The mission of The Youth Happiness Project is to help youth find peace within themselves so that peace can flourish throughout the world. In this age of consumerism and sensory overload, we reject the notion that external things can provide happiness and espouse the values of inner peace, self-love, and emotional independence.
With this in mind, we provide services to youth who are seeking greater mental well-being and deeper connection with their authentic purpose. We also provide wellness resources to youth through our Blog, wellness tips on Instagram and Facebook and by promoting other youth resources.
What services do you provide?
Youth Wellness Coaching. We provide one-on-one support for youth to find greater well-being and connect with a deep sense of purpose.
Wellness Education. We offer classes and workshops rooted in the ancient wisdom of mindfulness, meditation and yoga, adapted for modern life.
Inspirational Speaking. We give uplifting wellness talks to inspire youth to be well, live mindfully and take action in alignment with their authentic self.
What outcomes do you envision for youth that work wth you?
The following four outcomes for youth guide our work:
Improved mental health
Increased self-love
Connection to purpose
Empowered to act in alignment with purpose
Where do you offer your services?
Coaching sessions are typically conducted by videochat or over the phone. In person services are available in the vicinity of Montreal and Ottawa-Gatineau, Canada. If the client has a budget for travel costs, in person services can also be provided worldwide.
You mention mindfulness, yoga and meditation. Is there a religious component to what you teach?
Not at all. We provide coaching and teach practices that promote well being. That said, we don't hide the fact that many of the exercises and techniques take their root in Eastern religions.
How much do you charge for your services?
This depends on a number of factors including the type of program, length of commitment, and other factors.
As much as possible, we aim to make our one-on-one coaching accessible to all while ensuring fair renumeration for the practitioner. The best approach is to contact us to start the discussion or book a free exploration session.
YOUTH WELLNESS COACHING
You mention you use a coaching approach. Is this like therapy?
No. Coaching is not therapy - it does not focus on past trauma, nor diagnosing or treating mental illness. Coaching places the accountability and trust in the clients inherent wisdom, with the coach supporting. Our approach is forward-looking and focussed on empowering youth to become champions of their own well-being. We help youth set objectives, determine their approach, overcome barriers and stay on track.
Coaching can be a good complement to traditional therapeutic approaches. Consult the following resource for more information on coaching.
What ages do you coach?
We find that our coaching is most suited for youth between the ages of 15-25. That said, there is no set-in-stone age range. If there is a good fit and the prospective client is motivated to create change, we are happy to work with them (this includes the youth-at-heart!).
What do you mean by a good fit?
Not every practitioner or program is for every youth. This is why we offer a free exploration session - we want the youth (and sometimes parents) to get acquainted with the coach and understand the programming so they can decide if its right for them.
I am a parent and I think my youth could benefit from your coaching services. That said, I'm not sure they would be interested. How should I approach this?
The engagement of the youth is crucial for the success in our programs. We would recommend talking about our programming with your youth and seeing if they would be interested in setting up a free exploration session. We do not advise pushing the youth into anything.
I have a serious mental illness. Can I work with you?
Our services can be helpful to all kinds of people. That said, it is important to note that we are not qualified to diagnose or treat mental illness and that our services do not replace those of a therapist. In many cases our services may serve as a complement to traditional therapy. If you are seeing a therapist, it may be a good idea to talk with them about whether these services could benefit you.
I am a youth under the age of 18 and I am interested in your coaching program. What approach should I take?
In the case of minor youth, a parent/guardian will need to provide written consent for participation in our coaching program. You or your parent/guardian can contact us to start the process.
ABOUT THE COACH
What are your qualifications?
The founder and service provider for The Youth Happiness Project, Dave Sullivan, has the following background:
Certified Professional Coach (ECPC) with Erickson Coaching International
Certified Instructor in Mindfulness-Based Stress-Reduction for Teens (MBSR-T) with Stressed Teens
2008 Mentor of the Year with Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa
Certified Therapeutic Yoga Instructor (over 1000 hours of training)
Teen Meditation Retreat Mentor with Insight Meditation Society and Inward Bound Mindfulness Education
Over 500 hours of course experience in Buddhist Vipassana Meditation
BA (Hon) Communications from the University of Ottawa
I want to learn more about whether Youth Wellness Coaching is right for me. What should I do?
Contact us to book a free exploration session. You will have the opportunity to meet the coach and learn more about the program, so that you can decide if it's right for you.
I work with a youth group and am interested in your services. How can I reach you?
Please contact us by phone, email or over social media to get the conversation started.