Coaching: introduction

I define coaching as the science and art of facilitating the development of another human being to be the best they can be at any given time. 

I adhere to the International Coach Federation code of ethics, which honours the client as the expert in his/her life and work, and believes that every client is creative, resourceful and whole.  Standing on this foundation, the coach's responsibility is to:

• Discover, clarify, and align with what the client wants to achieve
• Encourage client self-discovery
• Elicit client-generated solutions and strategies
• Hold the client responsible and accountable

I believe that what I bring to the relationship are three particular coaching skills:

• Listening and being truly present for the client’s journey
• Challenging respectfully and asking questions that promote deeper understanding in the client
• Giving honest and supportive feedback that leads to sustainable change

In order to fully benefit from the coaching relationship, you need to be:

• Ready to accept responsibility for own performance and development
• Willing to co-create in the coaching partnership and trust the journey even when the goal seems out of reach
• Open to exploring your own full potential

Each coaching programme is tailor-made and agreed in advance with the client, and – if applicable – their sponsor (manager or organisation).  Here’s an example of some popular coaching programmes.

I often refer to John Leary-Joyce’s model of four levels of coaching and have extensive practice in coaching at all four levels.  My passion, however, lies in working with clients who are willing to explore Levels 3 (Developmental) and 4 (Transformational).

As a coach, I am fully trained and committed to my own continuing professional development.  Despite having extensive professional and academic qualifications, I am always happy to dance in the moment, experiment, listen and acknowledge when I’m not right.  I am an Associate Member of the Association for Coaching and being accredited by the International Coach Federation, and adhere to their professional and ethical standards.