Q: What is Coaching?

A: Coaching is about helping clients determine where they currently are in the journey of their lives and where they would like to be, clarifying their life goals, and identifying action steps to reach these goals. It is also about keeping the client motivated and accountable.

Q: Who is a Certified Coach and why is that important?

A: Currently, there are no federal regulations on becoming a Professional Coach. That means, anyone can call themselves a coach, regardless of training, background, and experience with working with people. International Coaching Federation (ICF) was founded to address this void. To be a certified coach through ICF, a coach needs to go through in depth training via an accredited coach training institute, such as CTI, that includes gaining real coaching experience with intern clients and supervision. The coach also has to pass an oral and a written exam to gain the credential. Once certified, coaches need to take continuous education credits to renew their credential every 3 years. Click here to see Sibel’s professional credentials.

Q: What is the difference between Life Coaching and Therapy?

A: The main difference is that, in coaching, we start with the foundation that there is nothing to “fix” with the client. The client is creative, resourceful and whole. Therapy, on the other hand, is diagnostic and treatment based. Another difference is that, in coaching, we focus mainly on present and the future. Therapy usually deals with the past and the emphasis is on understanding the issues rather than action points and accountability.
There are also some similarities between the two. Both professions use techniques that are similar: active listening, being present in the moment, asking powerful questions, etc. However the intention behind those are different.

Q: How do I start?

A: The very first step is to call or e-mail us to schedule your complimentary 30 minute-sample session. During this time, you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions about coaching and explore whether it’s the right fit for you. If you decide to move forward, the next step is to schedule your Discovery Session—a 90-minute coaching session conducted by phone, or via Zoom. Learn more about these sessions here.

Q: How long are the coaching sessions?

A: Your first coaching session is the Discovery Session which is 90 minutes long. After that, regular sessions are 60 minutes long.

Q: Is there a minimum time I need to commit?

A: No, we do not require a minimum time commitment. Our coaching relationship continues for as long as you’re gaining value from the process. The length of time you’ll need depends on where you are now, where you want to go, and your level of commitment to getting there. Many clients, after reaching an initial goal and experiencing the impact of coaching, choose to continue working together as they set and pursue new goals.