How it Works
The nuts & bolts (when, where, how, etc.)
Here’s the logistical bits:
We’ll have 2 calls a month and we’ll talk for 45-60 min (depending on when we get to a good completion point).
For most of my clients, we work over the phone, but if you’re in the Sacramento area, we can also meet in person and do ‘walk & talk’ sessions (my personal favorite).
I’ll probably leave you with suggestions for things to think or write on between sessions.
Asynchronous support between sessions is included.
Is it coaching or therapy? An important question, but one that depends on your specific situation, and something we’ll figure out together.
Anatomy of a session
A primary goal I have for every client conversation is this: to create a space where they’re able to drop the masks and the armor, stop performing, and just be.
So, what actually happens during a session? Well, to oversimplify it, there’s two key elements:
You talk about what’s up for you and where you’re feeling stuck or struggling.
My role, in essence, is that of a supportive guide, helping you to figure out where you want to go and to master the tools & skills you need to get there.
How that actually happens is something that varies a lot from client to client and session to session. I suppose you could say that I’m trying to be like that older family figure you knew you could talk to about anything — you know, the one who would give you the right mix of support, ideas, and the occasional kick in the butt when you needed it?
The goal isn’t to fix you – because you're not broken. It’s to help you get clear about who you are, what truly matters to you, and to find your unique path and place in the world.
Why this structure?
Because it’s my business, and I can do whatever I want.
Seriously, though, there is a method to this particular madness. This structure has evolved from a combination of two things: years of experience working with others and my study of learning theory. To go a bit deeper.
Our conversations give us a chance to unpack things, dive deep, and for me to provide questions, perspective, and information. I’ve moved away from weekly sessions because the space helps my clients have time to think about and explore things on their own, and it also encourages them to be more intentional about what they bring to sessions.
I know a lot of folks are uncomfortable with writing - we can process your trauma from high school English class in sessions if needed. Here’s the thing: we know from research that writing is a powerful tool for integrating learning, processing feelings, increasing self-awareness, and getting clarity. You’re not writing a bestseller. You’re not even writing for anyone else. You’re doing it to support having a better life. And, it doesn’t matter if your handwriting is messy (which is good, because mine sure is).
Between-session support is there because life doesn’t care when our appointments are. It happens when it happens, and sometimes waiting until our next call isn’t what’s best. And, it’s not unusual for things to come up when you’re doing that writing I’m a fan of, so it seems only fair that I make myself available to help you explore it, no?
"I can’t think of one time in the last two years that I didn’t walk away from a session with Steve without some gem of an insight. Old limiting patterns that have plagued me my entire life have finally begun to dissolve. At first, I wondered if the cost would be worth it. Looking back, I find it hard to overstate the value of those sessions."
-DT
What’s next?
If you’d like to learn a bit more about me, you can do so here.
Or, if you have questions or want to explore working together, get in touch. You can drop me a note or set up a free consultation, whichever you prefer.