Life Coaching Counselling in Merrylands, NSW

Photo of Bulent Bill Ada, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member, Psychologist
Bulent Bill Ada
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merrylands, NSW 2160
I offer a supportive space for personal discovery and growth, to enhance mental wellbeing and life quality.
My ideal client is committed to personal growth and eager to engage in therapy for issues like anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, or relationship difficulties. They seek a safe, therapeutic space to explore emotions and build resilience. Utilising CBT, ACT, EMDR, DBT, and Schema Therapy, I guide them to develop practical coping skills and challenge unhelpful thought patterns. Their goals include overcoming mental health challenges and enhancing relationships. Motivated by a desire for a fulfilling life, they value the transformative journey that our integrated, evidence-based approaches facilitate towards lasting wellbeing.
I offer a supportive space for personal discovery and growth, to enhance mental wellbeing and life quality.
My ideal client is committed to personal growth and eager to engage in therapy for issues like anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, or relationship difficulties. They seek a safe, therapeutic space to explore emotions and build resilience. Utilising CBT, ACT, EMDR, DBT, and Schema Therapy, I guide them to develop practical coping skills and challenge unhelpful thought patterns. Their goals include overcoming mental health challenges and enhancing relationships. Motivated by a desire for a fulfilling life, they value the transformative journey that our integrated, evidence-based approaches facilitate towards lasting wellbeing.
(02) 7804 4915 View (02) 7804 4915
Photo of Alison Bausse, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Alison Bausse
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Merrylands, NSW 2160
I am a Psychologist with over 13 years experience in working with people across a wide range of issues. I am passionate about helping people to find a way to address these difficulties and barriers that they feel are holding them back in life. I specifically enjoy working with those presenting with mood disorders, low self esteem, relationship difficulties, infidelity and parenting but am not limited to these areas in relation to expertise. I am warm, empathetic and non judgmental and strive to create a safe space to explore difficult issues. A positive experience of therapy is my goal for you.
I am a Psychologist with over 13 years experience in working with people across a wide range of issues. I am passionate about helping people to find a way to address these difficulties and barriers that they feel are holding them back in life. I specifically enjoy working with those presenting with mood disorders, low self esteem, relationship difficulties, infidelity and parenting but am not limited to these areas in relation to expertise. I am warm, empathetic and non judgmental and strive to create a safe space to explore difficult issues. A positive experience of therapy is my goal for you.
(02) 8294 7467 View (02) 8294 7467
Photo of Tanya Riebel, MACPA Assoc, Psychologist
Tanya Riebel
Psychologist, MACPA Assoc
Verified Verified
Merrylands, NSW 2160
My mission is to provide a voice to those who feel unheard, helping them discover personal insights and practical solutions for a more fulfilling life.
I’m a registered psychologist in Parramatta deeply passionate about working with adolescents and adults on their journey to greater wellbeing. I believe in viewing my clients holistically, recognizing their unique perspectives as valuable contributors to their growth and development. My mission is to provide a voice to those who feel unheard, helping them discover personal insights and practical solutions for a more fulfilling life. I am experienced in working with adult populations dealing with depression, anxiety, and stress related to work or studies.
My mission is to provide a voice to those who feel unheard, helping them discover personal insights and practical solutions for a more fulfilling life.
I’m a registered psychologist in Parramatta deeply passionate about working with adolescents and adults on their journey to greater wellbeing. I believe in viewing my clients holistically, recognizing their unique perspectives as valuable contributors to their growth and development. My mission is to provide a voice to those who feel unheard, helping them discover personal insights and practical solutions for a more fulfilling life. I am experienced in working with adult populations dealing with depression, anxiety, and stress related to work or studies.
(02) 9630 0451 View (02) 9630 0451
Photo of Jonathan Righetti, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Jonathan Righetti
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrylands, NSW 2160
I have a particular focus on helping people find a healthy balance to life through incorporating a holistic approach—exploring the connection between our mind, body and spirit; family dynamics and how our childhood and home environment play a role in who we are today; the importance of self-awareness/self-compassion & gaining insight into our core beliefs.
I enjoy establishing an authentic relationship by means of an unconventional therapeutic process when working with people of all ages and backgrounds. I provide a compassionate and insightful approach to therapy as I journey with you through a variety of challenges you may face. Our life experiences, positive or negative, are building blocks for who we are today and can be effective tools in creating who we aspire to be tomorrow. I believe that with the right tools, empathic support, and personal determination, we can live life with confidence and become the best version of ourselves.
I have a particular focus on helping people find a healthy balance to life through incorporating a holistic approach—exploring the connection between our mind, body and spirit; family dynamics and how our childhood and home environment play a role in who we are today; the importance of self-awareness/self-compassion & gaining insight into our core beliefs.
I enjoy establishing an authentic relationship by means of an unconventional therapeutic process when working with people of all ages and backgrounds. I provide a compassionate and insightful approach to therapy as I journey with you through a variety of challenges you may face. Our life experiences, positive or negative, are building blocks for who we are today and can be effective tools in creating who we aspire to be tomorrow. I believe that with the right tools, empathic support, and personal determination, we can live life with confidence and become the best version of ourselves.
(02) 7804 4773 View (02) 7804 4773
Photo of Helen Ng, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Helen Ng
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrylands, NSW 2160
I am a caring and compassionate multilingual psychologist fluent in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. I work with all age groups and address a wide range of psychological issues, including adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, phobias, mood and thinking disorders, psychosis, life transitions, identity and self-esteem, relationships, cross-cultural challenges, and work-related concerns. I also provide career coaching, pre/post-marriage counselling, parenting advice, Christian counselling, and cognitive assessments.
I am a caring and compassionate multilingual psychologist fluent in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. I work with all age groups and address a wide range of psychological issues, including adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, phobias, mood and thinking disorders, psychosis, life transitions, identity and self-esteem, relationships, cross-cultural challenges, and work-related concerns. I also provide career coaching, pre/post-marriage counselling, parenting advice, Christian counselling, and cognitive assessments.
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Photo of Nick Cherrie, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Nick Cherrie
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Merrylands, NSW 2160
I'm a registered Psychologist, and primarily utilise CBT and interpersonal therapy to assist clients with a range of mental health concerns, from relationship problems, to work and study stressors, to anxiety or depression.
I'm a registered Psychologist, and primarily utilise CBT and interpersonal therapy to assist clients with a range of mental health concerns, from relationship problems, to work and study stressors, to anxiety or depression.
(02) 7804 4981 View (02) 7804 4981
Photo of Gissia Castelnoble, MA, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.	, Psychologist
Gissia Castelnoble
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Merrylands, NSW 2160
I am an educational and developmental psychologist with a particular interest in childhood, adolescent, and adult mental health, resilience building, and positive well-being. I practise from my clinic and provide specialised support to clients of all ages, empowering them to work through and achieve their treatment goals in a caring and safe environment.
I am an educational and developmental psychologist with a particular interest in childhood, adolescent, and adult mental health, resilience building, and positive well-being. I practise from my clinic and provide specialised support to clients of all ages, empowering them to work through and achieve their treatment goals in a caring and safe environment.
(02) 7804 4890 View (02) 7804 4890
Photo of Michelle Pal, MA, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Michelle Pal
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Merrylands, NSW 2160  (Online Only)
In therapy I can help with mental health and relationship issues such as: confidence and assertiveness; reducing worry and negative thinking; having better relationships; managing low moods or mood swings; overcome imposter syndrome; or decrease sexual dysunction. I treat clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar. I also work with adults on relationship issues, and with couples using the Gottman Model of Couples Therapy. I also am passionate about social justice and regularly provide assessments and report for criminal court proceedings including bail application, S14 applications, and sentencing reports.
In therapy I can help with mental health and relationship issues such as: confidence and assertiveness; reducing worry and negative thinking; having better relationships; managing low moods or mood swings; overcome imposter syndrome; or decrease sexual dysunction. I treat clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar. I also work with adults on relationship issues, and with couples using the Gottman Model of Couples Therapy. I also am passionate about social justice and regularly provide assessments and report for criminal court proceedings including bail application, S14 applications, and sentencing reports.
(02) 8294 8062 View (02) 8294 8062
Photo of Josephine Gravina, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Josephine Gravina
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Merrylands, NSW 2160
Having worked with some of the most vulnerable communities in Sydney, Clinical Psychologist Jo Gravina has the ability to make anyone feel at ease. She understands that trust, empathy, and understanding are central to a therapeutic relationship, and views the opportunity to be witness to a patient’s story as a privilege. She prides herself on her warm and friendly demeanour, as well as her ability to remain non-judgmental to her patients, no matter what issues they face. Jo views her role as much more than a job. She sees it as an opportunity to enrich the lives of others, through compassion and evidence based therapy.
Having worked with some of the most vulnerable communities in Sydney, Clinical Psychologist Jo Gravina has the ability to make anyone feel at ease. She understands that trust, empathy, and understanding are central to a therapeutic relationship, and views the opportunity to be witness to a patient’s story as a privilege. She prides herself on her warm and friendly demeanour, as well as her ability to remain non-judgmental to her patients, no matter what issues they face. Jo views her role as much more than a job. She sees it as an opportunity to enrich the lives of others, through compassion and evidence based therapy.
(02) 8294 6238 View (02) 8294 6238

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Xanthe Katsouras, PsychD, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Xanthe Katsouras
Psychotherapist, PsychD, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Are you struggling to find a balance in your life? do you feel out of control, even though you keep trying to take charge?...I am here to support you in creating a more grounded experience of self, and support your ability to engage with life in a beneficial way. My specialty is work with clients who are struggling with relationships, self-esteem, identity and work/ life balance. I have 5years experience in the addictions field, which has deepened my understanding of the emotional/mental imbalances we all carry. I work with clients both individually and in groups.
Are you struggling to find a balance in your life? do you feel out of control, even though you keep trying to take charge?...I am here to support you in creating a more grounded experience of self, and support your ability to engage with life in a beneficial way. My specialty is work with clients who are struggling with relationships, self-esteem, identity and work/ life balance. I have 5years experience in the addictions field, which has deepened my understanding of the emotional/mental imbalances we all carry. I work with clients both individually and in groups.
(02) 9100 0085 View (02) 9100 0085
Photo of Belinda Jelic, PACFA, Counsellor
Belinda Jelic
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150  (Online Only)
With a warm and empathic approach emphasising engagement in life and empowering clients to make values-driven choices for a life filled with satisfaction and meaning.
I provide online coaching and counselling to clients offering psychological support and empowering people to live a values-driven life filled with engagement, meaning and success. I have participated in a personal leadership development program coaching young adults and am also experienced in working with adults and young adults from all walks of life living with Mental Illness, particularly those with Mood and Anxiety disorders, and those recovering from Drug and Alcohol Additions. I also have extensive experience in working with elderly clients.
With a warm and empathic approach emphasising engagement in life and empowering clients to make values-driven choices for a life filled with satisfaction and meaning.
I provide online coaching and counselling to clients offering psychological support and empowering people to live a values-driven life filled with engagement, meaning and success. I have participated in a personal leadership development program coaching young adults and am also experienced in working with adults and young adults from all walks of life living with Mental Illness, particularly those with Mood and Anxiety disorders, and those recovering from Drug and Alcohol Additions. I also have extensive experience in working with elderly clients.
(02) 4214 4987 View (02) 4214 4987
Photo of Trevor Lee - Diversity Counselling Services, MA, Counsellor
Diversity Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150  (Online Only)
I work with clients who look for both long term transformative change within themselves and short term mental tools to tackle situations in their life.
Hi, my name is Trevor Lee. I am a person-centered therapist that provides therapy which is catered to each client. I have experience providing therapy with a multitude of aspects including relationships, trauma, grief & loss, addiction, depression & anxiety, loneliness, work-related stress, life-transitions & life-purpose. I became a therapist after deciding that I wanted to support others through my own lived experience of mental illness for over 13 years. I come from a Chinese background have an inter-cultural understanding of supporting CALD individuals.
I work with clients who look for both long term transformative change within themselves and short term mental tools to tackle situations in their life.
Hi, my name is Trevor Lee. I am a person-centered therapist that provides therapy which is catered to each client. I have experience providing therapy with a multitude of aspects including relationships, trauma, grief & loss, addiction, depression & anxiety, loneliness, work-related stress, life-transitions & life-purpose. I became a therapist after deciding that I wanted to support others through my own lived experience of mental illness for over 13 years. I come from a Chinese background have an inter-cultural understanding of supporting CALD individuals.
(02) 7804 4905 View (02) 7804 4905
Photo of Phuong Phan - Aust-Viet Counselling & Coaching, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Aust-Viet Counselling & Coaching
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150
For more information about my social activities, please go to: - Facebook: Tâm Vấn & Rèn Luyện - Youtube: Tâm Vấn & Rèn Luyện - Life Counselling- Coaching - Linkedin: Vietnamese Counsellor.
Quý khách đang trong tình trạng Đau Khổ, Âu Lo, Bất An, Mất Ngũ hay Trầm Cảm vì những vấn đề nan giãi trong gia đình, cuộc sống, đôi lúc bế tắc tuyệt vọng? Hãy 1 lần gặp gỡ Counsellor Phương Phan, quý vị sẽ tìm được hướng giải quyết thích hợp qua Counselling & Life Coaching, giúp Tâm Lành, Thân Khỏe và Trí Sáng. Everyone is different, so individual depression, anxiety and problems are various in nature. My therapeutic & psychological Counselling program will be tailored flexibly & appropriately to meet your needs in problem solving and emotional recovery. Just try for your self-recovery. PP
For more information about my social activities, please go to: - Facebook: Tâm Vấn & Rèn Luyện - Youtube: Tâm Vấn & Rèn Luyện - Life Counselling- Coaching - Linkedin: Vietnamese Counsellor.
Quý khách đang trong tình trạng Đau Khổ, Âu Lo, Bất An, Mất Ngũ hay Trầm Cảm vì những vấn đề nan giãi trong gia đình, cuộc sống, đôi lúc bế tắc tuyệt vọng? Hãy 1 lần gặp gỡ Counsellor Phương Phan, quý vị sẽ tìm được hướng giải quyết thích hợp qua Counselling & Life Coaching, giúp Tâm Lành, Thân Khỏe và Trí Sáng. Everyone is different, so individual depression, anxiety and problems are various in nature. My therapeutic & psychological Counselling program will be tailored flexibly & appropriately to meet your needs in problem solving and emotional recovery. Just try for your self-recovery. PP
(02) 9053 4305 View (02) 9053 4305
Photo of Carmen Iancu - Circle of Life Psychology Practice, MAPS, Psychologist
Circle of Life Psychology Practice
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Seeking help from a psychologist could be overwhelming and stressful. It may be seen as a sign of weakness or suggest that there is something wrong with the person. My professional aim is to assist the person seeking help in a collaborative, compassionate and authentic manner, in a therapeutic space where personal issues are viewed as opportunities to discover personal strengths, to foster personal growth and improve quality of life. I am deeply committed to empower individuals in overcoming the social stigma associated with mental health issues and I value each person’s uniqueness during their engagement in mental health recovery.
Seeking help from a psychologist could be overwhelming and stressful. It may be seen as a sign of weakness or suggest that there is something wrong with the person. My professional aim is to assist the person seeking help in a collaborative, compassionate and authentic manner, in a therapeutic space where personal issues are viewed as opportunities to discover personal strengths, to foster personal growth and improve quality of life. I am deeply committed to empower individuals in overcoming the social stigma associated with mental health issues and I value each person’s uniqueness during their engagement in mental health recovery.
(02) 9100 0819 View (02) 9100 0819
Photo of Mathew Marchant, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Mathew Marchant
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parramatta, NSW 2150
He provides a supportive atmosphere for clients to explore their difficulties and pursue new directions in order to build a more fulfilling life.
Mathew is an empathic and understanding Clinical Psychologist who enjoys helping clients explore their difficulties and pursue meaningful changes in their lives. He has extensive experience working with a diverse range of issues, including anxiety, depression, burnout, self-confidence, trauma, grief, and adjustment to major life changes. Mathew has a special interest in working with addiction. He has previously served at addiction centres and gambling clinics, including the Centre for Addiction Medicine at Cumberland Hospital. He has also facilitated training workshops in Sydney and interstate. 
He provides a supportive atmosphere for clients to explore their difficulties and pursue new directions in order to build a more fulfilling life.
Mathew is an empathic and understanding Clinical Psychologist who enjoys helping clients explore their difficulties and pursue meaningful changes in their lives. He has extensive experience working with a diverse range of issues, including anxiety, depression, burnout, self-confidence, trauma, grief, and adjustment to major life changes. Mathew has a special interest in working with addiction. He has previously served at addiction centres and gambling clinics, including the Centre for Addiction Medicine at Cumberland Hospital. He has also facilitated training workshops in Sydney and interstate. 
(02) 8074 5731 View (02) 8074 5731
Photo of Jenny Lian, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Jenny Lian
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150
I provide a safe, compassionate and empathic space where we can explore relationships, depression and any other personal life challenges.
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor(PACFA No. 27709) who provides therapy in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Teochew. My lived experience in both Asia and Australia equips me with a strong understanding of cross cultural and migration issues.
I provide a safe, compassionate and empathic space where we can explore relationships, depression and any other personal life challenges.
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor(PACFA No. 27709) who provides therapy in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Teochew. My lived experience in both Asia and Australia equips me with a strong understanding of cross cultural and migration issues.
(02) 5118 9019 View (02) 5118 9019
Photo of Gina Clement, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Gina Clement
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Are you seeking a transformative journey towards a better life? I offer a unique and empathetic approach tailored just for you.
Are you challenging your thoughts about what gender or sexuality feels right for you now? Maybe you've decided to transition or affirm your gender and want someone to psychologically support you during this process. OR Are you worrying or have concerns about your current or past pregnancy? Has your anxiety increased, and you don't know if you'll cope, especially with making decisions about the birth process? Are you worried about the birthing process and can't consider being a parent afterwards?
Are you seeking a transformative journey towards a better life? I offer a unique and empathetic approach tailored just for you.
Are you challenging your thoughts about what gender or sexuality feels right for you now? Maybe you've decided to transition or affirm your gender and want someone to psychologically support you during this process. OR Are you worrying or have concerns about your current or past pregnancy? Has your anxiety increased, and you don't know if you'll cope, especially with making decisions about the birth process? Are you worried about the birthing process and can't consider being a parent afterwards?
(07) 4358 3906 View (07) 4358 3906
Photo of Alexander Rodriguez, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Alexander Rodriguez
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Greystanes, NSW 2145
I am committed to helping clients work through the challenges they face. I believe that every challenge in life is an opportunity for growth, and I actively work with clients to turn their challenges into life changing opportunities. I understand that each person has the capacity to find the answers they seek within themselves, and I actively work with clients by deeply exploring the areas of concern and creating the conditions where the answers can be revealed. In this way, my counselling sessions are geared towards self-exploration which ultimately enable client growth and self-awareness.
I am committed to helping clients work through the challenges they face. I believe that every challenge in life is an opportunity for growth, and I actively work with clients to turn their challenges into life changing opportunities. I understand that each person has the capacity to find the answers they seek within themselves, and I actively work with clients by deeply exploring the areas of concern and creating the conditions where the answers can be revealed. In this way, my counselling sessions are geared towards self-exploration which ultimately enable client growth and self-awareness.
(02) 8261 0770 View (02) 8261 0770
Photo of Song Nguyen, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Song Nguyen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parramatta, NSW 2150
I enjoy meeting and talking to people from all walks of life.
Song is a Sydney based Clinical Psychologist that sees clients from all over Australia through telehealth. She has experience working with a range of clients from different backgrounds as well as varying mental health severities and presentations. Song sees clients presenting with difficulties including but not limited to Trauma (PTSD and Complex Trauma), Somatic Disorders, Chronic Health Issues, Anxiety, Stress and Mood Disorders.
I enjoy meeting and talking to people from all walks of life.
Song is a Sydney based Clinical Psychologist that sees clients from all over Australia through telehealth. She has experience working with a range of clients from different backgrounds as well as varying mental health severities and presentations. Song sees clients presenting with difficulties including but not limited to Trauma (PTSD and Complex Trauma), Somatic Disorders, Chronic Health Issues, Anxiety, Stress and Mood Disorders.
(02) 4210 5968 View (02) 4210 5968
Photo of Melak Almandawi, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Melak Almandawi
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guildford, NSW 2161
My goal as a licenced professional counsellor is to assist my clients in making positive adjustments that sometimes seem just out of reach. But I assure you that there isn't! Life can be challenging sometimes, and you might feel slightly confused. But during our sessions, I'll be a supportive mentor, walking each step of the journey with you. you are restoring your inner self-assurance, humour, and light because what you seek will no longer be lost because it was always there! Every session I utilise a person-centred approach to help you gain the self-assurance you need to live your authentic, happy life.
My goal as a licenced professional counsellor is to assist my clients in making positive adjustments that sometimes seem just out of reach. But I assure you that there isn't! Life can be challenging sometimes, and you might feel slightly confused. But during our sessions, I'll be a supportive mentor, walking each step of the journey with you. you are restoring your inner self-assurance, humour, and light because what you seek will no longer be lost because it was always there! Every session I utilise a person-centred approach to help you gain the self-assurance you need to live your authentic, happy life.
(02) 7804 4394 View (02) 7804 4394

See more therapy options for Merrylands

Life Coaching Counsellors

What can I expect from life coaching?

Clients and coaches will typically start by identifying the problem area(s) that the client hopes to address—then, the coach will help the client brainstorm potential solutions and explore concrete techniques to help the client attain their goals. Coaching is typically short-term and focused on finding solutions in the here and now, rather than exploring a client’s past. In addition to strategies aimed at the client’s specific concerns, coaches may encourage general stress management techniques such as meditation.

Can a life coach help treat anxiety?

Because the majority of life coaches are not licensed clinicians, they are not qualified to diagnose or treat anxiety. Anyone struggling with anxiety or another mental health condition should seek help from a licensed mental health practitioner. However, some coaching clients who struggle with subclinical anxiety report that working with their coach on other problems—such as career dissatisfaction or unhealthy habits—has a positive effect on their anxiety.

Can life coaching be done online?

Yes. While life coaching often happens in person, many coaches conduct sessions over the phone or via online platforms such as Zoom or Skype. Because life coaches are not subject to local licensing regulations in the same way that therapists are, they are able to see clients who live in other locations.

How long does life coaching last?

Life coaching tends to be a shorter-term process than therapy, though it does not always unfold over a specific period of time and is instead based on the coach’s or the client’s preferences. Coaching often takes place over three to 12 months but may be shorter or longer if necessary.