Coaching

I am currently enrolled as a student in the Transformational Coaching program at Western Seminary, an ICF accredited training program. While I am still a coach-in-training, I believe I can help individuals and ministry leaders right now. Keep reading to learn more…

WHAT COACHING IS:

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as partnering in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires a person to maximize their personal and professional potential. The process of coaching often unlocks previously untapped sources of imagination, productivity, and leadership.
When you work with a coach, you set out on a path to greater personal and professional fulfillment.

experiencecoaching.com

Coaching is a unique type of helping relationship that differs from counseling and mentoring. Although there are some similarities, unlike other forms of helping, coaching primarily involves asking questions to help individuals tap into their own expertise and is focused on the present and future. The goal of coaching is action, that is, to move the person being coached forward.

You might be someone who could benefit from coaching if you are:

WHAT COACHING IS NOT

Coaching is not therapy nor does it involve the diagnosis or treatment of mental disorders as defined by the American Psychiatric Association. Coaching is not to be used as a substitute for counseling, psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, mental health care, substance abuse treatment, or other professional advice by legal, medical or other qualified professionals.  

A few more resources defining what Coaching is and isn’t:

• What is coaching according to ICF?
• What is coaching according to the Association for Coaching?
• What is coaching according to the Institute for Life Coach Training?
• ICF on How is coaching different from other service professions?

THE COACHING RELATIONSHIP

A coaching relationship can be a powerful experience, involving the development of new possibilities, new levels of achievement, and personal growth. The coaching relationship between the coach and the client is founded upon mutual trust and respect. The central focus of the coaching relationship is the well-being of the client. 

Fundamental to a successful coaching experience is learning. The coach supports the client in reaching the desired outcome of the client. The coach supports the client in exploring new ways to view situations, individuals, and possibilities and in developing innovative approaches, plans, strategies, and actions. This innovation involves learning that, at times, may be difficult. There may be times when this learning involves new discoveries about the way an individual’s own actions play a part in situations the individual wishes to change. This type of self-discovery can at times be uncomfortable.

I hold all coaching conversations confidential and will not voluntarily divulge information about a coaching relationship without the written or verbal permission of the client unless legally required to do so. I follow the International Coach Federation (ICF) Code of Ethics.

Additionally, I am a Christian. It is important for you to know this about me because my identity as a Christ-follower frames my values and view of the world, and everything in it. You do not need to share my values and beliefs for me to work with you, but this is the most important thing about me and should inform your decision about whether you want me to partner with you.

Note that a typical one-hour coaching session with me consists of around 45 minutes of a coaching conversation with the remaining time reserved for the person being coached to reflect on his or her goals, progress, and accomplishments.

Finally, I should note that Coaching is not a linear process. Growth rarely is. But growth is always better than stagnation which leads to atrophe.

Book a 30-minute consultation with me to learn more and see how coaching might help you.