What is executive functioning?

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, executive function refers to “the group of complex mental processes and cognitive abilities that control the skills required for goal-directed behavior.” If it sounds vague, that’s because it is. We can think of executive function, or EF, skills as pretty much all those that are needed in order to be a productive, reliable, successful human being. The following are some of the most important EF skills necessary for academic and professional success: time management, organization, prioritization, motivation, task initiation and persistence, metacognition, cognitive flexibility, self-regulation, self-advocacy, goal-setting, and stress management. Although health and wellness practices related to sleep, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness are not strictly considered within the realm of executive function, they are, nonetheless, important foundations to consider and improve alongside the above-mentioned skills. Jess’s background in personal training and health and wellness coaching provides a perspective and expertise that is unique to our coaching process.

What is EF coaching?

Our collaborative, non-directive approach to EF coaching allows us to work closely with students to explore skills and strategies that they feel confident and motivated to implement. This process sometimes involves trial-and-error, which allows for meaningful and productive learning experiences on the way to success. The skills learned in EF coaching establish lifelong habits and the confidence necessary to succeed in school, work, and beyond. 

We can explore skills and strategies to help with time management, prioritization, organization, studying, writing papers, health and wellness, and much more. Goal-setting is an important aspect of coaching. During each session, we will review goals from the previous session and work together to understand and overcome struggles and set new goals. This collaborative, metacognitive approach is where the magic happens!

What are the requirements for successful EF coaching?

Attitude is everything! Growth Mindset. Desire to improve. Willingness to try new strategies and, potentially, to retry strategies that may not have worked for you in the past. You are not the student you were last year, last month, or even last week. What hasn’t worked for you in the past may be able to help you now, especially as we work together to tweak these strategies to work for you. Honesty, both with yourself and with your coach, is also crucial for a productive and successful coaching experience.

Coaching works best with regular check-ins; most students have a recurring, weekly appointment for 45-60 minutes. Some students benefit from check-ins 2x/week for extra accountability, organization, and planning. Frequency and duration of coaching will be determined together by the student, parents, and coach. All sessions are held remotely via Zoom.

Cost and Billing:

Private coaching sessions cost $150 per hour, to be billed in 15-minute increments. Sessions can be scheduled with any Collaborative College Coach. No-shows and same day cancellations will be charged a 50% fee. Multiple no-shows or last minute cancellations may result in a 100% fee or termination of coaching. Invoices and brief updates will be emailed monthly.

This sounds interesting. What’s the next step?

I am happy to meet with students and/or parents to discuss current struggles and goals and how EF coaching can help. Please email Jess Connors at jess@collaborativecollegecoaching.com with any questions or to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.