Life Coaching Definition

Life Coaching at New Peaks Coaching is all about helping youth and young adults figure out who you are, what matters to you, and how to handle life’s challenges with confidence. Instead of telling you what to do, a coach gives you space to explore your own goals, build self-awareness, and learn skills like managing stress, staying motivated, and making decisions that feel true to you. Good life coaches are trained to listen, encourage, and challenge you in ways that build resilience and confidence—so you can move through setbacks, discover your strengths, and create the kind of future you want for yourself. Life coaches also help you to hold yourself accountable and provide feedback based on the patterns, thoughts and feelings observed during discussions. Life coaching is valuable because it helps you uncover your true potential, break through the barriers holding you back, and create intentional momentum toward the life you actually want to live.

Coaching vs Therapy

Both coaching and therapy aim to enhance well-being—but they serve different purposes and work best at different points on the wellness spectrum. Therapy is designed to address dysfunction—mental health challenges or emotional distress—helping individuals regain normal functioning. Coaching, by contrast, is for those who are already functioning well and want to thrive—moving from “okay” to flourishing. Where therapy supports healing and recovery from issues, coaching is future-focused and growth-oriented, helping young people set meaningful goals and build resilience to pursue them. Click here for more information.

Common Coaching Areas

  • Building self-confidence

  • Managing stress and anxiety

  • Improving motivation and focus

  • Time management and organization

  • Academic success and study habits

  • Career exploration and planning

  • College readiness and transition skills

  • Decision-making and problem-solving

  • Emotional regulation

  • Improving relationships with peers or family

  • Developing leadership skills

  • Goal setting and achievement

  • Building resilience and coping strategies

  • Identity and purpose exploration

  • Healthy habits and lifestyle choices

  • Social skills and communication

  • Managing technology and social media use

  • Balancing responsibilities (school, work, extracurriculars)

  • Overcoming procrastination

  • Transitioning into adulthood/independence

Youth Coaching Institute

Jerry Van Leuven received his coaching certification from the Youth Coaching Institute (YCI). This approach is built on research from psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science to make sure its coaching methods truly support teens and young adults. This pathway has been shown to improve confidence, resilience, school engagement, and relationships—all while giving young people more voice and ownership in their growth. YCI uses a person-centered style, meaning Jerry won’t just give advice—he helps youth and young adults discover their own strengths and solutions. With YCI training programs accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and the Center for Credentialing and Education (CCE), parents can feel confident that Jerry is using practices grounded in science and proven to help young people thrive.