Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between clinical counseling and coaching?
Clinical counseling is based on clinical theory orientations and on the search for a deeper understanding of our personal challenges and in working in a therapeutic setting that is focused on overcoming those challenges. It can involve a clinical diagnosis and treatment plan.
Coaching is based on a partnership that is focused on clarifying your personal goals and creating an agenda to achieve those goals. It does not involve a clinical diagnosis or treatment plan.
Mental health and physical health coaching is a vibrant area of healthcare. Mental health professionals are knowledgeable and skilled in their practice and incorporate physical health coaching techniques into their range of services.
Optimal health is an integrated lifestyle and mindset process. Mental health and physical health coaching can be a profound and practical way to help clients make meaningful changes to their health and outlook. Xiomara uses a coaching toolbox with key skills such as how to create an organic personal wellness plan, how to build client rapport and give constructive feedback, and how to apply different coaching models effectively.
She picks up the reins of mental health and physical health coaching for her clients and provides wellness diagnostic services, preventative healthcare, customized treatments and Do It Yourself (DIY) healthcare exploration in partnership with her clients.
Who does coaching work best for?
Mental health and physical health coaches are a good fit for clients who are not comfortable in seeing a clinical counselor or psychologist but would like to work with someone who has mental health and physical health training. Coaching is beneficial for individuals who, for one reason or another, are hesitant about getting into clinical counseling or psychotherapy yet are willing to see a coach for support and guidance.
Coaching is useful for individuals who are high achievers and have a strong, personal motivation and who are ready to commit to making the changes necessary in order to achieve their personal goals and success.
Good candidates for coaching are individuals who are deeply invested in taking on personal responsibility for their choices and decisions and who need guidance and support in keeping their attention focused specifically on what their options realistically are. These individuals collaborate with their coach in designing their action steps, evaluating the results as they move along with their program, and in making substantial and meaningful changes in their current life situation.
How is coaching actually done?
The first session with a mental health and physical health coach can be in person, but subsequent sessions are typically conducted by phone or electronically.
Xiomara contracts with individuals for a specific number of weekly scheduled virtual/tele-coaching sessions or face-to-face sessions. She assigns specific, action-oriented tasks, assignments and exercises for the individual to work on and complete in-between the sessions. These items are developed in partnership with her clients and are based directly from their individual needs-and-goals assessment. Clients are accountable for remaining committed to themselves and to the entire process while she supports and guides them through the process.
What are the kinds of problems and issues that can be worked on through coaching?
In general, there are a wide range of issues that can be worked on in coaching. Xiomara focuses mostly on mental health and physical health issues. See the website section on Mental Health and Physical Health Coaching Services for specific details.
Does insurance cover coaching fees and what are the fees?
Coaching is not covered by most insurance plans. XAS works on a sliding scale to help fit your budget if necessary. Otherwise, XAS fees range between $50.00 – $125.00 per hour. Coaching is paid in advance on the first of each month and contracted on a monthly bases. XAS accepts checks, cash, debit or credit cards.