Coaching Approach

“A voice called, and I went. I went, because it called.”
— Hannah Szenes

You might be asking, “but what, exactly, do you do, Emily?”

It’s a question I get a lot.

My role as a professional coach is to help clients access their own courage, creativity, and strength. The result? More clarity and confidence as you navigate your journey. (Plus maybe feeling really good in your own skin.)

I often meet my clients in the messy middle. Perhaps you’re facing a significant life transition. (Perhaps a new assignment?) Or maybe life on the surface looks great, but you wake up feeling stuck in the doldrums, sensing that something isn’t quite right. You know a shift is necessary, but you're unsure how to make it happen—or maybe you know exactly what you need to do and just some supportive accountability to help you get there. 

That’s where I come in. I provide a space for you to explore, ask powerful questions, and gently challenge you to show up for yourself. Because when you fully engage with who you are, everything else becomes easier.

My approach integrates the lessons I’ve learned from a life full of unpredictability, combined with 15+ years’ professional experience in communications and strategy. I hold an International Coaching Federation ACC credential, am Designing Your Life certified, and adopt a trauma-informed methodology in my work.

My process is intuitive and co-creative, striking a balance between art and science. I engage my head and heart while always leaving room for the unexpected.

  • I value: Courage

    As Brené Brown teaches us, “courage” is a heart word. I believe in leading with my heart and speaking truth wherever I can. To me, courage isn’t just about facing fears but also about embracing the unknown (even if it’s a little scary). This has allowed me to build real relationships, create opportunities for myself and others, and hopefully inspire those around me to do the same.

  • I value: Creativity

    Creativity is a way to approach the world, not an output. After years of being told I wasn’t a “Creative,” I came to realize how very untrue that is. Just because I can’t paint or draw to save my life doesn’t mean I’m not creative. I AM creative in the way I see things and solve problems. I strive to infuse my life with creativity every single day. Doing so sparks joy, brings new perspectives, and helps me remember to play.

  • I value: Generosity

    I am generous within my capacity. I also maintain good boundaries, allowing me to give from a place of love and abundance. This sustainable approach to kindness has enabled me to create and strengthen meaningful relationships.

  • I value: Trustworthiness

    I strive to be a woman who is reliable and present. I am careful to commit so that I can do what I say I will do. Trust is the foundation from which I build strong relationships.

  • I value: Authenticity

    I worked hard to reach a point where my insides match my outsides, and vice versa. I’m proud of arriving at a place of acceptance after a long journey of self-discovery.

 FAQs

  • The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.” In coaching, we focus on the present and the future rather than the past, asking questions like “how?” and “what?” instead of “why?”

    But what does that actually look like? It depends. The specifics of coaching can vary, as it is inherently client-centric. Your coaching experience will be uniquely tailored to your needs.

    That said, all coaching conversations have some similarities: you’ll work towards a desired outcome, you’ll have the chance to explore thoughts and feelings, and we’ll wrap with an action plan so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

  • I focus on empowering expat women to navigate both external transitions and internal transformations with courage, creativity, and strength so they can move through the world with more clarity and confidence. My work is anchored in education, training, and lived experience. Open communication is essential; I strive to meet your needs and will make referrals when appropriate to achieve the best outcomes.

  • My coaching certifications and credentials include:
    Certified Professional Coach (CPC) through International Coach Academy (ACTP program)
    Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coaching Federation
    Certified Designing Your Life Coach through Designing Your Life
    Myers Briggs Type Indicator Certified through the Myers-Briggs Company

  • I have had the privilege of deepening my education with:
    Annie Gichuru: racial equity coach
    Fálki Heiđdóttir: intuitive healer, guide, and artist
    Katie Kurtz: trauma-informed care expert and trainer
    Crystaline Randazzo: somatic storytelling coach

    I also draw inspiration from artists, activists, researchers, friends, family, and ancestors. Their wisdom informs everything I do.

  • As an ICF-credentialed coach, you can be assured that I bring quality and excellence to my coaching practice through training (including continuing education) and a commitment to the ICF standards and ethics.

    Learn more through the ICF’s Experience Coaching website or you can always set up a free, no-obligation discovery call to chat through any questions you have about coaching.