining expectations, structure, and objectives. The coach also assists the individual in writing a relapse prevention plan, so they can be prepared with a plan on how to handle dealing with a potential slip
Throughout the coaching process, behavioral and strengths assessments are completed to identify communication patterns, coping styles, and areas requiring support. These assessments help clarify relational dynamics and personal strengths. They support improved communication, accountability, and boundary development. When appropriate, clinical assistance may be recommended. Occasionally, these recommendations may be made for family members or key individuals in the client’s support system.
Integrated Recovery Model
Throughout the coaching process, established recovery frameworks—such as the 12-step recovery model, harm reduction principles, recovery management models, cognitive and dialectic behavioral therapy — are integrated with executive coaching strategies. This combined approach supports a higher level of behavioral change, decision-making, and real-world functioning. Clients are guided in applying these models to daily life. The coach will also include stress management, trauma-informed communication training, relationship repair, relapse prevention, and recovery-based decision-making.
Coaching Structure
The coaching structure is individualized. Some clients require short-term 24-7 personal support following treatment discharge, while others benefit from daily calls or scheduled weekly video sessions. The coach can also meet you at your residence or business office for face-to-face meetings. Each coaching structure is tailored to the client’s needs, stability, and goals.
The coaching duration varies based on individual needs. A typical engagement lasts approximately six months, while some clients choose longer-term support based on recovery goals and life circumstances.
Unfortunately, recovery coaching is not covered by any health insurance plans.
If you want to know more about how a recovery coach can help you, schedule a complimentary one-hour discussion with Melissa.
Email her at: KilleenMelissa@Gmail.com
If you are interested in purchasing my new book, click below.
Recovery Coaching
A Guide to Coaching People in Recovery from Addictions
(Third Edition)
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