Coaching Support in Recovery From Addictions

This case study provides insights into a coaching engagement focused on supporting a client in their recovery journey from substance use disorder (SUD). The primary aim was to help the client build sustainable routines and mindsets that would foster long-term sobriety and personal growth.

Client Profile.  The client, in their mid-30s, worked in the hospitality industry and had recently completed a 30-day residential recovery program for Substance Use Disorder (SUD). They sought coaching support to help sustain their recovery and achieve the critical 90-day sobriety milestone and beyond.

Initial Situation.  Upon entering coaching, the client expressed concerns about maintaining their sobriety and integrating healthy habits into their daily life. They struggled with fears of relapse and were also experiencing dissatisfaction with their work, which had previously been a challenging environment due to its high-stress nature and the prevalence of substance use.

Coaching Objectives.  We contracted for a term of 8 sessions over two months.  The client’s primary objectives were:

- To establish new routines and behaviors that would support their sobriety.

- To develop resilience against the triggers and fears associated with relapse.

- To explore their career dissatisfaction and envision a more fulfilling professional path.

Coaching Methodology and Tools.   To create a grounding and calming atmosphere, each session began with iRest Yoga Nidra meditation. This helped the client enter a reflective state conducive to deeper exploration. Storytelling was used as a tool to help the client envision the person they aspired to become, allowing them to articulate this new version of themselves vividly and with emotional depth. Through storytelling, the client could identify specific habits (such as journaling) and supportive relationships that would aid their journey.

Processes and Interventions.  Several key processes and interventions were implemented:

-  Addressing Fear of Failure : The client’s fear of relapse was a significant barrier. Together, we deconstructed what “failure” meant to them and redefined success. This helped shift their mindset, bolstering their confidence and self-belief.

-  Exploring Career Satisfaction : The client expressed dissatisfaction with their job and a desire for change. Through envisioning exercises, they imagined themselves bringing a new, positive energy to their current role. This helped them see themselves as a transformative force in their workplace. Following this shift, the client began to enjoy their work more and received increased responsibilities, leading to a promotion.

Outcomes and Achievements.  Through coaching, the client:

- Successfully maintained their sobriety and established routines around meditation and journaling.

- Felt more confident and resilient, no longer overwhelmed by the fear of relapse.

- Rediscovered a sense of purpose at work, resulting in a promotion and a new, positive perspective on their role.

- Reported a greater overall sense of well-being and optimism, including looking forward to the upcoming winter season rather than dreading it.

Client Feedback and Reflections.  The client expressed deep gratitude for the additional support provided through coaching, noting that it was invaluable in their recovery journey. They felt empowered to continue their sobriety with healthy routines and a more optimistic outlook on life. They also appreciated the positive changes they were able to bring to their workplace, resulting in enhanced professional relationships and career growth.

Reflections on Coaching Addictions Recovery Clients.  Supporting clients in recovery from addictions presents unique challenges, as it requires maintaining a clear boundary between coaching and counselling. To ensure this distinction, I worked with a coach supervisor who provided guidance on navigating this complex field. This helped me remain within the coaching framework, focusing on the client’s strengths and potential, rather than slipping into a therapeutic or corrective role.