What even IS coaching?

What even is coaching?

If you’re curious, this week I thought I’d share the FAQ from my website about what coaching is, who it’s for, and how it works.

Any less frequently asked questions, let me know!

What is coaching?

Coaching is a structured, goal-oriented conversation that helps you think clearly, act with intention, and lead more effectively. It’s not advice-giving or therapy - it’s a thoughtful, discussion based partnership focused on helping you move forward.

What kinds of issues can we work on?

Clients bring a wide range of topics: navigating change, stepping into bigger leadership roles, dealing with tricky dynamics, making tough decisions, building influence, improving wellbeing, or just getting unstuck. If it’s to do with your work and/or how work impacts your life, and it matters to you, it belongs in coaching.

How does a coaching session work?

Each session begins by clarifying what you want to focus on. From there, we explore your thinking, identify patterns, and uncover insights. You’ll leave with greater clarity and practical next steps. Sessions are typically held online or by phone, or in person by arrangement (I’m based in Sydney).

What makes coaching successful?

The key ingredients are trust, curiosity, and commitment. The more open and honest you are, the more useful the coaching will be. Progress builds session by session; it’s not instant, but it’s powerful.

What is my role in the coaching, and what is yours?

My role is to listen deeply, ask the right questions, and help you see things from new angles. Yours is to bring your real-world challenges, reflect honestly, and take action between sessions. Coaching works best when you’re willing to think hard and follow through.

How long does coaching take?

Coaching engagements usually run over 6–12 months. Individual sessions are usually 60 minutes, although we can book in shorter or longer sessions as needed. The pace is flexible but often works best every 2 to 8 weeks.

Who is coaching for?

Coaching is for people who are ready to think deeply, challenge themselves, and take ownership of their growth. I work with senior leaders, executives, and professionals across a range of sectors and seniorities in Australia, Asia Pacific and globally.

Who isn’t coaching for?

Coaching isn’t for everyone. It’s not the right fit or the right time if you’re looking for someone to give you all the answers, fix other people, or deliver a training course. It also isn’t a substitute for therapy. If you’re working through trauma, mental health issues, or need emotional healing, a qualified clinician is a better choice - whether alongside or instead of the coaching. I won’t work with you on the mental health challenges but regularly work with people who are separately getting mental health support. Coaching works best when you’re ready to reflect, experiment, and take responsibility for your own growth.

Is coaching confidential?

Yes. Everything we discuss in your sessions is confidential unless I need to disclose it for safety reasons - and if that ever happened, I’d make every effort to discuss it with you first. For organisation-sponsored coaching, I may meet with stakeholders to understand context, but always with transparency to you. Session content remains private unless you choose to share it.

Who gets involved?

If your organisation is sponsoring the coaching, we may hold an alignment meeting with your leader or HR to clarify goals. I might also speak with a few stakeholders if that’s helpful - always with your agreement. Sessions themselves are between you and me. And if you’re self-funding, you’re the only person involved.

How is coaching regulated?

Coaching is a self regulated profession. Unfortunately that means anyone can hang out their shingle and call themselves a coach. Beware of “coaches” who haven’t done rigorous training and who aren’t credentialed with a well recognised association.

I’m an accredited organisational coach with the Institute of Executive Coaching & Leadership and credentialed at the PCC level with the International Coaching Federation (ICF), the leading global body for professional coaching. I follow the ICF Code of Ethics, including strict standards around confidentiality, professional boundaries, and continuing development.

If that’s something you’d like to get stuck in to, drop me a note.

Until next week,

Madeleine

I help accomplished professionals untangle difficult career questions so they can thrive in work and life.

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