What, How, and Why: Your Questions About Coaching

Questions About Coaching

These are typical questions that clients ask me about coaching, so I’ve compiled some, along with their answers, to help you determine if coaching is right for you.

What is a relationship coach?

Relationship coaches are similar to personal life coaches; the only difference is that they focus on you and your connections. Coaches help you develop greater fulfillment in your personal relationships and connections. A relationship coach can help with any kind of relationship: partners, family, friendships, coworkers - even the relationship you have with yourself. You can choose to work with a relationship coach individually or with others. Relationship coaches also work with people who are not yet in a relationship.

Is coaching the same as counseling?

The short answer is “nope”! While there may be an overlap of processes, coaching and counseling are very different. Coaches work with clients in a collaborative process to help them identify goals, recognize gaps, and work through hurdles. It is a short-term, guided process for you to achieve your goals. Relationship counseling, on the other hand, focuses more deeply on the underlying dynamics of individuals and their relationships. Relationship coaching is not couples’ therapy. While you may delve into your past during a coaching session, the focus is more on the present and future.

Why do I need a coach?

People seek coaches for a number of reasons: sometimes they have relationship struggles; other times they have good relationships but want to grow and learn to improve their connections. Do you have a history of tough relationships? Working with a relationship coach can help you determine what you want in a relationship and/or stay on track with a plan to find a deeper connection with someone.

Working with a coach can help you clear up your thinking, get a different perspective, or set inspiring new goals. Many coaches – including me – offer complimentary discovery sessions so that you can see if coaching is for you. For me, this introductory session allows us to get to know one another, and ensure that we are a good fit.

What should I expect from a restorative coach?

A restorative coach engages with clients in a collaborative and empowering manner. A restorative coach is a guide who doesn't offer unsolicited advice. Instead, the agenda for each session is developed by both you and the coach. As you create your plan, your coach will assist you in the structure of the plan and work with you to outline the steps needed to achieve your goals. A restorative coach can help you quickly uncover the essence of what you want in your relationships, determine past patterns and hurdles, and create a space for you to work on your relationship with yourself and others.

Have other questions? Please feel free to contact me directly!