Rita Moore

Rita earned degrees and coaching certifications at: *Erikson Institute in Chicago for two semesters of Seminars for Clinical Directors * National College of Education, Post graduate Administration & Supervision *Northern Illinois University, Master of Science in Special Education *Southern Illinois University, Bachelor of Science in Child Development *** Coaching Certifications earned: * PATH, Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, Certification as Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning * ICF International Coaching Federation, Certified Coach * Koelle Institute, Certified Equus Coach

Rita began working in an Early Childhood program with families and with their children having specials needs. During many years in the school system her work supported not only young children but all ages including young adults. While teaching was at the core of her work for many years, she also developed programming for parents, presentation and training for other professionals, and taught at the college level. Rita became the Director of a nationally recognized Family Support Center and created additional new programming there as well. At some point a few years later Rita became very interested in coaching and therapeutic work as she witnessed and experienced firsthand the transformational changes this could make for participants. She obtained certifications to support others in this way and plans to continue in this powerful work. Rita also really enjoys coaching clients as they interact with horses too!

To Rita, coaching is deeply listening, caring, observing, and providing feedback in a non-judgmental environment that supports clients in moving forward toward their desired goals or outcomes. During a coaching session a client may reflect on past experiences as well as address current challenges or goals. A coaches role is to truly listen to the client without judgement, hearing the client’s needs and concerns and offering a sincere and committed sense of support. Sometimes reflecting back on what has just been shared can build clarification for both individuals. Often this serves to deepen the conversation and can lead to a time of refection of what may have gone well or what may be challenging in a particular situation or in a client’s life. At times open ended questions are helpful. Together sharing steps and goals to move forward and then the client later sharing outcomes, are ways of determining when the client feels successful. Are there obstacles making it difficult? Has a different goal surfaced? STEPS: Establishing Connection, determining the agenda, deeply listening, setting goals, designing actions, committing to action, scheduling a follow up, AND Celebrating success!

When not at work, Rita enjoys being in nature and taking walks along the beach or on beautiful wooded trails. Being with and working with horses is always a highlight! Time with good friends and family is very central in Rita’s life.