As a recovery coach, I play many roles in the coach/coachee relationship. Of those roles, the most important is as a listener. Listening is the single most important skill a coach can have. Come to think of it, listening is a really important skill for anyone to have. I don’t have all the answers, but I listen with empathy and without bias and provide feedback and encouragement for the client to find the answers on their own.
As I have been on the recovery path myself, I am a fellow journeyer, a mentor, consultant and a mirror for my clients. I can be an example of the benefits of recovery, and offer realistic support in times of challenge.