Behavioral Coaching
Let’s talk about coaching and why it’s a core element of the Anise care model.
What is behavioral coaching?
Behavioral coaching, also referred to as health and wellness coaching, is an evidence-based, patient-centered practice that focuses on sustainable behavioral change by leveraging clients’ internal strengths and external resources
(Wolever et al., 2013).
Coaching is a powerful tool for self-discovery and has been shown to increase an individual’s capacity to activate change through goal-setting, accountability, and structure. By integrating behavioral coaching with culturally-responsive therapy, Anise provides a holistic and effective model of support for the Asian community that helps clients improve their self-confidence, relationships, work-life balance, and communication skills.
Why is coaching effective for the Asian community?
One of the many reasons that Asian clients prematurely drop out of therapy is due to the norm of emotional restraint. Verbalizing feelings can feel foreign and this serves as a barrier in therapy, particularly when applying standard Western models, which assume patients’ comfort with self-disclosure and expression of emotions.
In fact, evidence suggests that Asian clients find providers who are more directive and implement SMART (specific, measurable, actionable, realistic, and time-bound) goals to be more effective (Kim et al., 2004; Moore et al., 2015; Lee & Mock, 2005). This, along with its seamless fit within evidence-based frameworks of therapy, is why we have made behavioral coaching a key element of our culturally-responsive, holistic care model.
“[My coach] is such a warm and uplifting person. I was grateful to have her on my team as a thought-partner and cheerleader. I appreciated [my coach’s] energy, sense of humor and practical tools/tips along the way to reaching my goals. Thanks for all that you do in this world!”
- Anise Client
What’s the difference between therapy & behavioral coaching?
Therapist (to be selected by you)
EXPLORATION
SELF-DISCOVERY
COPING STRATEGIES
Addresses cognitive, psychological, and emotional needs, exploring life patterns, experience, and underlying issues.
Designs a treatment plan to advance toward your goals, overcome obstacles and gain insights into yourself, including cultural influences.
Provides new strategies for processing experiences and improving self understanding.
Coach (to be assigned by Anise)
ACTIONABLE
FUTURE-ORIENTED
GOAL-CENTRIC
Is aware of the treatment plan and supports you in making progress towards the theraoy goals.
Helps create a personalized wellness vision and concrete action plans, fostering personal growth and well-being.
Offers accountability, practical steps and solutions to any obstacles with a specific emphasis on the present moment and the week ahead.
Is there any evidence to support behavioral coaching?
There are several peer-reviewed bodies of evidence citing the effectiveness of behavioral coaching for mental health care,
especially when integrated with psychotherapy.
Behavioral Activation for Depression
A meta analysis of randomized studies (n=780) on behavioral activation and depression found a large effect size, indicating behavioral coaching as a highly effective form of treatment.
Behavioral Activation Strategies in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
A literature review revealing that integrated behavioral activation reinforces approach behaviors, which reduces behaviors seen in anxiety disorders and should be implemented when treating anxiety.
Mindfulness + Behavioral Activation for Depression
A randomized controlled trial (n=50) demonstrating that Mindfulness-Based Therapy and Behavioral Activation effectively reduce symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder in college students.
Behavioral Activation for Substance Use
Behavioral activation treatment increased rates of abstinence and decreased depressive symptoms a year post treatment in individuals being treated for substance use (n=263).
Behavioral Activation for Schizophrenia
A randomized single-blind controlled trial (n=70) showcasing negative symptoms significantly decreased in patients with schizophrenia after 10 sessions of behavioral activation.
“Utilizing a clinician and a certified behavioral coach is really harmonious and helps meet a lot of Asian clients needs. I’ve heard great feedback from Anise coaches I work with that the relationships they are forming with clients go beyond clinical needs. Behavioral coaching helps de-stigmatize the process and makes it easier to engage and stay on track with clients’ goals.”
- Manju P., Ph.D (Anise Provider)
How do we integrate behavioral coaching with therapy at Anise?
We believe in an integrated approach because addressing mental health needs involves not only healing emotional wounds, but also equipping you with the tools and strategies to navigate life's daily challenges successfully.
Step 1
Finish Immersion Program
Clients get oriented to Anise’s integrated care model and build rapport with both their therapist and coach. From there, most clients continue onto our most popular monthly care plan: the Integrated Track - where they receive two alternating therapy and coaching sessions each to drive behavior change.
Step 2
Coach is assigned by Anise
After clients choose a therapist during onboarding, we assign a coach who has a complementary skill set and schedule; both providers collaborate using our digital platform to ensure a smooth care journey.
Step 3
Graduate to Well-being track
When ready, clients can “graduate” to the Well-being Track and rely primarily on their coach for help bringing their wellness vision to life!
