
How do I know which programme is right for me?
The three programmes are distinct but complementary, and it will become clearer as we talk on our Discovery call which is right for you. In a nutshell, Thrive and Shape are pre-defined programmes, and we work through the modules in turn. The bespoke programme is free form. We co-create the goal and go from there.
Why not try a free, no-commitment Discovery call to discuss your needs 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 diagnosis list.
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 and book a Discovery call and get moving sooner?
How do I know if coaching is right for me?
That is a difficult one to answer. Each coach is different in the same way that each coachee is different. Our Discovery call will go some way to informing you, but a Discovery call is not a coaching session, so it will be a case of trying it out to see. This is why the Bespoke sessions are booked in groups of 3, to give you an opportunity to try out coaching without committing to lots of sessions.
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 a 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 neurodivergent people, a lifetime of feeling like we don’t fit in means it can be difficult to feel safe, and 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.
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 the boundary is becoming blurred, we can discuss this and make adjustments accordingly.
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.
I suggest a minimum of 6 sessions to ensure you can embed your learning, but there is no hard and fast rule.
Mentoring relationships are usually longer-term. I’ve written a blog that explains the differences and benefits of coaching versus 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 will schedule the next session at the end of each session and proceed from there.
When a programme ends, you can book one-off sessions further down the line, subject to my availability. We can also discuss retainers if this feels a more appropriate arrangement.
I have Access to Work funding, can I pay you this way?
Absolutely, Access to Work is an excellent way to fund specialist support. Contact me to agree on the specifics, as I appreciate that payment schedules with A2W can be difficult.
Do you coach people who are not neurodivergent?
I coach anyone seeking deeper insight into what drives their choices and decisions. My area of expertise is in supporting neurodivergent individuals and those people who want to better understand and support neurodivergent loved ones or colleagues.
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 and pace 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.