General FAQs

Is there a fee for searching for a coach on your site?

No, our service is free for users of the site who are looking for a coach.

What are the fees for coaching?

Each coach sets his or her own fees. We recommend you inquire before starting coaching as to what the fees are and ask for a written agreement with your coach to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings.

How long is the coaching process?

The duration of coaching and the frequency of your meetings with your coach can vary widely. We recommend you inquire at the onset of coaching what the expected time frame and frequency of meetings will be.

Do I need to work with a local coach or can I work with someone online and/or by phone?

Unlike counseling, coaching is usually done over the internet or by phone. There are generally no geographical restrictions when working with a coach.

Do coaches need to be licensed?

At this point in time (2021) there is no licensure or state certifications for coaches. Many coaches, however, do seek professional certification through the International Coach Federation (ICF). Like the American Medical Association, ICF is a private organization that has set the practice standard and ethical guidelines for coaches worldwide. Though this certification is not required to be a coach or a member of this site*, it is recommended that coaches complete this certification. Coaches who have completed this certification will show as ICF certified on their profile pages.

I see some coaches say they are “ICF certified”. What does that mean?

See #5 above.

How do you screen the coaches on this site?

Our coaches must fill out our application, which includes indicating their agreement with Catholic church teachings. We also require two references, one professional and one clergy to attest to the applicant’s competency and faith commitment.

In addition, we do a general google search of the applicant’s name and business name to be sure nothing in their public record conflicts with any of our terms and principles.

We do encourage you however to do your own due diligence when hiring a coach by asking relevant questions and conducting your own online search.

Do I have to be a practicing Catholic to use a coach on your site?

Not at all. Our site ensures that our coaches are practicing Catholics and believe in and live by Catholic principles, but being a practicing Catholic is not a condition for working with a Catholic coach. Many Christians, as well as non-Christians, will still find it very helpful to work with our coaches.

I’m not sure if I need a coach or a counselor. What’s the difference?

Put simply, counseling and therapy are processes that generally look back with a view toward healing past emotional and psychological wounds and or in dealing with psychological challenges in the present time. Coaching on the other hand, presupposes the client is in a healthy place emotionally and psychologically. The coaching process looks forward toward attaining goals and learning skills to move forward in a positive way with encouragement and support.

If you are suffering with a mental health condition, such as, but not limited to, addictions, clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, or are living in a situation of domestic abuse, we recommend you first seek out a Catholic therapist to work on healing before engaging in coaching.

I am currently in therapy but would also like to work with a coach. Is that ok?

There are times when a client can successfully be in therapy and engage a coach. In those circumstances, it is imperative that you discuss that with your therapist before starting with a coach and set the parameters for the scope of your coaching work. If your therapist is in agreement, it is recommended that your therapist and coach be in contact to make sure there are no conflicts between the two processes. Whenever there is a disagreement, we recommend you yield to the professional direction of your mental health provider.

Can a therapist also be a coach?

There are some members on our network who hold degrees in psychology, counseling or social work and also offer services as a coach. Be aware that the therapy process is much different from the coaching process and most coaches who are also therapists will clarify the differences and the scope of limitations in their coaching services.

Is everything I tell my coach confidential?

Unlike psychotherapy, the coaching process is not considered “privileged” and confidential. Coaching may be on an individual basis or may include a group element, either in person, online or by phone. It is important you discuss with your coach the expectations and limits of confidentiality in your coaching relationship and in any groups in which you participate.

Although coaches are not “mandated reporters” of suspected abuse, as are mental health professionals, our coaches agree to abide by that standard. If a coach suspects that someone is a danger to themselves or another, or have reason to believe a minor or an elder is the victim of abuse, they agree to report said abuse to the proper authorities.

Why do I need to give my coach an emergency contact?

There may be situations that arise in which a coach may be concerned about your health or welfare. It is important that you share with your coach the contact information of someone close to you that can assist if you are in need.

Further, in situations where your coach, at his or her sole discretion, determines that there are mental health issues that need to be addressed before continuing your coaching relationship, your coach may recommend you seek mental health treatment and may terminate (either temporarily or permanently) the coaching relationship. This is to ensure that you receive the proper help that you most need. Coaching is not a substitute for proper mental health treatment by a competent mental healthcare provider.

Do coaches offer spiritual direction?

Coaching and spiritual direction are two different disciplines. Most coaches are not trained as spiritual directors. There may be times when a coach may give you advice or direction that has spiritual components to it, but that is not to be construed as spiritual direction.

If you would like to engage the services of a spiritual director, we recommend you check out these articles at SpiritualDirection.com

Is Catholic Life Coaches affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church?

No, Catholic Life Coaches, LLC is a private resource provided to help those seeking coaches who are faithful to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church to find a qualified coach of the Catholic faith. Our mission is to provide coaching referrals and information that are faithful to the magisterium of the Roman Catholic Church.