What is coaching?
The word coach first appeared in the 16th century and referred to the horse-drawn carriages created and used in the Hungarian town of Kocs’. In the 1800’s the term coach was used by Oxford University to describe tutors who “carried” students through an exam. Then in the mid-1800’s the word was associated with the world of sports to describe a coach “carrying” an athlete forward. Now coaches carry people forward in every sphere: business, art, music, education, public speaking, and ministry. The image of a carriage provides an apt picture of the coaching profession. Whereas counseling generally looks down and back with a person so they may heal and move on, coaching looks out and in to carry a person forward. It helps bridge the gap between where a person is now and where they want to be in the future.
What is coaching like?
It is a partnership that will inspire you to reach your personal and professional potential. I only take clients by invitation or referral and once we agree to work together, we first establish a coaching contract that defines our coaching relationship (frequency of meetings, duration of contract, responsibilities of each party, fees, confidentiality, and schedule). Then we identify your desired goals, outcomes, and results and create a safe and supportive environment for achieving them. I have designed simple forms to help you get the most out of each session and to evaluate your progress and our relationship. Lastly, as you achieve results we celebrate them together.
What are your credentials?
I am a professional coach and the president of By Design Coaching, LLC. I have completed over 150 hours of coach training and over 500 hours of coaching to earn the Associate Certified Coach credential from the International Coach Federation. I also bring over twenty-five years of pastoral leadership experience with me having served churches in NY, MA, MD, and PA. I also hold a Bachelor’s in Music and a Master’s in Divinity. I currently live in Philadelphia with my wife and children.
How does the coaching relationship work?
- Coaching contracts are generally 6-12 months
- Coaching sessions are 2 x 50 minutes or 3 x 30 minutes per month
- Coaching fees are determined by the parameters of the contract
What would be the next step?
If you or someone you know would be interested you can call or email me for a complimentary discovery session. I will block out 30 minutes, create a powerful coaching experience, and then you can determine if you would like to work with me. Only if it is a clear “yes” and a good fit will we talk “logistics.” No pressure, no obligation.