2016 Annual Conference

In the knowledge economy, workplace wellness programs have demonstrated results for increasing worker productivity, retention, and well-being. Holistic personal wellness is important throughout one's career. This session will provide participants with wellness tools and strategies to empower students and clients on the path to attaining the career of a lifetime.

This session is intended for any professional providing direct or indirect services to individuals at any stage of their career development process. Wellness coaching is unique in that it can be effectively utilized by both counseling and non-counseling professionals, in academic, social service, athletic/recreational, or community-based settings. Teachers and faculty, academic advisors, counselors, employment specialists, coordinators, case managers, athletic coaches, spiritual leaders, student leaders, managers, and HR professionals will benefit from the knowledge and tools offered in this session.

Wellness is a holistic approach to life, and in turn, career (Smith, Myers, & Hensley, 2002). The modern wellness movement is rooted in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (1942), where a person may reach self-actualization when other needs are satisfied. Self-actualization is the goal, too, in career development. At work, high stress and low motivation can hamper productivity and job satisfaction. Workplace wellness programs have grown in distinction as effective solutions. However, less research exists in applying wellness principles to serving job seekers. Job loss or unemployment can be damaging to financial stability, self-esteem, and confidence. This not only can delay re-entry into the workforce, but can also result in a sense of desperation, leading to poor career matches. Wellness coaching can help turn the tables in the face of adversity. The career development professional, as wellness coach, is a guide, empowering clients to affect their own positive decision-making. Holistic assessment of a client’s needs through career wellness coaching can lead to successful and sustainable career placements. This session will provide participants with wellness tools and strategies to empower students and clients on the path to attaining the career of a lifetime.