CM: When did you complete the Transformative Coaching Essentials program, and what are some of the most valuable things you got out of it?
AB: I completed the Transformative Coaching Essentials program in 2019. One of the most valuable aspects of the program was learning how to facilitate deep, meaningful conversations that help individuals create their own solutions. The emphasis on active listening, powerful questioning, and fostering self-awareness has been instrumental in my approach to leadership and professional development.
CM: Do you consider yourself a life coach? If no, how would you describe who you are professionally?
AB: I don’t specifically identify as a life coach. My background is in counseling psychology (therapy), leadership, and organizational development, with a strong emphasis on communication and empowerment. In my therapy practice, I help clients cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and emotional well-being as they navigate personal challenges and growth. In leadership, I integrate coaching and psychological principles to help professionals enhance their emotional intelligence, refine their leadership skills, and deepen their understanding of their influence on others.
CM: What would you say to somebody who told you they were thinking about becoming a life coach?
AB: I’d encourage them to reflect on what draws them to coaching and what impact they want to have. Coaching is a powerful profession, but it requires continuous learning, self-awareness, and a genuine commitment to helping others grow. I would highly recommend checking out Transformative Coaching Essentials (TCE) with Cami McLaren as a strong foundation for coaching principles and practice.
At the same time, I believe coach training is not a one-and-done deal – it’s an ongoing learning process. As they progress in their career, I’d encourage them to continue exploring different coaching models to refine their approach and ensure they receive ongoing quality training that aligns with their values and goals. It’s also critical to stay connected with your coaching community. One of the biggest gifts I received from TCE was becoming part of the amazing coaching community that Cami has built and works so hard to nurture. Having a supportive network of coaches makes a huge difference in both personal growth and professional development.
CM: What is one misperception you believe people have about coaches (whether designated “life coach” or something else)?
AB: One common misperception is that coaching is about giving advice or solving problems for people. In reality, coaching is about guiding individuals to discover their own answers and empowering them to take ownership of their growth. A great coach doesn’t dictate solutions but rather asks the right questions to help others unlock their potential.
CM: What is your coaching specialty?
AB: I don’t really have a coaching specialty at this time since I primarily use my coaching skills as a leader and in my therapeutic practice. However, upon my retirement (which I hope isn’t too far in the future!), I plan to reignite my coaching practice with a focus on women seeking a more intentional, value-driven life filled with passion and joy – particularly older women who are entering or preparing for retirement.
This focus aligns closely with my values of self-awareness, resilience, emotional intelligence, and intentional growth, all of which are crucial during major life transitions. Retirement can bring deep questions about identity, purpose, and fulfillment, and I want to help women navigate this shift with clarity and empowerment. My background in counseling psychology, leadership, and organizational development gives me the tools to support them in redefining their roles, embracing change, and creating a life that feels meaningful beyond traditional work. Just as I emphasize continuous learning and growth in coaching, I believe this stage of life offers an opportunity for women to design a future that prioritizes intention, purpose, and personal joy.
CM: Are you a full-time coach?
AB: I am not a full-time coach; however, coaching is a key part of my work, but I also have responsibilities in organizational development, policy, communications, and strategic initiatives. My role allows me to integrate coaching into broader leadership and professional development efforts. I’m also fortunate in that I can integrate coaching skills and tools into my therapeutic practice.
CM: What do you do other than coaching?
AB: I am the Chief Development Officer for Turning Point Community Programs (TPCP). TPCP is a nonprofit organization that has been providing behavioral health and social services in Sacramento for the past 49 years and I’ve been with them for 26 years. In my role at TPCP I oversee policy, RFP responses, communication initiatives, housing initiatives, and fundraising. I also lead strategic planning efforts and support leadership development across the organization.
Beyond my professional work, I am a wife, mother, and grandmother to four amazing teen and pre-teen humans. I love spending time with them and observing as they figure out how to navigate the world around them – it’s both fascinating and rewarding. I’m also an avid reader, and this year, I reignited my passion for skiing after a 30+ year break. It’s been exhilarating, a little humbling, and a great reminder that I’m definitely not as young (or as indestructible) as I once was!
CM: Do you have a website dedicated to your coaching business?
AB: Yes, I do have a website dedicated to coaching: Intentionally Me. However, I’ll admit I’m not as active at updating it as I’d like to be! That said, I do still accept coaching clients if someone reaches out to me.
CM: Do you have social media accounts that you use primarily for your coaching business?
AB: Yes, I have social media accounts that I use primarily for my coaching business:
- Facebook: Intentionally Me
- Instagram: Intentionally Me
- LinkedIn: Intentionally Me
However, I must admit I’m not the most proficient and certainly not the most prolific poster. Something I plan on improving as I move into retirement!
