As a mental health nurse and a psychosocial recovery coach, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals on their recovery journeys. One of my clients, Andrew (not his real name), has been working with me for several months now. Our sessions are not just about ticking boxes—they are about creating real, sustainable change in a way that is tailored to his needs and goals.
Setting the Scene: A Flexible, Person-Centered Approach
Our sessions don’t happen in a sterile office with fluorescent lights and a ticking clock. We meet in different locations, depending on what feels right for that day. Sometimes we walk along the beach, letting the rhythm of the waves help us untangle our thoughts. Other times, we meet in a quiet café, where a warm coffee provides comfort as we plan. This flexibility is key—it ensures that Andrew feels in control of his recovery, setting the tone for open and honest discussions.
Care Planning and Goal Setting: A Collaborative Process
One of the first things we worked on together was creating a care plan. This isn’t just a static document; it’s a living plan that evolves as Andrew’s needs and priorities shift. Using tools like the Recovery Star and the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), we broke down his long-term aspirations into manageable steps.
A crucial part of this process was understanding that goals are fluid. Many people see changing goals as a sign of failure—I see it as growth. When Andrew initially set a goal to return to work, he later realized he wasn’t quite ready. Instead of seeing this as a setback, we reframed it as an opportunity to focus on building confidence and social engagement first. The plan adapted to his needs, not the other way around.
Using the Right Tools for Guidance
Each session includes the use of structured recovery tools that help guide our discussions and measure progress:
Recovery Star: Helps us visually track progress in different areas of life, from relationships to self-care.
WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan): A personalized strategy for managing wellness and preventing relapse.
SMART Goals Framework: Ensures that goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
Strengths-Based Approach: Focuses on what Andrew can do, rather than what he struggles with.
By using a combination of these, our sessions remain structured yet adaptable, ensuring we are always working toward meaningful outcomes.
Session Length, Frequency, and the Role of a Qualified Professional
Our sessions typically run for about an hour, though flexibility is key—some days Andrew needs a little more time, and others a little less. We meet weekly, but the frequency adjusts depending on his progress and needs at the time.
Having a qualified professional lead these sessions makes all the difference. As a mental health nurse, I understand how to use these tools effectively, how to navigate complex emotions, and how to ensure that recovery remains a positive journey rather than a daunting task. Knowing when to push, when to listen, and when to step back is a skill developed through years of experience.
Utilising All Available Supports
Recovery doesn’t happen in isolation. A key part of our sessions involves identifying and engaging the right support networks—whether it’s family, friends, or other services. We ensure that Andrew isn’t just relying on our coaching sessions but is building a strong foundation of support in all areas of his life.
Final Thoughts: Recovery is a Journey, Not a Destination
Every session with Andrew reminds me why I do this work. Recovery is not linear, and there’s no single right way to go about it. It’s about creating an approach that respects the individual, adapts to their changing needs, and ultimately empowers them to lead the life they want.
A psychosocial recovery coaching session with a difference is one where the person is truly heard, valued, and supported—not just as a client, but as a person. And at Daffodil Therapy and Care, that’s exactly what we strive for every day.
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