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WHAT IS LIFE COACHING?

"A purposeful conversation"

Life coaching has been described as “a purposeful conversation with individuals which inspires them to create the life they want”, or “a non-hands on talking relationship engaging the beneficiaries’ imagination and/or feedback”.

Although similar to counselling in that it is based around a conversation, it differs in being wholly focused on how you move forward. In coaching, discussions about the past are simply a reality check for looking to the future.

You don't need to have a problem to engage in life coaching. Whilst issues prompt many coachees to begin their coaching journey, life coaching gives you the opportunity to reflect on life and make small changes which will improve your day-today experiences as well as working on longer term goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why might you come for life coaching?

People come to a life coach for a variety of reasons including:

Increased achievement in your personal or professional life

Improved physical or mental wellbeing.

Greater personal integrity in life direction

Improved confidence and self-esteem

Overcoming a sense of feeling stuck or in a rut

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE COACHING

People come to our coaching sessions with all sorts of questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions.

Will I be given advice or told what to do?

No. Life coaching is about encouraging personal reflection and decision making. My role is to empower you to make the best choice.

How many sessions will I need?

Whilst this depends on your issues and what you would like to achieve a good starting point is to consider you'll be working over three appointments.

Do you have a standard contract or agreement for working with people?

Yes. Although this is not something we usually sign formally, I practice in accordance with the code of ethics of the Association for Coaching and also have a standard practice agreement.

What qualifications fo you have?

I have a Diploma in Life Coaching and am a member of the Association for Coaching, an international professional body for life coaches. I also hold a PhD in Theology, MA in Criminal Justice, BA in Community Justice, BA in Bible and Theology and a Diploma in Probation Studies. I am also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, a Fellow of the School for Social Entrepreneurs and a Fellow of the Institute of Training and Occupational Learning..

What experience do you have?

I am a former Senior Probation Officer with over 20 years experience working with the marginalised, disadvantaged and people who are struggling with a variety of complex issues. I also lecture Psychosocial Analysis, train life coaches and have been a middle manager in a large public sector organisation.

What sort of people do you work with?

Through life coaching I have worked with a wide variety of people. This has included people in professional occupations, people who are retired or unemployed, people in recovery from issues of abuse or addiction and people with mental health struggles enabling them to improve their wellbeing and rebuild a meaningful life. I have also worked with people to help deal with career related issues and more general life experiences.

Find out about our standard coaching agreement

WHAT CAN I EXPECT LIFE COACHING SESSIONS TO BE LIKE?

Although all sessions are tailored to you as an individual, and therefore unique, there are some common features.

During sessions you will:

Be encouraged to set challenging and inspiring goals for your life in line with your values.

Be nurtured to create a positive and fulfilling lifestyle and identity.

Be supported in exploring your options in a safe environment.

Be helped to generate the action steps which will work for you.

Be working with someone who will believe in you and celebrate your successes.

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