Surgery Coaching: Pre-Op Support

Why do Surgery Coaching?

  • Medical studies show that learning how to reduce anxiety lessens pain, leading to fewer complications and a quicker, more robust recovery.
  • Learning how to advocate for yourself is empowering in a stressful situation.
  • Motivation to rebound will help you remember your goals for this surgery:
    • To regain a lifestyle you’ve been missing
    • To be pain free
    • To dance at your son’s wedding
    • To play with your grandchildren more easily
    • To hike, golf, play tennis, garden…

What is Surgery Coaching?

An individualized surgery support plan to:

  • Create calm before surgery
  • Affirm your sense of personal empowerment
  • Effectively communicate your needs to your surgical team
  • Establish a cooperative support circle of family, friends, and professionals
  • Determine which complementary practices can best support your recovery
  • Get back to your life with new resources for zestful living

What will happen in my coaching sessions?

  • The first session is a one and a half hour assessment and goal setting. You and your coach will map out your sessions and your at-home practice and preparation
  • Sessions with your coach will address fears and concerns in anticipation of surgery, maximizing personal control while surrendering to hospital procedures, building a support network of friends, relatives, and health care professionals.
  • You will learn simple breathing exercises, receive a personal relaxation and visualization tape, and develop comfort strategies to enhance your well-being during this experience.

How do I get started?

Surgery coaching is best started when your doctor sets the date for your surgery. Like any physically strenuous event, the more “in shape” you are through practice and preparation, the more empowered and calm you will be throughout the surgery experience. The closer you get to your surgery date, the busier you will be so plan ahead and start NOW with surgery coaching.

  • The fee for this service may be insurance reimbursable.
  • Information about other modalities (massage, acupuncture, healing touch, nutrition counseling) will be made available.

Remember: You are the most important part of this equation so you have a voice in creating your surgery plan.