About

I use the word ‘coach’, since that’s the one people know, but what the heck does it really mean? Well, in my case, it means that I help purpose-driven entrepreneurs break through limiting beliefs and behaviors so they can transform their lives and businesses.

I think we’re all here to make a positive difference in the world. With my background in psychotherapy, endless belief in possibility, and passion for helping others achieve their potential, the way I’ve decided to make that difference is to focus on helping those with big ideas make the necessary transformations to get those ideas into fully realized form out in the world.

Steve McCready playing guitar

My Journey: From Psychotherapy to Coaching

Years ago, a client dubbed me "the least therapist-like therapist ever." While it might not have been great for my therapy practice, it captured a deeper truth: psychotherapy wasn't quite the right fit for me. It was a bit like that shirt that seems to fit OK and looks fine … but is always a little uncomfortable.

Coaching, it turns out, is a better fit, not just for me and my personality, but for the journey I walk with my clients on. There’s a different focus (future, not past) and a more flexible container for the work. It’s a space where I’m able to get into a flow state in my work, which is better for me and my clients

My Approach

I combine my formal education (a Bachelor's in American Studies from Brown University and a Master's in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco) with over 20 years of practical experience and continuous learning. As a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist since 2006, I bring a wealth of psychological insight to my coaching practice as well.

While it looks a bit different with each client, My goal with all of them is to build an system of action, reflection, and refinement that produces an upward spiral of growth and impact.

We All Need A Why - Here’s Mine

I'm deeply concerned about the state of the world and feel called to do my part to help. My work has connected me with many inspiring individuals striving to make a positive impact, and being able to help these change-makers make even greater impacts in their missions is a privilege and an inspiration that I’m grateful to be involved in.

Beyond the Work

I was born in Montana and have lived in Sacramento since 1992, but my years in Santa Cruz fundamentally shaped my personality, values, and beliefs. I’m fortunate to share my home with my teen daughter, artist partner, and our chatty tortie cat. For us, a fun time at home usually involves being creative, playing games, watching our favorite shows or eating pizza. We’ve also been known to spend way too much time in Target goofing around.

Fun Facts

  • Yes, I have a DJ voice: I worked in FM radio for a few years a long, long time ago.

  • I lived in Santa Cruz for 7 years but have never surfed.

  • I prefer my beer German (no IPAs, please) and my pizza with pepperoni pizza (ham and pineapple is not ok!)

Ready to unlock your potential and make a bigger impact? Let's chat and see if we're a good fit to work together - just click the link below to set up a call.

Keep moving forward,

-Steve