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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Transformational Coaching?2016-05-30T15:27:13+00:00

Transformational coaching is a powerful, collaborative relationship that, through a process of inquiry, discovery, goal-setting and strategic action, enables the realization of extraordinary results and sustained behavioural change.

Why should I choose to work with a coach?2021-03-02T19:28:55+00:00

A professional, certified coach inspires you to clarify your goals and empowers you to pursue them without getting in your own way. It is a process of discovery with a trusted person where you learn to deal with your daily challenges in new ways. A coach can perceive the patterns that you may not, and assist you to transform negative patterns into positive ones to open up existing potential.

Coaching gives you clarity around your life’s direction and connects you to the beliefs, values and goals that will steer you there. It is not therapy or counselling, and it is not about retelling old stories that hold you back. Coaching looks forward to where you want to go.

What is the methodology?2021-03-02T19:28:55+00:00

The goals of each coaching conversation are to assist you in (1) promoting self-discovery, (2) establishing achievable goals, (3) determining a course of action, and (4) empowering you to achieve your goals.

Through a process of inquiry, discovery, and goal setting, we will co-create strategic action which will support you to achieve the goals you identify.  In some situations, specific assessments or experiential exercises may be incorporated.

How long would I work with a coach?2021-03-02T19:28:55+00:00

Typically, we would work together for six to eight months to increase your performance. The first month of coaching will likely focus on discovery and clarification, and may include various assessments.  Based on the assessments, we will develop an action plan and targets of accountability. We will most typically meet 2-3 times a month (once every 2 weeks) for 1 hour in person or over the phone.

What are the professional standards for the coaching industry?2016-05-30T15:27:39+00:00

There is a code of ethics, core competencies, accreditation processes and a global association, the International Coach Federation, that promotes the advancement of coaches. To learn more click on the link: http://www.coachfederation.org/ICF/

Why choose an ICF credentialed coach?2016-05-30T15:27:47+00:00

The International Coaching Federation requires that its members receive coach-specific training, have completed a designated number of experience hours and been coached by a Mentor Coach. ICF Members must also adhere to strict ethical guidelines.  When you work with an ICF-credentialed coach, you are assured that your coach has met these professional standards and you can rely on her expertise.

How will I know you are the right coach for me?2016-05-30T15:27:55+00:00

During our initial conversations and/or discovery session, together we will identify if this is an appropriate fit. Before you decide, you’ll have a sample of what the coaching experience will be like. Until then, click on my About Astara page to learn more about me and my approach to coaching.

How do I get started in the coaching process?
2016-05-30T15:28:00+00:00

If you are interested in exploring the coaching process, please contact me via phone at (403) 874-6463 or email me at tarra@astaracoaching.com. We can schedule an initial discovery session to further discuss the details of the coaching relationship, and whether you think it would work well for you.

What can I expect from you as my coach?2016-05-30T15:28:05+00:00

You can expect me to:

  • Be a partner supporting you in being your best self
  • Provide encouragement and support in a safe environment in which you can relax and explore
  • Respect the confidentiality of the agreements we make
  • Expand your view of what is possible and promote discovery of new insights
  • Act with integrity, giving you honest feedback and input
  • Listen carefully to what you say and ask questions that increase awareness, opens new possibilities, and offers new perspectives
  • Be an on-going resource for you in accomplishing your intentions, and celebrating with you when you achieve your goals
What is my responsibility in the coaching process?2021-03-02T19:28:55+00:00

I expect you to:

  • Be committed to your goals and vision.  Take the time to examine what you want and need, and determine goals that are truly meaningful to you
  • Make a commitment to yourself to complete your action plan each week by experimenting with new approaches and behaviours
  • Make your coaching session a priority in your schedule; come to the session prepared with what you want to discuss
  • By starting a coaching arrangement with me you are indicating that you are willing to do and be your best.  This is a personal investment of your resources and demands your best work.  If you aren’t doing your best, I will ask you to, and encourage you to be accountable to yourself
What if I feel I need additional Support? Can I contact you in-between our scheduled coaching sessions?2016-05-30T15:28:18+00:00

Yes! You may call me between our sessions if you would like support on something that comes up in between our meetings or can’t wait to share a success with me. I do have time between our regular calls to speak with you, if needed. I enjoy providing this extra level of service. I do not bill for extra time of this type, but I ask that you keep extra calls to 5 or 10 minutes, please. You may also email any time.  I also love receiving emails between sessions letting me know of your successes and reached goals!

What if I sign up for this and decide it is not right for me? Do you have a money back guarantee?2016-05-30T15:28:25+00:00

I only require that you pay for actual value you believe has been delivered. If for any reason you feel that you received less value than you are invoiced, I simply ask that you pay what the service was worth to you and kindly include a note letting me know how I could serve you better. 
To honor the coaching agreement and the coaching process, if you sign up and do not show up for your coaching sessions, do not do the follow up work, etc., then full payment will be required.

What if I need to reschedule my appointment?2021-03-02T19:28:55+00:00

It’s easy.  With at least 24 hours notice, you can reschedule any appointment by contacting me by phone (403) 874-6463, email, tarra@astaracoaching.com, or using the on-line calendaring system.  If cancelling on-line, just follow these steps:

  1. Click on the Calendar Link at the top, center of this webpage
  2. Locate blocks of “Available” time (these are represented by light blue blocks)
  3. Locate your current appointment and click on the title of the appointment (this will open an editing screen)
  4. Click on the “Edit” button and change the details of the appointment to correspond with an “Available” block of time.
  5. The calendar will update itself, you’ll see your new appointment reflected, and I will receive an email notification letting me know of the change.
How do I easily make my payments for my coaching services?2016-06-01T18:02:53+00:00

Each month you’ll receive an invoice from my practice letting you know the amount committed to for that month.  You can (1) mail a check to the remit to address located right on the invoice (2) send an on-line interact transfer to my email address tarra@astaracoaching.com

 

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