Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching
with Maureen O'Brien
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is coaching?
Coaching is all about behavior change and goal setting. It is tailored to the individual and the format of sessions is really dependent on whatever your given needs are. My job is to help you accomplish day to day behavior goals. Anything you feel you are struggling with that is hindering your ability to recover (e.g. restricting, binging, purging, over exercising,
etc.), I am the everyday support person you can turn to for help.
What can a coach do for me?
A coach can help you with the “how” of recovery. While you might know that you want to make changes when it comes to your behaviors and relationship with food, you might not know exactly how to implement those changes. That’s where I come in. Through assignments, meal sessions, discussion, texting, phone support and more, I serve to direct you in the moment to make choices that are in alignment with recovery. I will work with you to help identify your goals as well as the barriers that prevent you from reaching them. From there, we will work together as a team to help strengthen your “healthy self” and put your “eating disorder self” out of a job.
How is coaching different from therapy?
A coach serves as an adjunct to your existing treatment team and is not a substitute for the therapeutic process or any other psychological services. A therapist can diagnose and treat your eating disorder. They can help you understand why your disorder or any other co-occurring issues (like anxiety or depression) may have developed. They are trained to delve into your past and help you identify maladaptive patterns and thoughts. Your therapist would be in charge of ongoing assessment and carrying out your overall treatment plan. A coach focuses on the here and now, helping you to tackle daily behavior challenges, eating disorder thoughts and various obstacles in the moment. The easiest way to remember the difference between coaching and therapy is to remember that coaches are trained to focus on how while therapists are able to focus on why.
Are there any requirements to work with you?
The minimum requirement necessary to work with me is that you already have - or will seek out - either a therapist or dietitian for treatment.* You must also be willing to sign a release to allow me to speak with these providers. Releases are for your benefit. They allow your treatment team members and I to be on the same page so that we can all work together to give you the best care possible.
* When appropriate, an exception can be made.
What kind of commitment do I need to make?
All that I ask from you is that you try your best and take your recovery as seriously as I do. This doesn't mean you have to be "perfect," it just means that you won't give up trying. I've been there and I know that recovery can be hard. I understand that setbacks are inevitable. Recovery is not a linear process; it takes time, patience and commitment.
How much do sessions cost?*
Prepaid Package: $280 for Four session package at $70 per session - Valid for 30 days - (Includes four sessions at 50 mins each, eight 25 min sessions OR some mix of the two depending on what your needs and preferences are)
Individual Sessions: $75 per 50 minute session (can be split into two 25 min sessions)
All pricing includes:
- Weekly phone & text support in between sessions
- Assignments, written exercises, resources and material
- Collaboration with other treatment providers
*COVID-19 DISCLAIMER: I understand the financial hardship that COVID-19 has put on many of us. With this in mind, if you or your family have been financially impacted by COVID-19, I am happy to discuss alternative payment plans.
What if I can’t afford it?
I understand that recovery services are expensive. Depending on your individual circumstances, I am willing to discuss alternative financial plans and pricing. When and if financial concerns arise, we will discuss them and come up with a solution together.
What if coaching ends up not being a good fit for me?
Throughout our work together, we will continually assess your progress. We will discuss your goals and any obstacles you are facing in an open and non-judgmental manner. If a higher level or different type of care is needed or wanted, I will do my best to help point you in the right direction.