FAQs

What is coaching?

Coaching is a thought provoking and creative process that inspires a person to maximize their personal and professional potential. Coaching focuses on visioning, success, the present and moving toward the future. 

What education or certification should I look for in a coach?

The International Coach Federation (ICF) serves as the guiding professional association in coaching. It’s strongly recommended to select a coach who has attended an ICF accredited program. Coaches are bound by high ethical guidelines, have been trained extensively in order to obtain certification (including having their coaching critiqued and working with mentor coaches), and have rigorous continuing education requirements so you can trust the legitimacy to their commitment to excellence in coaching.

Is what we discuss during coaching sessions confidential?

Yes. What we talk about is not shared with anyone else. The only exception is if your employer hired me to coach you. If this is the case, we will review specific details to ensure you are aware of what is shared.

How often do we meet?

You make the decision. It depends on the reason for coaching. Some desire a few sessions while others prefer a longer period of time.

Where do we meet?

Typically, we will meet using Zoom video conferencing. Zoom is free and easy to use. If you live in the St. Louis metropolitan area and prefer to meet face-to-face, this is another option.

When do we meet?

Whenever it’s best for you. It’s important to find a time of day you won’t be interrupted so you can focus 100% on YOU. 

Coaching vs. Therapy

The International Coach Federation compares coaching and therapy as follows. Coaching is a thought provoking and creative process that inspires a person to maximize their personal and professional potential. Coaching focuses on visioning, success, the present and moving toward the future. Therapy emphasizes psychopathology, emotions and the past to understand the present, and it works more with developing skills for managing emotions or past issues than does coaching.