How is coaching distinct from therapy?

In coaching, both coach and client operate as equal partners in meeting the client’s goals.  Coaching explores the what and how of the future. Instead of asking why something is the way it is, coaching asks, “what do you want it to look like instead?” and “how might you take steps to get there?”

 

Aren't coaches just really good advisors or friends?

Nope. Coaches are professionally trained to remain objective, non-judgmental, and unattached to a specific outcome. So while many people describe their coaches in terms similar to that of a phenomenal friend, there is an important distinction: “A best friend has opinions...  A coach has a process.” - International Coaching Federation (ICF)

 

Why do I need a coach?

Kobe Bryant, Steve Jobs, and Oprah Winfrey all worked with coaches to maximize their abilities. Whatever your starting point, if you want to change, grow, or try something new, a coach can help you get there quicker, and with purpose, direction, and confidence. 

 

“Who, exactly, seeks out a coach?  Winners who want even more out of life.” 

• Chicago Tribune

 

“A third of all Fortune 500 companies utilize executive coaching as standard leadership development for their elite executives and talented up-and-comers.” 

• The Hay Group

 

When is coaching beneficial?

You can seek coaching at any stage of life. You do not need specific goals to begin; you can even start from a place of feeling stuck. Do any of the following sound like you? 

• I want a plan for advancing professionally. 

• I want to increase my impact by improving my leadership skills.

• As a full-time working caregiver, I want to figure out how to allocate my time and energy in ways more satisfying than constantly putting out fires.

• I feel stuck and I want to discover what else is out there for me.

• I am ready for a change, but don’t know what it is I need or want.

• I know the changes I want to make; I just need support getting there.

• I want to build better habits and waste less time.

• I want to let go of things that no longer serve me.

• I want to thrive and feel excited about life, not just exist on autopilot.

 

Who is your typical client?

My clients vary widely. Among them include a physical therapist, people in government careers, retirees, former Peace Corps volunteers, lawyers, and a YouTuber, to name a few. Their backgrounds and aspirations are diverse, but all of my clients are highly motivated, committed to building their best life, and willing to try new approaches. They’re willing to do the work to see results.

 

What is leadership vs. life coaching?

Leadership coaching focuses on developing as the leader you want to be. It is not exclusively for those in formal leadership positions, as we can be leaders in nearly any context, including outside of work. Leadership coaching is for those who want to hone their leadership style, overcome imposter syndrome, lead with inspiration, become skilled problem-solvers, develop effective teams, manage up, and develop executive presence. Life coaching is about developing your ability to thrive in all areas of life—relationships, finances, health, career, and leisure. People seek life coaching to overcome burnout, find more purpose and meaning, navigate transitions, build desired habits, and balance work/family/hobbies.

 

How do I know if you are the right coach for me? 

Finding the right "fit" with a coach is important, so I offer an initial 20-minute coaching meeting free of charge to determine if we are suited to work with each other. You could also check out the about me page and read the testimonials to see how other people describe my coaching style and what they’ve gained from our time together.

 

What can I expect for my time and effort?

You will experience highly satisfying change/growth/results if you show up fully present, are honest with yourself, and are willing to try new ways of thinking, working, communicating, doing, and being between sessions. I promise to show up and invest my skills and experience in your success. And if this all sounds a little heavy… there will be plenty of laughter, lightness, and inspiration as we work toward your goals.