Kids benefit from awareness
SANDTON - Cognitive behavioural coaching teaches children to be their own therapist.
According to the first children’s cognitive coach in South Africa, David Lorge, behavioural therapy helps children understand how their thoughts and feelings impact their performance.
The programme uses problem-solving strategies and skills-building techniques to replace dysfunctional thoughts with proactive behaviour. Lorge tutored, au paired and mentored children while he was studying psychology.
“When I finished my honours, I decided to pursue a career as a life coach as I planned on dealing with children. I have seen many children silently suffer from social disorders,” said Lorge.
“Many parents do not realise the immense stress that their child is under. I love the fact that I can connect with children and teenagers and teach them positive ways to handle and perceive situations, as well as to overcome their emotional problems.”
Lorge refused to take a passive approach to anxiety in the classroom. Instead, he decided to be proactive and use his studies and background to implement a structured system for children.
“I wanted to teach children how to observe situations in a positive light and strengthen their resources and tools for handling tough situations,” he said.
“Coaching is specific to each client. A thorough interview is done with their parents and a unique programme is developed based on their needs.” Lorge teaches his clients about automatic thoughts and core beliefs and how to monitor their mind’s activity.
“We delve into cognitive errors and show them how a simple thought can control their life. I teach them relaxation exercises, mindfulness and instil a sense of calm into their minds,” said Lorge.
He said it is important for people to have an “objective opinion guiding them through life’s ups and downs”.
This therapy works with disorders such as phobias, addiction, depression and anxiety.
Lorge holds his sessions at the care and counselling centre at St Vincent’s School on Oxford Road.
Details: David Lorge on 072 603 2674
072 603 2674 or david@thecognitivecoach.co.za
