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Ready Minds Coaching

Welcome​

I'm Andrew Ockenden: a Philadelphia-based school counselor and self-help coach. ​I work with teenagers and young adults to improve wellbeing through facilitating customized journeys of personal self-improvement. 

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I partner with clients to identify strengths and aspirations and offer support and accountability along the way.​​

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My Philosophy​

According to numerous studies, including a recent survey by Gallup, more young people are struggling with mental health feelings of distress. Despite or because of this need, therapy has become more available and less stigmatized. This is a good thing, but I believe that young people are also in need of support that draws on action to promote personal growth, problem solving, and antifragility. This is where I aim to help. Through my time-bound coaching programs that address short-term goals, I hope that clients can start a cycle of positive momentum that leads to long-term success and fulfillment.​

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My Program

Client relationships are designed be short-term and offer the most "bang for your buck." As such, I will work with young people to set relevant and achievable goals that will have a downstream impact on long-term success and wellbeing. As such, goals will largely relate to one or more of the following domains:

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  • School and career

  • Hobbies and passions

  • Friendships and relationships

  • Health and wellness

  • Life skills and independent living

  • Social media and smart phone moderation: ​see here for more info on this special coaching program

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Through our relationship, I'll meet with clients to find their "why," formulate goals, establish tasks, measure progress, and offer support and accountability. It is my hope that the young person leaves the program with a sense of accomplishment, an understanding for the structure they need to succeed, and clear and measurable victories in their lives. 

About Me​​

I am a middle school counselor at a charter school Philadelphia. I earned an MS in School Counseling from Villanova University, and BA from Hobart and William Smith Colleges. In addition to my work in counseling, I spent over five years recruiting and training volunteer mentors at iMentor: national college access and youth mentorship program based in NYC.

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I live in Philadelphia with my wife, a teacher, and two young children.

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