How does this work?
Coaching conversations (sessions) are held either in person, a walk and talk or by phone. After the initial session where we determine the scope of our work together, we speak weekly for 60-minute appointments. For some projects, two hour-long sessions are necessary (keeping within the eight-week/eight-hour commitment). An initial two-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.
How effective is Life Direction Counseling?
The power and effectiveness of coaching also depends upon your weekly commitment to completing actions -- 10' writing assignments from the workbook -- and silent, 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 consult with you to produce results 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 share life- and 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 my practice, I foster vocational clarity, career change 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. Just ask.
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.
How does coaching take place?
Coaching sessions are conducted in 60-minute conversations over the phone, from two to four times a month. We begin our first conversation exploring your hopes, challenges, and opportunities. We will develop action steps that will get you closer to your goals and dreams.
Since coaching can take place over the phone, you do not have to leave your home or office, and I can work with people who live anywhere. The client calls the coach at a designated time that we mutually determine. For those who want to walk and talk on the beach or in the woods on Bainbridge Island, we can meet in person.
Why should I hire a life direction coach?
Because life is so short. Why not take advantage of this powerful tool to focus and enliven/elevate your life? Who wants to keep doing what's not working for the next half-of-life? We are not on this planet long. Are you willing to keep going the way you are going when a more engaging life could be created and stepped into?
How will I know this is working?
If you're working, this will be working. In other words, if you do your 10-minute a day "homework" (fun exercises to cultivate your inner guidance) you'll see results. You'll find yourself listening more to your heart's desires (most energizing activities/ideas) in work and love -- even though this process may feel slow or chaotic at first! You'll be growing in your capacity to trust your instincts and act directly on what you know. Others will notice that you seem happier, better rested, and less-hassled by "the long list" that used to rob you of freedom and autonomy. You'll be able to see the difference between "the old way" you got things done and "the new way" you see your own work and other people's work. You'll feel more able to discern who and what environments feel right, mutually-beneficial, and which do not. You'll stop defending your opinions and choices and will be getting a lot more done that spreads the real joy you're feeling." Most importantly, you'll stop judging yourself so harshly for what you cannot control, (and never could have controlled), which will benefit not only you but all your relationships.
How Fast Does Life Direction Coaching Work?
If you are hoping to find here a "fast and easy" way to change the course of your life, you will be sorely disappointed. Transitioning toward right work simply isn't as easy as the get-rich-quick scammers want you to believe, no matter how much money you give them. It is, however, a journey worth making. If you need proof, see the testimonials page of delighted former customers.
What does the "general" media say about coaching?
Money Magazine - "The benefits of coaching appear to win over even the most cynical of clients within just a few weeks."
Business Week - "As for coaching, having someone listen to you and encourage you, and break everything down into easy concrete steps is rather nice.
Los Angeles Times - "It helps people get more of what they want out of life and coaches are sounding boards, support systems, cheerleaders and teammates all rolled into one."
How much will this cost?
My fees range from $150 - $400 a month depending upon the program you choose. This monthly coaching fee includes unlimited email support. Most clients report that a minimum of two months is necessary to reap the most benefits from coaching. Of course, after this initial period, many stay on to reach new, perhaps riskier goals! For your convenience, I accept all credit cards for payment of coaching fees. I also offer tele-coaching for groups. Please call for prices and discounts.
What else do you offer?
I offer mindfulness retreats for renewal, writing spa retreats, Book Coaching and tele-classes (breaking into publishing), and I officiate at weddings and funerals as an ordained Humanist Minister.
How can I get started?
Most people start with a 90-minute Power Session (for $150), where you are invited to bring a real issue to explore. Then, if you see the potential opening up as we work, you can sign up for my 90-day Vocational Clarity Course
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