Frequently Asked Questions
Find the answers to common questions below. If you can’t find your question below feel free to reach out here. The coaching agreement all clients sign before starting coaching sessions also outlines many of these questions in more detail.
How is coaching different from counseling or therapy?
Coaching is forward-oriented and client-centric, focusing on goals and accountability, whether that be pushing yourself to reach a new goal, focusing on reducing activities to dramatically slow down, or anywhere in between. Therapy is focused on mental health, emotions, and the past to understand the present, and it works more with developing skills for managing emotions, dealing with the past, and addressing trauma.
Are our sessions confidential?
Yes, coaching is confidential as laid out in the ICF Code of Ethics. What this means: any identifiable information will never be shared without your consent. However, please be aware that the Coach-Client relationship is not considered a legally confidential relationship (like the medical and legal professions) and thus communications are not subject to the protection of any legally recognized privilege.
Can I share what we talked about with a friend?
Absolutely, you may share what you’re personally working on with a friend. Referrals are also appreciated!
What is your cancellation / rescheduling fee?
Life happens, sometimes requiring a change of plans. A 2 hour rescheduling notice is required, and any session can be rescheduled up to 2 times free of charge.
Do you accept insurance or HSA / HRA / FSA cards?
Unfortunately, individual coaching is not typically covered under insurance or HSA plans. If necessary, we can work to find a place for you on a need-based sliding scale. Ask about the sliding scale during your consultation session.
My employer may be able to pay for the coaching sessions, but it requires additional paperwork. Is this a problem?
Great! Working with your company’s legal or contract groups to establish a coaching contract is not a problem.
What if Video Conferencing / Zoom doesn’t work for me?
While we can do coaching sessions via the phone, video conferencing is far more effective. Finding a quiet place where you can be uninterrupted and on video allows us to make the most of our time together.
What are your coaching credentials?
I am an ACC (Associate Certified Coach) through the International Coaching Federation (ICF). I carefully follow the ICF code of conduct, ethics, and standards. ICF-ACC represents a minimum of 60 training hours, 100 practicum hours,10 supervised coaching hours, a performance evaluation, and a final credentialing exam. My many years of ad-hoc training courses in addition to my formal coach education include leadership, education, and coaching courses through Harvard’s Center for Medical Simulation, the University of Kansas, Story Enneagram, and The Landmark Forum.
Stephanie Swanson Coaching 