How is coaching different from mentoring, counselling and therapy?

Mentoring happens when an experienced person passes on life’s lessons to the protégé. It happens in the work place as well as in the social context.

A Counsellor or therapist is trained to give guidance on personal or psychological problems. The words counsellor and therapist are used interchangeably.  They focus on the problems and offers solutions.

A Coach will partner with the client and have a reflective conversation, at the end of which the clients will be able to resolve on their own and arrive at their own action plans. In coaching we believe the client is the Subject Matter Expert and will know what is the best action plan. It is a client driven process and the belief is that the client is creative, resourceful and whole. It is not a training or counselling or mentoring.

I am a strong independent person. I don’t think I need the assistance of a life coach.

Very true. You can do so. However, it is difficult for one to work on oneself just as it is impossible for us to have a 360 degree view of ourself without having a full length mirror. The coach acts as the mirror and reflects back your thoughts, challenges you occasionally, enabling you to introspect on your thoughts. Sometimes you may not even identify the issues that are holding you back because you are caught up in your thoughts and are unable to think through objectively. The coach acts as your external eyes and ears and gives you a true picture of your reality and helps you make a breakthrough.

Can a coach transform your life?

No, you will transform your life if you are willing to commit to the action plan that you have set for yourself. The coach helps you in making the breakthrough and getting the true reality that was evading your notice.  There is no magic. It calls for the client to make the necessary changes that the client him/herself has identified. When clients decide on the future action plans, they take ownership of it and are more likely to follow it as compared to suggestions/advices offered by others. The coach will act as your support system and be a partner in your journey.

How many people have benefitted?

You can judge for yourself by having a look at the testimonials section.

What is the process of life coaching?

Once a client reaches out to the coach, they have a preliminary meeting where they get to know each other and discuss on whatever apprehensions that the client may wish to clarify. Modalities for the future are chalked out.

Each session begins with the coach asking the client what s/he would like to discuss in those 45 minutes. Remember it is a client driven process. The session goal/objective is set.

The client shares his/her thoughts and the coach listens being fully present in the moment. Coach will reflect the client’s thoughts, ask questions and this gets the client to reflect and lead to a breakthrough moment.

A new understanding or enhanced thinking or better clarity or removal of mental block, or maybe simply feeling more relaxed and composed could be the outcomes. The client feels enabled to decide on future course of action that includes behavioral change. These changes are expected to bring in the transformation that they are seeking in their lives.

A time frame is set for the next follow up meeting where both will review progress or discuss on any other issue that the client may wish to discuss. It takes about 3 months before one can expect visible changes.

Are any assessments tests used?

All sessions are customized. If the need arises, assessment tests are suggested. These help the client to get a new perspective that they were not aware of earlier.

Are the sessions online or offline? What about confidentiality?

They are as per the convenience of the coach and the client. I assure of the highest degree of confidentiality.

What kind of packages do you offer? How much are the charges?

Life Coaching , Executive Coaching and Team Coaching packages are customized and charges vary. Charges are kept reasonable so as not to deprive a client needing help in moving forward. A basic package will comprise of four sessions in a span of three months.

Is it restricted for individuals in India?

No, as long as the client can communicate in English I will be happy to coach.

Are coaches trained persons?

Yes, they are. I am trained by Coach Transformation Academy (Dubai), an ICF accredited training institute.

What is ICF?

• The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is the leading global organization for coaches and coaching.
• ICF is dedicated to advancing the coaching profession by setting high standards, providing independent certification and building a worldwide network of trained coaching professionals.