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You are not alone!

I always knew I wanted to be a coach, but for so long I wouldn't let myself for fear that I would never be taken seriously! It felt like anyone and everyone was deciding on a weekend-whim-workshop (at most!) to call themselves a life coach.

I was clearly (!) judging these people and of course feared that same judgement reflecting back on me. I spent so much time researching becoming a therapist so I could feel "legitimate," but if this website wasn't enough of a spoiler to that story - my mindset has vastly changed. There are unbelievable benefits to both therapy and coaching - I've experienced both and am a huge fan.

Coaching FAQ

What is Coaching?

The International Coach Federation (ICF) defines Coaching as a thought-provoking and creative partnership that inspires clients to maximize their personal and professional potential, often unlocking previously untapped sources of imagination, productivity and leadership. 

Coaching is a systematic process that facilitates self-directed learning and growth by the client. A coach's role is not to give advice but rather to elicit the client's authentic desires and feelings through expansive questioning. Clients are the ones that do the heavy lifting in creating change. 

What's the difference between Coaching and Therapy?

Therapy is often closely related to coaching, but has different processes, intention, education and background. Therapy is used to treat mental health through psychotherapeutic methods, and helping clients achieve and maintain baseline. 

The goal of coaching is move clients from baseline to flourishing. Coaching doesn't spend a great deal of time exploring the past. Instead, it primarily focuses on defining a future vision and developing a tactical plan to achieve those goals.   

What's the biggest misconception about Coaching?

Coaching is a partnership! Coaching is not getting advice and being told what to do. Coaching is about pulling the wisdom out of of you vs. pouring it into you. Yes, a coach may offer feedback, observations, or insights based on the information you give them - but it's up to you to confirm if it resonates. No one else has the exact recipe to give you the answers, but a good coach can help you find your unique recipe.

What is it like working with a Coach? 

You can expect a smart, compassionate teammate who does not have any preconceived notions about who you are and what your life is supposed to be like. A coach is a partner in problem solving who helps you manage the ups and downs of everyday life, and accelerate your desired outcomes. A coach will keep you focused on things that matter most to you and help you move forward on your path to flourishing. 

What can a coach help me with?

A coach can help you accelerate your growth and make sustained change. Creating the space to do this is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and others, as it gives you power and agency in your own life. Nothing beats the blahs like tackling obstacles and dreams in small chunks and sleeping easy knowing that you're actively creating the best experience you can have in your one precious life. 

There is a recognition that professional certified coaches have expertise in facilitating the coaching process but do not necessarily have or need high levels of expertise in the client's chosen area of learning in order to be effective. If you are continually hitting the same roadblock, or ruminating in the past, a coach may recommend you work with a therapist in conjunction with coaching.

What is the coaching process like?

A good coach understand theories and models of change and brings tools for self-inquiry, focus and accountability to the table. They provide a safe space for you to take the time to step back and look at your life with an eye towards core values, strategy and commitment to small action steps.

Coaches may employ a variety of different coaching frameworks to facilitate the client in their effort to move from point A (current state) to point B (future desired vision).

Every coach has a different style, but the practice of coaching is built on active listening, reflection and reframing techniques. Alongside these core principles, I like to use the scientific practices, frameworks and tools from Appreciative Inquiry and Positive Psychology. Depending on the client's preference and desired outcome, I may also offer a Spiritual framework. 

How do I know which coach to work with? 

Coaching remains at present, an unregulated industry with very little governance, unlike therapy. However, there is an organization called the International Coach Federation (ICF), that accredits coach training programs and ensures they meet a certain standard. It is your choice whether you choose to work with an evidence based coach who has gone through an in depth ICF-accredited training program. 

​Ultimately you get to decide which coach feels like the best match for you, and likewise the coach also decides if the client is a good fit for them. It's up to you to determine your preferred style of coaching and who you connect with. It's important that you feel safe and comfortable with the coach as they will become your champion. 

What if I want to talk to people you've worked with?

Additional Resources

Contact me and I will can put you in touch with some previous clients who would be happy to discuss with you.

I still have more questions and/or I want to see if we're a good match.

Book a complimentary discovery call and let's chat!

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