What is coaching?
One to one coaching is a conversation between coach and client, where the client wants to develop or change some aspect of their life. While it often focuses on work, career or business situations, coaching can help with any and many aspects of your life over a number of sessions. Often it is necessary to explore the personal aspects of our life in order to improve our time spent at work.
How does coaching work?
- Coaching creates the space for you to explore possibilities, gain clarity and confidence
- A coach guides and challenges; you do the work and reach your own decisions
- Take the time to reflect: explore thoughts, feelings and ideas
- Express your fears, face challenges, test your resolve, all in confidence
- Build your plans, find inspiration, move forward
Is coaching just talking?
No. I offer exercises which can help you examine the balance in your life or the values you follow, and you can decide whether you would like to do these in any of your sessions. You can also write, plan or design if you wish. Blackberries, ipods and calculators are welcome! Reflection is also useful, so if you need quiet time just say.
Where are you based?
I work from home in Bookham (Google Map) in a light, airy room which offers privacy and confidentiality. I also offer telephone and online counselling so location doesn’t matter.
How do I get started?
The first session is information gathering and mapping out your goals and how you might achieve them. We sign a contract which is an agreement about attendance, confidentiality, cancellation and what you can expect from me. Payment for a block of sessions should be made prior to starting; for single sessions payment is made at each appointment.
Is coaching confidential?
Yes, with one exclusion. If I think that you have the intention to either harm yourself or someone else then I am obliged to report this to an authority. Otherwise I do not discuss our work together with anyone. If a third party contact or referral is helpful I will do this with your permission only.
How many sessions will I need?
Some people just want one or two sessions to clarify ideas or plans. Most people take a few weeks to reflect and implement ideas as they go along. Others find fortnightly or monthly coaching offers long term support.
Are there any people you don’t coach?
If you have a diagnosed mental health condition then I would want to discuss whether you have had, or are having counselling, and whether coaching is right for you at the present time. I might suggest you see your GP if you have not already done so, or refer you to a counsellor.
I do not coach people I know or family members of clients.
Do you keep information on me?
Yes. I take your name and contact details, basic information about your family members and make brief notes about the content of each session. These do not have your name on. I keep these in a locked cabinet for six years.
Can we meet up in social settings or online?
It may be that our paths cross occasionally at professional events or that you want to link up on LinkedIn. Otherwise, our relationship is a professional one and I do not socialise with clients. If we bump into each other outside of the coaching session you may be with people who do not know about your coaching. I will smile but will not stop to talk unless you do so. Please do not take offence at this.
What will it cost?
Please see fees.
