
How do I know which programme is right for me?
The three programmes are distinct but complementary, and it will become clear as we talk on our Discovery call which is right for you. In a nutshell, the bespoke programme is free-form. We co-create the goal and work from there. Everyone is different; some people have a very specific goal in mind and only want 3-4 sessions, while others have more they would like to cover and want more. For this reason, there is no fixed package size for the bespoke programme.
The Thrive and Shape programmes are pre-defined modules, and we work through each in turn.
Why not try a free, no-commitment Discovery call to discuss further?
What is a Discovery call?
A Discovery call is a free half-hour chat. It is an opportunity for you to get to know me a little, get an idea of what working together might be like, and determine which programme is right for you.
For me, it is an opportunity to learn a little about where you are right now and where you would like to get to through coaching.
There is no hard sell; if, at the end of the call, you are not ready to make a decision, that is absolutely fine.
Finding a coach that is right for you is important, which is why I offer these sessions for free.
Do I have to have a formal diagnosis to be coached by you?
No. It is generally accepted within the neurodivergent community that self-identification should be as valid as a formal diagnosis. Society’s systems don’t necessarily view things the same way, but for the purposes of coaching, at least, I believe self-identification is enough. And let’s face it, with the waiting times as they are, you could be a while on the list for a diagnostic assessment.
I believe it is never too soon to start engaging actively. A formal diagnosis may form part of that journey, but it is not a prerequisite. If and when you do reach the top of the waiting list, this is only the beginning in any case. So why not get a jump start by booking a Discovery call and getting moving sooner?
How do I know if coaching is right for me?
That is a difficult one to answer. Each coach is different, just as each coachee is. Our Discovery call will go some way toward informing you, but it is not a coaching session, so it will be a case of trying it out to see. This is why there is no fixed commitment for the Bespoke sessions. It gives you an opportunity to try coaching without committing to many sessions. Many clients start with the idea of 6 sessions, but there is no hard-and-fast rule. Note, this is an unusual perspective! Many coaches will require you to commit to a minimum of 6 sessions, often paid up front. I do not believe this is reasonable. I believe it is more important you are working with the right coach for you, and that may take several sessions to recognise, but the last thing you want is to be locked into a relationship that is not working for you.
Overall, I would say a commitment to openness and honesty is vital if you are to get the most out of coaching. I create a safe and calm environment where you can be exactly that – and as any coach, I am bound by our confidentiality agreement. Ultimately, the more you engage with the process, the more you will get out of it.
That said, for some people, a lifetime of feeling like they don’t fit in means it can be difficult to feel safe. I am very aware of this, so I will not push you into conversations you do not yet feel safe to have.
What sort of topics can I bring to coaching?
You’re welcome to bring anything you’d like to explore from a fresh perspective. If you’re considering mentoring, it’s important to check that my area of expertise aligns with what you’re looking for. You can see some of the topics I have covered with clients in the past here, or read some of the testimonials.
That said, we will begin our first session by clarifying the boundaries between coaching and therapy. I am a coach and mentor, not a therapist, and it would be irresponsible and unprofessional of me to step outside my area of expertise. If we recognise that a topic is taking us across the boundary, we will discuss this and make adjustments accordingly.
Everyone is different in terms of what they bring to coaching. Some people have a very specific goal in mind and want only 3-4 sessions, while others have more they would like to cover and want more. For this reason, there is no fixed package size for the Bespoke programme.
How long are the sessions?
Coaching sessions last 60mins. This gives plenty of time to gain valuable insight without risking becoming over tired or overwhelmed.
How many sessions will I need?
Our first contact will be through a free half-hour Discovery call.
If you decide to work with me after this (you do not need to make this decision during our call), we will then agree on a programme payment schedule and a date for the first session.
There is no hard and fast rule. Everyone is different; some people have a very specific goal in mind and want only 3-4 sessions, while others have more they would like to cover and want more. For this reason, there is no fixed package size for the Bespoke programme.
Mentoring relationships are usually longer-term. I’ve written a blog that explains the differences and benefits of coaching and mentoring, as this can influence the length and nature of our work together.
The modular programmes are a fixed duration, but the duration of the Bespoke package is dictated by you.
Many clients prefer to book the same time/day for each session, as following a pattern helps frame the relationship. However, I recognise that we all have busy lives, and this may not always be possible. In these circumstances, we may instead schedule the next session at the end of each session and proceed from there.
When the Thrive or Shape programmes end, you can book bespoke sessions, subject to my availability. We can also discuss retainers if this feels a more appropriate arrangement.
Do you offer a sliding scale for payment?
Yes, and the scale exists to help as many people as possible access coaching, while also ensuring my practice is sustainable.
As a guideline:
Full rate – Household income about £60k = £115 per hour*
Mid rate – Household income between £40-60k per year = £100*
Supported rate – household income under £40k per year = £60*
Rest assured, I will not ask you about your earning specifics, nor will I require proof. This scale is based around trust.
I also accept Access to Work payment (UK grant system). Contact me to agree on the specifics, as I appreciate that payment schedules with A2W can be difficult.
* Note that the fixed programmes (Thrive and Shape) will also be discounted for the mid and supported rates. Please contact me to discuss options for this.
Do you coach people who are not neurodivergent?
While the Thrive and Shape programmes are focused on neurodivergent needs, you do not need to be neurodivergent to benefit from them. The content encourages wellness and reflection and, if you are a carer, partner, or parent of a neurodivergent person, these programmes can be particularly beneficial – you will not only gain greater insight into their lived experience but also learn ways to better support them day-to-day.
The Bespoke coaching programme is entirely driven by you – your goals shape the focus, pace and number of the sessions. As a wife and mum, and having worked in the corporate world and been self-employed, I have a wealth of experience which you can draw on should you wish mentoring to be part of our relationship.
