FAQs
I’ve always had a fascination with people. My degree in Psychology is testament to this! But more than that, I love understanding someone and then being in a position to help and support them. Although I’ve had a few different careers, people has always stayed centre-stage. From little people in the classroom to big people in the boardroom, I thrive on interacting with others to really understand them.
My whole career has been a melting pot of experiences that have led me to this point. I’ve always had a strong sense of needing to do what feels right at the time and so I’ve never felt tied to a particular career. When I burnt out quite spectacularly aged 25 after being in a corporate world that just didn’t align with my values (although I didn’t have the vocabulary or understanding of this at the time), I knew it was time to rediscover who I was and what brought me joy. Since then, I made a commitment to myself to never be dragged down by a job I just didn’t subscribe to fully.
Fast forward 20+ years and it feels serendipitous but also obvious that I should be able to combine all of my skills and experiences to work as a coach. My approach values every client as a whole person, whatever their background or experience and my values are woven into my practice. These values of kindness and warmth, curiosity and professionalism as well as fun ensure I deliver a non-judgemental and psychologically safe space for clients to explore and navigate their challenges knowing that I will hold space for purposeful, wholesome and action-focussed outcomes.
As a coach, I am a member of the Association for Coaching and I adhere to the Global Code of Ethics for coaches. Additionally, I receive regular peer supervision as well as group supervision via the European Mentoring and Coaching Council - EMCC. My commitment to CPD through these organisations ensures I am abreast of changes and updates within the coaching industry.
How will coaching help me?
Coaching is a transformational journey that empowers you to tap into your full potential. In my coaching practice, I use a range of strategies to guide you in uncovering your authentic self, including unique talents and skills you may have forgotten about. Together, we'll work to build your confidence and self-esteem by getting rid of limiting self-beliefs and self-doubt that may be holding you back.
Through soul-searching and deeper work, we'll explore the options available to you and set actionable goals that align with your true desires. This process will bring you closer to leading a more fulfilled and purposeful life, with renewed clarity and direction.
How do I book a discovery call?
To book a Discovery Call you can click HERE. This is a free 30 minute call where we can get to know each other and I will ask you about what you’re looking to achieve with coaching. You can also ask me any questions you may have before committing to your first session.
How do I book my first coaching session?
You can book your first coaching session HERE
Is it better to have a one-off session or book a coaching programme?
It’s entirely up to you! We can discuss this on your free discovery call to see which is the best route for you at this time. You can book your free Discovery Call HERE.
What happens in between each coaching session?
If you’ve signed up for a coaching package, you will have access to me via WhatsApp for the duration of the programme. This way, you can drop me a voice note if you’ve had an insight you want to share, to celebrate a small win, or even if you need a quick pep-talk ahead of an important meeting.
Where do coaching sessions take place?
I offer coaching sessions face to face if you live around the Wiltshire or Bath area – we can agree a convenient place to hold our session (lots of cosy and relaxed venues around here!). If you live further afield, I hold sessions on Zoom. In fact, it doesn’t matter which part of the world you’re in, we can find a time to run our coaching sessions together. I hold an enhanced DBS so matter what your background or needs, I can coach you in a safe and supportive environment. I am also a member of the Association for Coaching and subscribe to the Global Code of Ethics which means my coaching practice is both professional and regulated.
How do I book onto a workshop?
I’m most active on Instagram @kateoatleycoaching where I advertise my open group workshops. To stayed up to date with new workshop dates, you can sign up to my monthly newsletter HERE
What happens if I finish my sessions but I want more?
If you complete your programme but feel you’d benefit from further sessions, you can purchase additional sessions or another programme. You can have coaching sessions with me on a pay as you go basis for as long as you feel you need them!
How do you approach Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in your coaching?
Equality, diversity, and inclusion are core values in my coaching practice. I’m deeply committed to creating a safe, respectful, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel fully accepted and valued for who you are. It's important to me that you feel empowered to bring your whole self to our sessions, including all aspects of your identity, background, and experiences.
As a strong advocate for inclusivity, I recognise the unique perspectives and challenges that each individual may face. My approach is tailored to ensure that your voice is heard, your experiences are validated, and you feel supported in exploring your life and career goals without fear of bias or discrimination. Your journey of personal growth and fulfilment is honoured here, and I’m dedicated to fostering a space where you can thrive authentically.
Where can I sign up to your newsletter?
I write a monthly newsletter full of seasonal updates, news and offers which you can subscribe to HERE.
I think my employer would be interested in booking a coaching workshop for the team, what should I do?
I offer bespoke workshops and training to businesses whether they are private, third or public sector. Please get in touch with me with a contact from your business and I’ll be happy to follow this up with them.
Can I claim coaching back as a business expense?
Yes, this is possible – business coaching is a professional service and is therefore classed as an expense.
I’m not sure if I need coaching or counselling?
Although I have a degree is Psychology and am a Mental Health First Aider, I am not a qualified mental health professional or counsellor. My area of expertise is coaching and mentoring, where we look forward and help you to create the life you want, navigating challenges you’re facing as part of that journey. One of the reasons I encourage a discovery call prior to starting the coaching journey with me is for me to assess that it really is coaching that you’re seeking. If I feel that you’d be better placed with a counsellor, I will recommend this to you. It may be that you seek the help you need from a counselling professional and then feel ready to begin coaching further down the line.
I see a counsellor already – is coaching different?
Coaching is different to counselling in that where counselling looks to the past, coaching looks forward and is much more goal-focused. If you already see a counsellor, often coaching can complement this if you feel you’re in the right space to commit to both. For example, you may be having grief counselling but coaching alongside this could give you a future direction with achievable goals.
My teenager would benefit from coaching – is it suitable for young people?
As an ex-teacher, I still hold an active enhanced DBS and so am able to work with children and young people. I am also a trained Community Mentor and have worked in school settings as a coach and mentor. Whilst the main focus of my private practice is with women and adults, I am able to coach and mentor children and young people. If you’d like to discuss this further, please get in touch with me.
You advertise coaching women – do you coach men as well?
My main focus is to guide women through pivotal points in their life and career but I am qualified to coach men as well. In my role as a coach for the Civil Service, I coach as many men as I do women so please do get in touch if you’re a man facing pivotal points in your life or career and feel you would benefit from coaching.
I want to book a coaching programme but can’t afford the whole amount – do you offer a payment plan?
Coaching can be a big investment in yourself and can feel like a luxury, especially when we have other commitments but try to view it as investment in yourself and your future; coaching can be life-changing. I do offer flexible payment options for the longer coaching programmes so please get in touch with me and we can make the necessary arrangements.
I see lots of coaches online. How is the industry regulated and are you fully qualified?
Yes, there are plenty of coaches out there but not all are fully qualified. I am a member of the Association for Coaching (can this link to the site?) and I adhere to the Global Code of Ethics for coaches. Additionally, I receive regular peer supervision as well as group supervision via the European Mentoring and Coaching Council - EMCC (link to this website). My commitment to CPD through these organisations ensures I am abreast of changes and updates within the coaching industry. I am a qualified coach and mentor and have 20+ years' experience in a range of settings. I also receive regular coaching supervision both in a group and 1:1 which ensures my practice is ethical, current and professional.
Here are some of my qualifications:
ILM L5 Effective Coaching and Mentoring 2022
Mental Health First Aid 2024
Coaching and Mentoring in the Workplace – Civil Service Learning
Health and Safety in the Workplace 2020
Safeguarding Children and Adults 2020
GDPR Training (Data Protection) 2021
Community Mentor training, Wiltshire Council 2024
Enhanced DBS – current
BSc Psychology – 1998, University of Manchester
PGCE (5-11 years) – Post Graduate Certificate in Education 2015, Bath Spa University
You advertise coaching women – do you coach men as well?
My main focus is to guide women through pivotal points in their life and career but I am qualified to coach men as well. In my role as a coach for the Civil Service, I coach as many men as I do women so please do get in touch if you’re a man facing pivotal points in your life or career and feel you would benefit from coaching.