Frequently asked Questions

What is the difference between coaching and counselling?

In coaching we focus on an outcome and each session builds on the previous one. Counselling is not necessarily goal-orientated. Coaching is very similar to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - CBT - if you want to be coached to change behaviour patterns that hold you back.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on what you want to achieve. You will need at least 4 sessions to make lasting progress. Most clients have 6 or more sessions, usually once a fortnight.

Telephone or face-to-face sessions?

Both work well. Many clients have both, but it's whatever suits you.

Why can't I just talk to a friend?

You can - but coaching is not the same as talking to a friend. A coaching session is carefully structured, completely confidential and focused totally on you - never us. Clients tell us that we are more direct, and challenging, in the nicest possible way, than their friends could be!

Who uses a coach and for what?

We've coached teachers, accountants, marketing managers, MDs, IT professionals, business owners, artists, lawyers, social workers, full time Mums, and more. The majority- but by no means all of our clients - come to us to discuss either careers, work-life balance and self-esteem - or any combination of these.

Do coaches give advice?

It is important that any decisions you make are yours, not ours. We help you to make the right decisions by asking pertinent questions and suggesting options.

How should I choose a coach and are you the right coach for me?

Some coaches have no training, and training varies enormously. Ask a coach how long they trained, how many clients they coached whilst training, and if that coaching was assessed. Your coach should belong to a recognised, independent organisation. We are a Member of the Association for Coaching. Our training and experience is recognised by them and we work within their Code of Ethics. www.associationforcoaching.com

Does coaching work?

Yes - but only if you are commited to it. We have 100% success rate with clients who complete their course of sessions. The testimonials represent only a fraction of the clients we have coached.

Is coaching expensive?

On average, a series of sessions will probably cost you less than you spend on either clothes or entertainment in a year. Coaching is about turning your life around. If you seriously want to make changes which will last far beyond your last session, then coaching is not expensive.