What is coaching?
The International Coach Federation (ICF) defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.”
Coaching can also be defined as a partnership between the coach and the client to help the client get from where they are to where they want to be.
Is coaching like therapy, consulting or mentoring?
Coaching is not any of those. Therapy, consulting, and mentoring all have different types of relationships and functions with the client. Therapy serves to solve pain and dysfunction with roots in the past. The consultant analyzes and prescribes a solution based on a specific area of expertise. The mentor provides wisdom and guidance based on their own experience.
The coach is focused on helping the client experience personal growth, set goals, and create desired outcomes.
How long does the coaching process take?
Every client is different and comes to the coaching relationship with his/her own agenda. Real change involves discovery, practice, feedback, and learning to change habits and learn new ways to be successful. To give you every opportunity to experience your success, I recommend a commitment of at least six months.
Many clients stay longer or come back periodically for a few coaching sessions to work through specific questions or opportunities they have.
Do I have to sign a long-term contract to receive coaching?
No, I will provide you with a coaching agreement that will outline what you can expect of me and what I expect of you. The coaching relationship is based on trust and respect and you can end the relationship at any time for whatever reason you might have.