Coaching while tracking, reducing, or quitting tobacco use can be a true game-changer
When you join the Pivot program, you are paired with a real, human health coach. Those coaches can make all the difference. In fact, Pivoters who work with a coach are 3.6 times more likely to reach their goals than those who don’t interact with a coach. You might be wondering, “how do Pivot coaches get so good at what they do, and how are they uniquely qualified to help me on my journey?”
Coaching certifications are required
Pivot coaches undergo rigorous training in an accredited program to become certified health coaches
These programs can take over one year to complete and include a class component, practice with clients to sharpen skills, and a written examination to ensure coaches have coaching concepts nailed down. Within the last ten years, the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching has been established in partnership with the National Board of Medical Examiners.
This is the new gold standard for certifying coaches. After Pivot coaches complete their initial training, they also pass a qualifying exam to become National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. This requires additional classroom training and dozens of sessions with real clients beyond their original certification.
As a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, your Pivot coach has the expertise, knowledge, and skills to support you in some of the more abstract aspects of quitting tobacco, like mindset and motivation. Your coach knows how to listen and support you as a partner, which in turn provides you with the freedom to take charge of your journey, no matter what your goals are.
Tobacco treatment specialist certification
In addition to developing knowledge and skills to be an effective coaches, Pivot coaches also receive training in how to effectively work with people who would like to reduce or quit nicotine products. Pivot coaches first complete a course on tobacco dependence treatment, which covers the impact of tobacco and nicotine on the body and brain, coping strategies for quitting, and the safe and effective use of NRT.
After completing Tobacco Treatment Specialist training, conducting hundreds of hours of coaching, and passing a written exam, Pivot coaches then receive the National Certificate in Tobacco Treatment Practice (NCTTP).
As a coach with their NCTTP, your Pivot coach is an expert in all things tobacco cessation. They can help you determine the right form and dosage of NRT, what coping strategies might work best in your triggering situations, and how to manage any withdrawal symptoms you might experience.
Putting it all together
This unique combination of training allows Pivot coaches to provide you with a comprehensive experience tailored to your specific needs. So much so that Pivot coaches are experts in treating nicotine addiction AND in helping people create meaningful, lasting change.
They can answer questions about quitting tobacco and give suggestions, but they also ask you the right questions at the right times to help you make your own decisions throughout the process. Maintaining this balance is how Pivot coaches help so many people reach their goals of reducing or quitting using nicotine.
Interested in working with a Pivot coach?
If you’re currently using the Pivot app, coaching is available to you! Just navigate to the “Coaching” tab to learn more about your coach! Coaches are always willing to answer questions about their training and experience, ensuring you feel confident you’re working with someone who can truly help you on the path to success.
Authored by: Abbey Jones, MPH, CHES, NCTTP, CHWC
