You may have seen videos or articles claiming that coaching is a scam. But what if I told you that coaching—when done properly—is one of the most empowering tools for personal growth and transformation? As someone with years of coaching experience, first in the world of dance and now in holistic life and mental health coaching, I want to set the record straight. Coaching is not about telling people what to do; it’s about partnering with them to unlock their potential and create the life they truly want.

If you’ve ever wondered whether coaching is legitimate, what it involves, and how it could help you, this is for you.

Therapy vs. Coaching: Which Do You Need?

A common question people ask is whether they need therapy or coaching. The answer lies in the focus and approach of each.

Therapy tends to focus on the past. It helps you process trauma, understand why you are the way you are, and heal emotional wounds. Therapy is invaluable for those needing to address deep-seated issues and make sense of their history.

Coaching, on the other hand, is forward-focused. It starts from where you are now and works toward where you want to go. It’s about setting goals, overcoming obstacles, and taking actionable steps to build a brighter future. A good coach will also help you explore whether coaching or therapy is more appropriate for you at this stage. Personally, I offer a free initial call to ensure that coaching is the right fit for your needs. If I believe therapy would serve you better, I’ll say so—because your wellbeing comes first.

Coaching Is a Partnership

Coaching isn’t about having someone tell you what to do or dictating your life choices. It’s a partnership where you call the shots. As a coach, my role is to team up with you, expand your ways of thinking, and provide insights you may not have considered.

Coming from a background in dance coaching, I’ve learned that the principles of coaching are universal. Whether you’re learning a dance routine or transforming your life, the process is the same:

1. You decide the direction.
2. I help you stay on track by providing “guardrails” (which could include new techniques and tools for you) and my job is ensuring your goals remain in focus.
3. With your permission, I share new perspectives or strategies that could enhance your journey.

You remain in full control of your choices and your path. Coaching simply ensures you don’t lose sight of the bigger picture and equips you with the tools to navigate challenges along the way.

Think about how often you’ve wanted advice from friends or family but hesitated because you weren’t sure who to trust. A coach offers an unbiased, non-judgmental perspective with one goal in mind: helping you achieve what you want. It’s like hiring a teammate whose sole purpose is your success.

From Surviving to Thriving

My journey to becoming a holistic life and mental health coach wasn’t a straight path. I’ve experienced abuse, anxiety, and struggles with self-worth. For years, I knew why I felt the way I did—therapy helped me understand that—but knowing wasn’t enough.

I wanted more than understanding; I wanted change. I wanted to take ownership of my story and turn my pain into purpose. That’s what led me to coaching. I discovered that when we focus on the future and take actionable steps, we can create lives that are not only meaningful but also fulfilling.

My own challenges taught me how interconnected all areas of life are. Anxiety, for example, didn’t just affect my mental health; it impacted my physical health, relationships, and even my ability to care for myself. This holistic understanding is why I became a certified Health Coach, Mental Health Coach, Metabolic Nutrition Coach, and Life Coach. I wanted to support others from all angles, knowing that addressing one area of life often creates a ripple effect in others.

Why Coaching Works

Coaching works because it’s tailored to you. It’s not about generic advice or one-size-fits-all solutions. It’s about helping you:

• Focus on the future: Identify what you want and create a plan to get there.
• Gain a fresh perspective: See possibilities you may not have considered.
• Stay accountable: Ensure you keep moving toward your goals, even when life gets challenging.
• Address multiple areas of life: Health, relationships, career, and personal growth are all connected. Coaching takes a holistic approach to ensure lasting change.
• Become your own best coach: Ultimately, the goal is to equip you with tools and strategies so you can continue thriving long after our sessions.

Coaching also recognizes that you’re the expert in your own life. You know your values, your desires, and what feels right for you. My role is to provide guidance, offer insights, and support you in making decisions that align with your goals.

Are You Ready to Take Control?

If you’re ready to own where you are at now and take steps toward a brighter future, coaching might be for you. It’s not about quick fixes or magic solutions—it’s about doing the work, making intentional choices, and rediscovering your power.

Whether you want to rekindle the vision of the life you once dreamed of or create an entirely new one, I’m here to help you get there. You’re in the driver’s seat, and I’m here to guide, support, and empower you along the way.

And if I feel therapy would benefit you more at this stage, I’ll ensure you know that, too. My commitment is to do no harm and to serve you in the way that’s best for your growth and healing.

Your future is yours to create. Let’s work together to make it extraordinary.