Some Frequently Asked Questions...

What actually happens in a coaching conversation with Alissa? 

Each coaching conversation has a defined structure: an opening exploration, a deep-dive in the middle, and time at the end to wrap up and discuss next steps. The container provides just enough structure while letting the conversation develop naturally.

I practice coaching that is "client-led" which means that while we'll be following the arc of our larger Journey together, the specific topic of each session is always up to you. You determine exactly what we discuss and when. I am always ready to guide and make topic suggestions if that is something you want. ​

​

I'll never push you to discuss anything you don't want to talk about (unless you specifically ask me to). I'll ask you questions—often unique to the session and topic—and you'll do most of the talking by providing answers. That's why I clarify that I'm not here to give advice or tell you what to do. I'm here to help you see your own beliefs and thought patterns, and identify what and how you want to change.

​

One of the great gifts of coaching is often being and feeling truly heard by another person. Deep listening is a cornerstone of my coaching approach, as well as the belief that my clients carry so much wisdom inside of themselves. A coach can be instrumental in helping clients to see that wisdom and use it to improve their lives. 

Is this therapy? 

Coaching and therapy share many similarities. But coaching is often thought of as being more future-oriented, with a focus on action as decided by the client. It generally involves less processing of past experiences than therapy. As someone who has had a lot of therapy and is a trained coach, I think another important distinction is that a coaching conversation often has a defined structure and follows a particular arc, as well as a specific focus or topic. Therapy typically has less of a defined topic and structure.

As your coach, it's very important to me to maintain proper boundaries regarding what I'm trained to do. If I feel we're moving into territory that would be better handled by a therapist, I'll let you know, and offer to provide options if you'd like.

I'm not an eldest daughter, but I relate! Can I do this work? 

It's possible! These issues affect a lot of people regardless of birth order, particularly those socialized as women. If you feel called to this work, reach out a schedule a free discovery call. I'm always happy to learn more about you and your needs, and help us both understand if coaching with me is a good option for you.  

Is this coaching program the right fit for me? 

Generally, my coaching is best for: ​

​

• Eldest daughters who feel they have a moderate to high level of self-awareness.

• Eldest daughters who are able and willing to see how their beliefs and early experiences have impacted their own lives.

• Eldest daughters who are willing to make changes and do things that might feel uncomfortable (with support).

• Eldest daughters who have done some level of self-evaluation or inner work before, with or without a healing professional.

• Eldest daughters who are ready to actively participate in their own transformation.

​

Generally speaking, my coaching is not a good fit for:

​

• Eldest daughters who believe they carry a lot of trauma that they have never processed with a therapist or other healing professional.

• Eldest Daughters who cannot imagine being able to change anything about their life, no matter what. 

​

If you are unsure and drawn to this work, reach out! I'm always happy to connect and answer questions. 

​​​