FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answered by Coach Carmen
What is the difference between working with a coach vs. therapist?
Coaching is a partnership where we focus on your thoughts, feelings, and actions to overcome limiting beliefs and set intentional steps toward your goals. Coaching is practical, forward-thinking, and about creating meaningful change through clarity, values-based decision-making, and purposeful action—one step at a time.
Therapy, on the other hand, often explores past experiences to understand and resolve emotional or psychological challenges. Therapists are licensed to diagnose and treat mental health issues, emotional disorders, and trauma.
Both coaching and therapy play important roles in personal growth and overall wellness, each supporting transformation in unique ways. If you are working with both a coach and a therapist, it’s helpful to keep both practitioners informed
Do I have a chance to ask questions before I invest in life coaching?
Yes! I invite you to schedule a complimentary 30-minute virtual discovery meeting to explore the transformative power of life coaching. The conversation will uncover any questions you have about the process and provide me, the coach, insight what you are looking for. This is a mutual opportunity to determine if we (coach and client) are a good fit for a coaching partnership.
What can I expect in a coaching session?
It all starts with a conversation to see what's on your mind or any topics you'd like to explore. No preparation needed. I guide you with curiosity, insight, and thoughtful questions to uncover patterns, blind spots, and opportunities you might not see on your own. Together, we explore mindset, habits, and thought patterns in a safe, non-judgmental space, helping you gain clarity and see all angles.
You will leave with actionable steps and helpful tools to practice, supporting you in creating shifts that feel aligned with who you truly are.
What can I expect in a coaching workshop?
I offer small group coaching workshops designed as curated experiences to help you reconnect with yourself. These coaching workshops provide a space to pause, listen to your inner voice, and explore reflective exercises that spark insight and growth.
Supportive, interactive, and practical, the workshops give you tools and strategies you can carry into your daily life. Participation is guided by your comfort, allowing you to engage at your own pace.
Why work with a life coach?
Clients benefit from life coaching in numerous ways, including self-discovery, increased confidence, mindset shifts, and improved emotional regulation. Together, we will identify and overcome the patterns and thoughts that have been blocking your progress, leading to breakthroughs in achieving your goals. As your coach, I will be your dedicated partner, providing accountability and support to help you stay on track. A study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology found that participants who received coaching showed higher levels of goal attainment compared to those who did not receive coaching.
Why choose Illuminating Coaching?
Clients choose me for my heart-centered compassion, curiosity, and ability to see strengths in others. I bring lived experience, coaching expertise, and spiritual awareness. I’m soft yet challenge when it matters, helping you gain clarity, push past limits, and reconnect with yourself.
I guide clients to step into their own leadership, take meaningful action, and create a life that truly fits them.
What should I do if something in the coaching process isn't working for me?
ButtonAt Illuminating Coaching, I value honesty and transparency.
If something isn’t working, please share your thoughts openly. I will do my best to accommodate your needs.
Let's Connect
Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your transformational journey.


