FAQs

Coaching draws upon a variety of approaches and principles, influenced by disciplines such as social psychology, adult learning, neuroscience, and psychotherapy. It supports personal development and provides a flexible, collaborative space for individuals to gain self-awareness and work towards meaningful growth. Whether the focus is on specific goals or deeper personal insight, it can be a valuable tool for positive change.

After graduating in 2000, I began my career in creative and administrative roles before training as an English Language teacher. I went on to work in international colleges in New Zealand, before returning to the UK in 2006 to complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Post-Compulsory Education.

For the last 20 years I have held various roles in education, leadership and management across the charitable and adult and higher education sectors, designing curriculum for a range of subject areas and working with partners and stakeholders. I have co-created leadership and staff development programmes and delivered bespoke training. I worked with Exeter UNESCO City to co-design their Introduction to Biblio-Counselling Skills Programme, quality checked by the NCPS.

In addition to the qualifications and training listed below, I commit to completing 32 hours of Continuing Professional Development every year (in line with the requirements of the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC)).

Qualifications and training:

MA (PGDip completed; dissertation pending) in Coaching & Mentoring (EMCC Accredited), Oxford Brookes University | 2024–2026

Certificate in Counselling, Heartwood Counselling & Psychotherapy College (NCPS quality checked) | 2023

Women's Leadership Programme, Saïd Business School, University of Oxford | 2021

Postgraduate Certificate in Post-Compulsory Education, University of Exeter | 2007

City & Guilds English Tutor Specialist Qualification | 2007

CertTESOL (Trinity College London) | 2003

BA (Hons) Communication & Design (2:1), London Metropolitan University | 2000

While coaching and counselling share similarities in providing supportive spaces for personal growth, they differ in their focus and approach, though there can be some overlap. The following is a simplified explanation that may help you work out what you need at this time:

Coaching is typically present and future-oriented, focusing on exploring options and taking actionable steps, often to achieve specific outcomes. It's designed to help you build self-awareness and make progress in personal or professional areas. The emphasis is on where you are now and where you want to be.

Counselling often explores past experiences and emotional difficulties, such as trauma and loss. It provides therapeutic support aimed at healing and understanding these experiences, helping individuals process emotions and gain insight.

The overlap between the two is that coaching can sometimes touch on past experiences if they are relevant to defining and achieving future goals, and counselling can incorporate forward-looking strategies for growth. The key difference lies in the primary focus: coaching is more action-oriented, while counselling centres on emotional healing and resolution. It is the ethical responsibility of your coach to manage the boundary between the two professions.

Six sessions tends to be a common starting point and a natural endpoint for focused work in coaching, usually held once a fortnight or once a month. That said, it really depends on what you want to focus on — some people benefit from fewer sessions, others prefer to continue beyond six. We can talk this through in your free initial consultation. You can either book a block of sessions or pay as you go.

Yes. Everything shared in our sessions is held in complete confidence and will not be disclosed without your consent. There are two exceptions to this: where disclosure is required by law, or where there are specific safeguarding concerns. These exceptions will be explained during our first session. As an EMCC member I abide by their code of ethics, which includes clear guidance on confidentiality and professional practice.

The initial consultation is a free 20-minute online conversation. It’s a chance for us to meet, for you to share a little about what's bringing you to coaching, and to discuss any questions you might have.

There is no obligation to proceed and no pressure to decide on the spot. The most important thing is that you feel it's the right fit for you.

Sessions usually happen online but if you would like to meet in person, please let me know. I’m based near Exeter in Devon. 

Feeling at ease in the relationship is vital for the coaching process. While the content of some sessions may be challenging, you should always feel supported. I welcome feedback at all stages of the process so please do let me know if anything doesn't feel right for you.

If you are unable to attend a session, please give 24 hours' notice. Cancellations after this will be subject to the full fee.

If you wish to stop sessions altogether, you are free to do so at any time, again with 24 hours' notice.

If you engage in coaching with me, you will receive a contract where all this is carefully explained and you will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

My fees are £80 per hour or £450 for 6 sessions.

I keep a small number of pro bono spaces for people who are referred to me through local charities or community organisations — please contact me directly if this applies to you.

Yes – please contact me directly to discuss.