What is coaching?
Coaching is working with a skilled ‘thinking partner’ to open up your choices and make a change in your life. Every coaching situation is different, depending on what each client needs and I’m guided by you. But the real magic of coaching happens between our conversations, when you put your new thinking to work, trying out different approaches and engaging with new ideas in your everyday world.
What’s the difference between coaching and other ‘skilled helping’?
Coaching starts with you in the here-and-now and lays the path to your future. I don’t have the answers but through the process of reflection, observation and challenge, I’ll help you find your own answers and step forward with confidence.
We start from the position of you having the resources to move to the future you want – either within yourself or by connecting with other experts, by playing, reading, studying, by trial and error.
Other skilled helpers – therapists and counsellors – work with clients when they don’t have the resources, understanding or self-awareness to be able to address their challenges without deeper, therapeutic intervention. Coaching is not a substitute for this type of support. If you are looking for counselling or therapy, take a look at the BACP’s website to use their counsellor and therapist directories.
Does coaching work?
Yes. But only if you’re willing to be honest with yourself, to put in the work between sessions and commit to making the changes you want to see in your life. As a coach, I believe in you. I’m cheering you on from the side-lines but I can’t run the race for you.
How long does it take?
Most often, a programme of coaching runs over six months with six sessions over the phone, video conference or face-to-face, depending on location, accessibility needs and preferences. Sessions are usually up to 90 minutes, with support in between by email or text, as agreed.
How do I choose a coach?
The client/coach relationship is the lynchpin of your success, so you need to partner with the right coach for you. Look for someone who has interests or career experience you can relate to in some way – but remember someone with a different perspective can often be the most helpful. Most importantly, talk to them. See how you get on and take it from there.
Not all coaches are trained or accredited. Ideally look for someone who has formal coaching training and is a member of the International Coaching Federation. This means they have a good grounding in the study of coaching, abide by a recognised code of ethics and are likely to be accredited or working towards formal accreditation.
How much does it cost?
Coaching is an investment in you (or your team) – both financially and in terms of time and commitment. Once we’ve had an initial conversation about your goals, I’m happy to talk about fees.
Wherever possible, I aim to make coaching accessible to people from marginalised and disadvantaged groups. I have some scope for reduced rate sessions and a proportion of pro-bono clients. If that might be you, let’s talk.
Here are some ideas on funding sources:
Not all clients fund their own coaching. Here are some resources you could look into.
Your employer – some employers offer funding for coaching. Ask your Manager or HR contact.
Government grants
The Arts Council England
Creative Scotland
The Arts Council Ireland
Arts Council of Wales
The National Lottery
The Prince’s Trust
Some other ideas courtesy of the Prince’s Trust here