Q & A with Coach Carissa

What is life coaching?

Working with a life coach is about discovering and nurturing your core values, natural talents, and passions. My style of coaching helps people develop or get back in touch with their intuition. It is supportive, inspiring, and transformational.

“I like to describe coaching as super rad and totally revolutionary. It is incredible to have a space to discuss what you are working on, and to have a skilled person help you move towards the positive in your life.” -E.G., Client

What does a coach do?

My job is to connect people to themselves, and to each other – to fiercely and gently nurture your inner knowing and personal power.

There’s a place inside you that knows exactly what is right for you. Unfortunately there can be times when you can’t hear it or don’t follow its guidance. When you get off-track (or don’t even know what your track is) life can suck. But when you’re “on track” and expressing your values, talents, and passions, life is good! That’s my work as a coach – to help you get to a place where your life rocks.

“I am amazed how after each call with Carissa I am immediately taking action and doing something to change my life for the better. Coaching has brought me into greater alignment with my truth and has increased my self-awareness. I am living in synch with myself and doing what feels right for myself on a daily basis. Thank you for this gift Carissa!” J.C., Client

How does coaching work?

Everyone has things they want to change about their life, goals they want to accomplish, or dreams they want to make real. As a life coach I support you in that process, and help you to be that which you truly are.

I create a supportive relationship that focuses on helping you reach your goals, solve problems, and make the most of your potential. I will assist you in moving through barriers, obstacles or circumstances, internal or external, that prevent you from achieving your goals.

“Carissa is able to zero in on the issue at hand and move me right through it. In a matter of minutes I am brought to a place of clarity, amazement and empowerment.” J.C.

Coaching sessions are 50 minutes, and done over the phone. Sessions are scheduled weekly or twice monthly. I ask clients to begin with a 12 session commitment, as this is often the minimum amount of time needed for change to be integrated. The coaching relationship begins with a two hour, in-depth self discovery process called the Foundation Session.

As a client, you identify goals and areas of focus for the coaching work. There are homework assignments every week, and each session includes reviewing your progress toward your goals. The structure of regular weekly sessions provides accountability and accelerates change.

“I’ve heard coaching is like paying a friend to listen to your problems, but I disagree. Carissa has a clear idea of what is healthy and unhealthy, which I appreciate. Also, she has clearly defined ideas on how to solve particular problems. She holds me accountable in realistic measures.” -S.M., Client

What issues and goals can I address through coaching?

  • Transitions: Making the most out of life transitions (often career or relationship changes)
  • Intuition: Identifying your true needs, desires, and direction
  • Career and workplace issues: Identifying your ideal career path & achieving healthy work/life balance
  • Creativity: Integrating creativity into your life and accomplishing your creative goals
  • Power: Rediscovering your most powerful self
  • Sensitivity: Understanding and honoring your sensitivity
  • Queerness: Supporting gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning (GLBTQ) folks & those addressing gender issues
  • Spirituality: Supporting your spiritual growth
  • Health: Changing your habits to increase wellness

How is coaching different from therapy?

Coaching is like architecture, therapy is like archeology.
Coaching and therapy can complement each other, however, coaching is not therapy. Coaching focuses on designing the life you want to live, and helping you reach your full potential. Coaching does not attempt to explore your past, identify mental health issues, or heal deep emotional wounds. If deeper emotional issues come up in our sessions, I will encourage you to address those in therapy.

How do I get started with coaching?

Call or email to schedule a free 30 minute consultation. In the consultation, we’ll discuss what issues you’d like help with and how coaching could support you. If we decide to work together, we will schedule a two-hour foundation session. I’ll send you a coaching agreement in advance of the Foundation Session.

How much does coaching cost?

$400 a month for 4 sessions a month
$200 a month for 2 sessions a month
The initial Foundation Session is $125.

Payments are made monthly or in one lump sum.
Sliding scale rates are available based on need.