Frequently Asked Questions
What is coaching?
What kind of results can I expect?
What kind of commitment is involved?
How is coaching different from consulting?
How is coaching different from therapy?
What's the first step?
What is coaching?
Coaching is a collaborative process that invites you to design the life
and work of your dreams – and then to bring that plan to fruition.
It addresses the overall balance of your life, while simultaneously
focusing on specific projects that fulfill your goals step-by-step.
What kind of results can I expect?
(See Results page.)
What kind of commitment is involved?
Coaching sessions are held either in person or by phone. After the initial
Foundation session where we determine the scope of our work together,
we meet weekly for 30- or 40-minute appointments. For some projects,
two hourlong sessions per month replace the weekly appointments. An
initial three-month commitment is needed in order to get significant
and lasting results, and then we shift into a month-to-month
framework until your goals are complete.
The power and effectiveness of coaching also depends upon your weekly
commitment to completing actions and inner explorations between sessions.
The process is like studying a musical instrument, where your skills
and talents emerge through your daily practice, and your teacher provides
the guidance each week to keep you on course.
How is coaching different from consulting?
Consultants advise and produce results for you in specialized areas of expertise, such as
tax law or investment decisions. On the other hand,
coaches are expert in the process of personal and professional development. Their intent is to teach you life and business management skills and goal achievement skills that you can use for the rest of your life.
Coaching also differs from consulting in one other significant way
-- it provides an ongoing relationship for the follow-through required
to make long-lasting change in your life. Coaches help you structure
the larger picture so that your whole life is in alignment with your
goals.
In practice, many coaches specialize in focused niches such as wellness, finances, career change or business, and in that way offer a blend of coaching and consulting.
I maintain a referral network of many consultants such
as graphic and website designers, media relations experts, professional organizers and
presentation trainers, if such services are needed for your projects.
How is coaching different from therapy?
Therapists are trained to heal traumas and deep emotional pain from the
past, allowing you to function with better emotional health. In contrast,
coaches are trained to guide you into the actions and insights that
will transform a healthy life into an off-the-charts one that fulfills
your larger sense of purpose.
The two forms complement each other, and can work well together for
maximum benefit in your life. I have a working referral relationship
with a number of therapists if the additional support is desired.
What's the first step?
Most people start with a complimentary coaching session, where you are
invited to bring a real issue to explore. Then, if you see the potential
opening up as we work, you can schedule your Foundation session and
start the in-depth process. For more information, visit the coaching
services page or call me at 415.488.4998.
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