Frequently Asked Questions
Can life coaches work with trauma?
A Life Coach can be a wonderful asset in understanding, moving forward and finding meaning and purpose after a traumatic experience. If you are actively working through trauma it is important to have a therapist as part of your care team to diagnose and treat trauma.
Is life coaching worth the cost?
The value of life coaching is subjective and depends a lot on your willingness to show up, do the work and take action towards your goals. It is also important to choose a trained coach you trust and connect with. Many individuals find that working with a life coach has improved their lives in powerful and meaningful ways.
Who would benefit from working with a life coach?
The short answer is that anyone seeking to improve their personal or professional life can benefit from working with a life coach. Those that benefit the most are the ones who are ready to make changes, self-reflect and be consistent in taking the steps their coach lays out for them.
Is life coaching currently in high demand?
Yes, the demand for life coaching has surged in recent years with more individuals realizing that a better life is possible and seeking direction in achieving their goals. Life coaches are sought after for their guidance and support in helping people achieve the changes they are wanting and needing to make.
What is the cost of a life coach?
The cost for life coaching services varies with the average range being anywhere from $75 to $300 per session. Many coaches take their clients through a program that can be anywhere from 6 weeks to one year long. These coaches price per program instead of per session. Prices average anywhere from $1,000 for a short program to $100,000 for a year-long program. It is important to speak with your coach about how they charge and what their process includes.
What is the fundamental purpose of a life coach?
The main purpose of a life coach is to be your support, cheerleader and guide as you work towards your goals and overcome obstacles. Their job is to ask the right questions and help you establish the right action steps to create lasting, positive change.
How frequently should a life coach be consulted?
It is common to have one session a week; this helps establish and maintain forward motion towards your goals and prevents wasting time in sessions playing catch-up. Depending on your situation, meeting twice a week or every other week may also be options. Some clients choose to stay on for sporadic ‘check-in’ sessions once their program is complete to help them maintain their progress.
What happens during a life coaching session?
During a life coaching session, the coach will ask questions to determine where you are struggling and get clarity around your goals. Your coach may walk you through an exercise, or share information to help you get the outcome you desire. The two of you will then work together to set realistic and achievable action steps to carry out before your next session.
What distinguishes a life coach from a therapist?
While both life coaches and therapists can assist individuals in overcoming personal and emotional issues, a life coach is primarily focused on where you are now and where you want to be to achieve success, while a therapist can diagnose and treat mental health problems.
What is a life coach not permitted to do?
Life coaches are not licensed mental health practitioners and are therefore unable to diagnose or treat mental health conditions.
What type of person requires a life coach?
Everyone can benefit from working with a life coach. Individuals who feel stuck or unfulfilled in their personal or professional lives may find coaching to be the most valuable tool available to them. An individual looking for guidance would also benefit from a life coach. Additionally, an individual who feels they know what they need to do but are unsure about how to go about doing that would benefit from the insight of a life coach.
Is life coaching considered mental health treatment?
No, life coaching is not viewed as a form of mental health treatment.
Can life coaches help alleviate anxiety?
While life coaches cannot diagnose or treat anxiety disorders, they can assist individuals in recognizing triggers, identifying changes they can make and developing coping mechanisms to create a more peaceful day-to-day experience.
What are the benefits of working with a life coach?
Collaborating with a life coach can aid individuals in a wide range of areas from personal, to relational to professional. You can benefit from working with a life coach as they guide you in overcoming challenges, gaining clarity and setting a direction in your life.
What are the downsides of life coaching?
A life coach cannot diagnose. They also cannot write, sign or provide medical forms/exemptions/restrictions/etc. You will need a therapist or medical professional for this. A Life coach, like counselors and therapists can only help you if you are willing to help yourself; life coaching is not a ‘magic’ fix. You will need to be an active participant in your coaching process.
What qualifications are necessary to become a life coach?
There is no singular qualification necessary to become a life coach. However, many successful coaches have completed training or certification programs and have relevant experience in their areas of specialization. Because this is not a regulated field it is important that you ask your potential coach about their training and background and make sure you choose someone you feel comfortable with.
What types of problems can life coaches solve?
Life coaches can provide clarity as you face a life-transition. Coaches can improve your relationships – including your relationship with yourself. A life coach can help you build self-esteem and self-confidence. Coaches are a great resource for overcoming obstacles, creating effective boundaries, following your dreams, navigating parenthood, establishing healthy habits and so much more.