FAQs
What are your qualifications?
I am a member of and board-certified by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) as a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) trained at the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC), a leader in executive coaching for more than 25 years. I am also a Professional ADHD Coach trained at ADDCA and JST Coaching, and a member of the ADHD Coaches Organization (ACO). These certifications mean I have completed a professional training course, more than 500 hours of coaching (currently more than 1,000 hours), abide by the ICF code of ethics and core competencies, and complete ongoing professional education. While the minimum is 40 hours over three years, I typically complete 100 hours of continuing education per year.
Why does certification matter?
Many people appreciate the grassroots nature of the coaching movement as distrust of medicine in general grows. However, there are significant advantages to working with a certified coach. One example is a greater likelihood of ethical practice in session, meaning the coach will not venture into territory that should be reserved for therapy or consulting. Another is adherence to ICF standards of practice, such as establishing a clear coaching agreement before each session. The ICF core competencies are evaluated during the certification process via a performance measure (directly observed coaching session) and a 3-hour exam. To maintain certification, 40 hours of CEUs are required every three years.
My certification badges are shown in the footer of this page.
Are you a scientist or a coach?
I am a practicing epidemiologist, research design and analysis consultant, biomedical communications expert and professional certified coach. I love the variety of my work and the opportunity to engage in research on matters that affect large populations while also having a chance to make a real difference in someone's life through 1:1 or small group coaching. My training is very complementary, although it may not appear so at first glance. As a scientist I lean on my coach training to help create dynamic conversations that accelerate research clarity and group cohesion (it's a long, arduous process moving a paper through the peer review and publication pipeline!). And as a coach I appreciate having the scientific skills to evaluate research and the communication skills to translate findings into practical steps to improve health and wellbeing.
Continuing Education units
Continuing Professional Education
Board-certified coaches are required to attend 40 hours of CEUs every three years. I typically attend 100 hours per year. Here are a few selections from programs I have attended or CEU programs I have presented because I love learning and teaching.
Physiology <--> Psychology
Emotional intelligence and self-regulation can be taught experientially through breath, sleep, nutrition, movement and neurochemistry. I am one of the first graduates of David Bidler's novel program for youth.
Gut Health <--> Mental Health
The interconnection between the gut microbiome and mood is underappreciated. We are outnumbered by microbes but they are an untapped resource for us!
Gut Health <--> Neurodivergence
Gastrointestinal issues often travel with neurodivergence, causing difficulties with going to school, embarrassment, and discomfort. What simple steps can we take to help alleviate this distress?
ICF
Member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF), ICF PCC Certified
ACO
Member of the ADHD Coaches Organization, Credentialed as a Professional ADHD Coach
CCC
Member of the Communion of Catholic Coaches
Certified by:
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