What is Life Coaching?
Life coaching is an action-oriented process that helps you improve your life, maximize your potential, and reach your goals. It increases the self-awareness needed to create meaningful change, and teaches you how to apply practical, evidence-based skills in order to live better and thrive. Simply put, coaching gets you from where you are to where you want to be.
Life coaching has been around for decades, but has only recently become a mainstream option for people seeking to improve their lives and mental health. Therapy has long been the traditional path, but is not always necessary or an appropriate solution, and for some, is still stigmatized. Coaching is a great alternative, or can be done alongside therapy if the client is at a functioning level. The main difference between therapy and coaching is that therapists diagnose and treat mental health disorders; coaches do not. Therapists work to bring dysfunctional clients to a level of functioning, whereas coaches bring functioning clients into thriving. To learn more about the differences between coaching and therapy, visit my FAQs page.
What to Look For in a Life Coach
The role of a life coach is to help you determine the changes you want to make, formulate the steps needed in order to make those changes, and be your supportive accountability partner as you strive to reach those goals. Because this is deep, life-changing work, a coach should be trained and certified by a credible organization. Life coaches are not regulated by any government agencies, so be sure to research potential coaches and check their credentials to make sure you’re hiring someone qualified and experienced enough to coach you/your daughter in a professional manner. Ask around for personal referrals from friends, neighbors, parents, teachers, and therapists. Go online and search coaching directories and websites. A great resource to visit is the International Coaching Federation, regarded as the top organization for coaching and credentialing.
In addition to finding someone trained and certified, you should feel comfortable with your coach. Arrange for a consultation prior to hiring so you can determine if the coach is a good fit for your needs. The coach should be able to develop a caring and positive rapport immediately, and the client should feel safe and comfortable opening up to the coach. All coaching sessions are completely confidential, even for minors (with a few exceptions related to personal safety).
The AGC Difference
I believe that in order to be your best self and thrive, you must be true to yourself and live authentically. I’ll help you dig deep and tap into your authenticity as we identify your interests, values, purpose, and passions, then set and pursue compatible goals. I’ll help you identify what you want, why you want it, and how to begin working toward the outcomes you seek. My work with you begins with a thorough assessment to understand your needs and goals, and from there I tailor my coaching specifically to you, aiming for maximum results in minimal time.
My coach training is evidence-based, trauma-informed, and includes cultural awareness, sensitivity, and social responsibility. My coaching will not only help you reach your goals, it will improve your self-esteem, self-awareness, mental health, resilience, and overall well-being. Whether you’re feeling lost, stuck, headed down a bad path, or you’re ready to reach for your next level goals and success, I’m here to help, and my coaching system works.
Studies show the coaching relationship is the best predictor of coaching outcomes. I’ll establish a relationship with you that is built on trust, honesty, and empathy, providing a safe space where I listen actively, evoke awareness, and facilitate your growth. My coaching will help you think broader, further, and deeper than you would otherwise. I will be your powerful and supportive accountability partner.
Let’s get started on your coaching journey today. Book your free consultation here.