What Is Coaching?

My approach to coaching is grounded in evidence-based psychology and respectful collaboration. But what exactly is coaching — and how is it different from therapy or mentoring?

A widely accepted definition comes from coaching psychologist Dr Jonathan Passmore, who describes coaching as:

“A Socratic-based, future-focused dialogue between a facilitator (coach) and a participant (coachee), where the coach uses open questions, active listening, and constructive feedback to support the participant’s learning, development, and performance.”
(Passmore, 2010)

This definition reflects how I see coaching: not as advice-giving, not as mentoring, and certainly not as therapy. I don’t diagnose, treat, or focus on the past. Instead, coaching is a structured but flexible space where you’re supported to think clearly, explore possibilities, and take meaningful steps forward.

Coaching is:

• Future-oriented – focusing on where you want to go, not where you’ve been.

• Non-directive – I won’t tell you what to do. Instead, I’ll help you find your own way, with confidence.

• Supportive – a confidential space to think, reflect, and reconnect with your values.

• Structured – with clear goals and boundaries, but always shaped around your needs.

If you're navigating change, feeling stuck, or ready to grow in a new direction, coaching provides space to pause, think with support, and move forward with clarity.