Individual LM

Private sessions for an individual who seeks a thinking partner, coaching, or mentoring to process specific challenges or decisions.

What happens during a one-to-one session?

Introductions and breaking the ice
You've done it, you've set up that first appointment. Congratulations. Your journey of self change has already begun.....

The first session usually starts with a round of introductions in which both you and I may share superficial information about ourselves. You may ask questions about my approach to clients, the philosophies and values that influence my work, confidentiality, my professional experience and expertise and so on. I may ask questions  to explore your personal resources, social support networks, special strengths and gifts that will 'hold' and tie you over the inevitable rough patches that may arise during the risky but exciting business of self examination.

During this first meeting care is taken to assess and comment on whether we share the right kind of 'chemistry' so that you will feel safe to name and deal with certain topics and discussions.

This is an opportunity in which to confirm to continue with the sessions, to postpone to a more suitable future date or to explore referral to alternative services and resources.

Contracting and clarification of expectations
I usually do the contractual agreements in the first session or it may take place a little later. We will go over the contractual agreements which includes, philosophies and attitudes, expectations, time frames, costs, and boundaries that will be honoured during our working together. I will clarify my role and responsibilities to listen, to create safety and comfort, to challenge as well as to “hold”. The struggle is always yours, and I am the enlightened and empathic witness.

Some expectations that I may have about you:
I perceive you as fully capable, resourceful and resilient to learn from challenges that come your way. So whilst I will always endeavor to be supportive I will never 'take over' your difficulties, that is an insult to your human dignity.

I may expect you to read up and find the words that will assist you in understanding and expressing some of your experiences and feelings.

To share insights and novel ways of understanding of yourself.

To take responsibility to change the things you can.

To utilise social support networks appropriate to yourself be it church, prayers, friendships or community mechanisms that may at different times and in different ways  become part of the glue that holds you during emotionally turbulent times.

To attempt to carry out some homework tasks intentioned to facilitate your process of self transformation.

And Finally:
Learning about ourselves is about taking risks to do the kind of things we haven't done before. It can be scary because its about entering the unknown. It can also be very exciting because you may just discover that pot of gold buried deep inside.

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