FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions worth asking before you commit
If something isn’t covered here, the free informal chat is the best place to ask.
01
What's the difference between coaching and mentoring?
Coaching is about helping you think more clearly. I ask questions, surface patterns, and create space for you to find your own answers. I don't tell you what to do. Mentoring draws on my own experience. I offer perspective, guidance, and practical insight based on having navigated similar challenges myself. Many clients find they want elements of both, and that's absolutely fine.
02
What is psychodynamic coaching. Is it therapy?
Psychodynamic coaching pays attention to what's underneath the surface. The habits, patterns, and beliefs that shape how you lead, often without you realising it. In plain terms: most coaching works on what you do. This works on why. It isn't therapy. We may explore your history where it's relevant to your leadership today, but our focus is always on decisions, behaviours, and results in your role right now.
03
How does it actually work — sessions, frequency, video?
Sessions are 60—90 minutes, conducted on video so geography is no barrier wherever you are in the world. Most clients work monthly though we'll find a rhythm that suits you. We usually start with a block of sessions and review as the work develops.
04
How many sessions will I need?
There's no fixed answer. It depends on what you're bringing and what you want to achieve. Some clients work with me intensively over a few months; others prefer an ongoing relationship over a longer period. We'll have an honest conversation about what feels right after the chemistry call, and we'll review regularly as we go.
05
What happens in the informal chat?
The informal chat is a free, informal 30-minute conversation. No agenda, no hard sell. We talk about what's on your mind, what you're looking for, and whether we'd work well together. You get a sense of how I work; I get a sense of what you need. If it's not the right fit, I'll tell you honestly. If it is, we talk about next steps.
06
Is this right for me?
This work tends to suit leaders who are self-aware enough to know something isn't quite working, curious enough to want to understand why, and committed enough to do something about it. It isn't for people looking for quick fixes, a directive style, or someone to tell them exactly what to do. If you're not sure, the informal chat is the best way to find out.
07
I'm neurodivergent or have mental health experience. Is that okay?
More than okay. I have personal experience of neurodivergence, mental health challenges, and long-term physical health conditions, as well as professional experience of coaching others who carry these too. You won't need to explain yourself or feel like an edge case in our work together.
08
How much does it cost?
I share a fixed-fee proposal after the informal chat, once I understand what you need and what structure would work best. Investment reflects the depth and duration of the work. If cost is a concern, please mention it. I'd rather have an honest conversation than lose the right client over something we might be able to work around.
09
How will I know if it's working?
We'll agree what progress looks like at the start. We'll discuss some goals based on a shared sense of what you're hoping to feel, think, or do differently. We'll check in on that regularly throughout our work together. Most clients notice shifts in how they make decisions, how they relate to others, and how they feel about their role. Some shifts are subtle at first and become clearer over time.
Still have a question?
The informal chat is the best place to ask anything that isn't covered here. And it's completely free.
Book a free 30 min informal chatFree, no obligation, no hard sell