What’s it like to work with me?

The typical way most clients get started is with an exploratory session. This is sort of a coaching first date, where we get to know each other so we can see whether we’re a fit. It’s free with no obligation. I only take on clients I feel confident I can help.

In that exploratory call:

1. You explain where you’d like help. Usually that’s something specific and tangible like “I’m frustrated with my job” but it could also be a more general need like figuring out what’s next in your life or wanting to feel more fulfillment.
2. I ask questions to understand your needs. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all coaching. What works for someone else could flop for you.
3. I offer some possible ways we could work toward your goals. For some people, that’s creating a fast-paced plan with deadlines and accountability. For others, it’s simply having a sounding board to explore options. We will discuss what’s a fit for you.
4. You ask any questions you have. What would make you feel like you got your money’s worth from our work together? What concerns you? We’ll discuss whatever will help you decide.

My coaching packages start with a six-session minimum. The real results from coaching come from the work you do between sessions so I want you to work with me long enough to actually see the benefits. Otherwise, you might feel you’ve wasted your time and money.

I also offer a 12-session package. You’ll get a better price when you lock into a longer plan.

When you’re ready to get started, you will:

1. Choose and pay for your package.
2. Sign an agreement spelling out how we will work together.
3. Answer a questionnaire designed to give you an opportunity for self reflection while I learn more about you.

Our first meeting will be a two-hour deep dive called a discovery session. We will clarify your working style and preferences, like how much homework you want and how hard you want me to push you, then explore your values, needs and aspirations through a mix of conversation and visualizations.

After that, we will meet for about an hour each time. I try to wrap up a little before the hour, to give you time to complete your work before dashing off to the next meeting. We will start by reviewing your progress on homework, then I will ask what you want to work on that day. The coaching client sets the agenda and I follow your lead on your priorities. You’re not restricted to working on the topic that originally brought you to me. If circumstances in your life change or if something bubbles to the surface for you, we can adapt as we go.

Typically I meet with clients twice a month, which allows enough time between sessions to implement anything we’ve talked about but frequently enough to keep momentum. That said, this is your time so you choose the pace that fits your needs and your lifestyle. We can schedule several of your sessions right away, or be more fluid if your schedule requires. We can meet Thursdays or Fridays during the day, or weekday evenings, or occasionally on a weekend.

I talk with most of my clients using Google Hangouts for video calls, so we can see each other. It’s helpful for me to read when you’re frustrated or confused, versus just taking notes or thinking, so we can tackle it together. Phone is also an option, if that’s more convenient or comfortable for you. I’m also available for email and text support in between sessions when something comes up that can’t wait.

Our time together will involve me asking more questions than providing answers. A consultant diagnoses the problem and delivers solutions. As a coach, I work to help you see the roadblocks for yourself. You know best what’s tripping you up, so I assist as you identify the problems and create a plan to overcome them. We are partners in achieving your goals, and only you know what is right for you.

You will get the most out of coaching if you commit to doing the work between sessions. Sometimes that might mean reading, journaling or quietly reflecting. It might mean trying to create a new behavior or break an old habit. We might set a deadline for you to follow through on a task you’ve been postponing. Nothing is “assigned.” I will offer you possibilities and you are free to say yes or no, or make a counteroffer. When you commit, following through will be up to you.

Because real life is not a sitcom, sometimes we might not leave you in a tidy place at the end of our session. You might have more questions than answers, you might have so much more to say about a topic. Part of your homework might be to work through some issues on your own and decide where to pick up next time. You can reach out to me if you need help doing that.

I will challenge you. That is part of our work. But there is a difference between pushing you to grow and causing you hurt. I will never intentionally cross that line and I ask that you tell me if I do.

Many of my clients see a therapist at the same time. That’s not required, of course, but several clients have wanted to approach their personal growth from multiple angles. I think of coaching as seeing a physical trainer, while your therapist is your sports med doctor. We share a goal of getting you strong and healthy, but with different skill sets and ways of working with you. If you raise an issue that I believe is best handled by a licensed therapist, I will tell you. One simple distinction: Your therapist will work with you to address your past traumas and to treat your mental health concerns, such as depression or anxiety, while your coach will focus primarily on the present and the future, including what you need to do and who you need to be to make the changes you desire.

At the end of your series of sessions, you can decide to continue month to month if you want ongoing support, or if you prefer, we will dedicate our final session to reviewing what you have covered and how to continue making progress.