My coaching philosophy

I think in systems: in connections, patterns and relationships. Those systems include our own internal processes, our patterns of relating to others, and our connection to teams, groups and wider society. Once we understand the impact of those connections, we can make better decisions, choose intentionally and make the radical change we seek.

This connectivity why I choose not to promote an Executive version of my practice, call myself a Business Coach, adopt a Life Coach label, Career Coach or other ‘single problem solution’. I have studied Systems Theory and bring this approach to my coaching practice.

In whatever context we meet, together we explore your ambition, what success looks like for you and how you want to change and grow to achieve your potential.

We will also consider if anything is holding you back – within your own internal world, or in your relationships with others. What might you be able to introduce into your life? What do you find difficult? Which relationships need to change? Where is your impact felt the most keenly?

Our coaching conversation is intelligent, adult-to-adult, and grounded in my belief that we all have the ability and agency to change. I will help you do your best thinking.

I do also understand how attached we are to finding the right coach for the right challenge, so share some examples of how systems-based coaching can begin in a specific area: personal development, work and career, systemic. It is deep work, and certainly not for everyone. But if you are curious and courageous, enjoy the clarity that comes from understanding complexity, and have the desire to change, then we will do good work together.

Also…

I am a therapist too, which means I can work at psychological depth if required and have a robust understanding of the influence emotional issues can have on achieving potential. But this is not ‘therapy-by-stealth’; I usually work with clients who have a good level of emotional strength and have a level of 'coachability' which makes them ready for the challenge that comes with working towards enduring change.

Some people have described this dual-skilled approach as ‘coaching mastery’, which I quite like.

And…

My corporate background is in branding, marketing and sustainability (hence the systems lens); leading teams who worked hard, succeeded and were recognised as successful too. I bring my experience of succeeding under commercial pressure, in high-intensity, face-paced environments to my work as a coach.

Specifically…

I am an EMCC Accredited Practitioner Coach with a background in Therapeutic Counselling, for which I am BACP Accredited.