Mental Health Coaches on Social Media: A New Era of Wellness
Instagram and TikTok are go-to social media platforms for mental health advice, some of it dispensed by influencers who call themselves coaches. These individuals often promise clarity, motivation, and healing that leads to a new lifestyle – the one you’ve always chased after. But whether or not they have any formal training, in mental health care or coaching, is another matter.
What’s Wrong with the Trend?
Experts say the mental health coaching trend is relatively new, and that consumers should beware of empty guarantees made by people with few or no credentials aspiring to build a business or social media following. But what influencers aren’t wrong about is the difficulty of accessing mental health help, or even the support of a trained professional with expertise in coping, habit formation, and behavior change.
What’s the Alternative?
Sometimes you don’t need a therapist; you just need a skilled guide who can help you better manage conflict or your sleep habits and hold you accountable.
What’s the Difference Between Coaching and Therapy?
Headspace, a digital mental health company, offers mental health coaching, but only to employees of companies that pay for it. Some companies, like BetterUp, provide career, communications, and life coaching that could improve mental health, but they don’t specify that area of focus.
What Does High-Quality Mental Health Coaching Look Like?
Headspace’s service is a compelling example of what mental health coaching can look like when practiced by trained professionals. For $99 per month, members get three text-based, 30-minute coaching sessions per month. Before a member begins coaching, Headspace screens to identify whether the person might be in crisis or need urgent mental health treatment, in which case coaching on its own may be ineffective.
How Mental Health Coaches Get Credentials
Jennifer Lundman, a licensed clinical social worker and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness coach, doesn’t agree with the mental health coaching trends she sees on social media – specifically when they involve influencers with questionable credentials and aggressive sales pitches.
What’s the Future of Mental Health Coaching?
Wright says there are advantages to working with mental health coaches employed by a well-known digital health company, such as Headspace or Lyra. Coaches are typically trained, if not certified. They also receive supervision and feedback on their performance. The platforms themselves can provide referrals for therapy to members who might need them. Should a coach act inappropriately, their client can report it to the company.
Conclusion
Mental health coaching can be a valuable tool for those seeking support, but it’s essential to be aware of the qualifications and training of the coach. Look for coaches who are certified and trained in mental health coaching, and be cautious of those who make exaggerated claims or promise quick fixes. By being informed and discerning, you can find a coach who can help you achieve your goals and improve your mental well-being.
FAQs
Q: What is mental health coaching?
A: Mental health coaching is a form of coaching that focuses on helping individuals develop strategies and skills to improve their mental well-being and overall health.
Q: Is mental health coaching the same as therapy?
A: No, mental health coaching is not the same as therapy. While both involve working with a professional to address mental health concerns, therapy typically involves a more in-depth, long-term process with a licensed mental health professional, whereas coaching is a more goal-oriented, solution-focused process.
Q: How do I find a qualified mental health coach?
A: Look for coaches who are certified and trained in mental health coaching, and check for any relevant credentials or certifications. You can also research online and read reviews to find a coach who has a good reputation and experience working with individuals with similar concerns or goals.
Q: How much does mental health coaching cost?
A: The cost of mental health coaching varies depending on the coach, the type of coaching, and the length of the coaching process. Some coaches may offer package deals or sliding scale fees, while others may charge by the hour or session. It’s essential to discuss pricing and fees with your coach upfront to ensure you understand the costs involved.
