After a decade of study and building a thriving private therapy practice, I made a decision that surprised many — I walked away. Traditional therapy, while valuable, no longer aligned with my values or vision, and I was burnt out.

 

I realised I wasn’t passionate about fixing problems; I wanted to help people build solutions — something bold, meaningful, and future-focused. Coaching became the clear path forward.

For the right person, coaching is transformational because it’s forward-focused, action-oriented, and rooted in unlocking potential. It’s not about fixing; it’s about expanding. That’s why I took everything I learned as a therapist and transitioned to coaching — to collaborate with people ready to take action and design their next chapter.

“Not all that glitters is gold — and not all coaches are real coaches.”

The right coach doesn’t shout or dazzle. They meet you where you are, helping you uncover clarity, confidence, and alignment. It’s not about being saved — it’s about being seen and empowered to step into your next chapter.

Why Has Coaching Grown So Rapidly?

Coaching has emerged as a lifeline for those seeking purpose, direction, and alignment in a world full of complexity and endless opportunities. Here’s why:

1. The Quest for Clarity: When life feels overwhelming, clarity becomes a superpower. Coaching creates the space to step back, assess, and make decisions from a grounded place.

2. The Normalisation of Support: Asking for help is no longer seen as weakness but as wisdom. Coaching reflects this shift, offering a proactive, intentional way to grow.

3. The Rise of Personalised Solutions: In a cookie-cutter world, people are seeking tailored support. Coaching adapts to your unique challenges and aspirations.

4. Shifts in Career and Life Pathways: Gone are the days of linear paths. Whether you’re navigating a career pivot, leadership role, or personal reinvention, coaching provides the guidance to confidently move forward.

5. The Growth of the Gig Economy: More people are working independently, and coaching fills the gap, offering structure, strategy, and accountability to thrive on your own terms.

“In a fast-paced world, clarity isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.”

What Real Coaching Looks Like

Real coaching doesn’t rely on noise or hype. It’s about creating a partnership where clarity, growth, and meaningful action emerge naturally. Here’s what it feels like when coaching is done right:

• You feel seen and understood. A great coach listens deeply, meeting you where you are without trying to fit you into a predetermined formula.

• You’re challenged to grow. Real coaching involves asking the hard questions and encouraging you to step outside your comfort zone.

• It’s forward-focused and action-oriented. While therapy often focuses on healing the past, coaching centres on building your future.

• It’s collaborative. Coaching isn’t about being told what to do; it’s about working together to find solutions that align with your values and goals.

• You gain clarity and momentum. The best coaching doesn’t leave you spinning your wheels. It equips you with the tools and perspective to take meaningful action.

“Real coaching isn’t about giving answers. It’s about helping you ask better questions.”

What to Look For in a Coach

Choosing the right coach is a pivotal decision. It’s not just about their credentials — it’s about their ability to meet you where you are, challenge you, and guide you toward meaningful growth. Here are five qualities to prioritise when considering a coach:

1. They’ve done the work on themselves. A coach who hasn’t invested in their own growth can’t guide yours.

2. They’re not obsessed with scaling their business. Their focus should be on your growth, not their next milestone.

3. They’re real about results. No unicorn promises. They focus on sustainable growth, not overnight success.

4. They embrace ethics. They align with professional codes of conduct (ICF, EMCC, PACFA, etc.) and prioritise integrity.

5. They challenge you. Growth comes from being held accountable, not just validated. Growth comes from being held accountable, not just validated.

“If they’re always cheering, never challenging — that’s not coaching.”

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Coach

Before committing, ask:

1. Can I speak to past clients? Real conversations with former clients reveal far more than testimonials.

2. Do you have your own coach or supervisor? Great coaches value accountability and growth in their own lives.

3. What’s your onboarding process? Strong coaches take the time to understand your goals and challenges from the start.

4. How will we measure progress? Look for clarity in tracking outcomes and celebrating wins.

5. Which ethical body do you align with? Coaches tied to bodies like ICF or EMCC are held to rigorous standards.

6. How do you manage group dynamics (for group programs)? Group coaching requires careful curation to ensure everyone grows together.

Coaching isn’t the solution for every situation, and the best outcomes come when you’re clear about what you need. So, how do you know if you’re ready for coaching?

 

• You’re action-oriented. Coaching is about moving forward. Coaching might be the right fit if you’re ready to take ownership of your growth and implement changes.

• You’re seeking clarity, not a cure. Coaching isn’t therapy. While therapy focuses on healing past wounds, coaching helps you clarify your future and take steps toward it.

• You’re open to being challenged. The right coach won’t just validate your perspective; they’ll encourage you to see things differently and step out of your comfort zone.

• You’re ready to invest in yourself. Coaching is a partnership. The more you’re willing to commit, the more transformative the results will be.

If you’re still working through significant emotional pain or trauma, therapy might be a better first step. Therapy helps you heal; coaching helps you thrive.

“Coaching meets you where you are and helps you move toward where you want to be.”

My Approach to Coaching

I believe coaching is a collaboration — as much as you’re choosing me, I’m choosing you. The right fit matters because coaching is deeply personal. It’s about creating a space where exploration feels safe, growth feels natural, and action feels aligned.

My psychological background informs my approach, but coaching with me isn’t about rigid frameworks or pre-determined formulas. It’s about partnership. Together, we’ll identify your unique path and ensure your every step is intentional.

Ways to Work With Me in 2025

If you’re considering coaching in 2025, here’s how we can work together:

1. Impact Clarity Package: (2-week Deep Dive) For those seeking immediate clarity and actionable insights.

2. Ignite Package: (3 to 6 months 1:1 Coaching) Designed for individuals ready to commit to meaningful, long-term transformation.

3. Self-Leadership Group Mastermind for Women: A space for growth-driven individuals navigating leadership and personal evolution together.

Don’t fall for promises. Look for proof.

 

Justine Campbell is a licensed clinical therapist turned solutions-focused coach for entrepreneurs, expats, and global leaders seeking greater impact, joy, and alignment. With over three decades of experience living and working across eight countries, she deeply understands the complexities of navigating uncertainty. Justine empowers her clients to embrace self-leadership, fostering growth and creating a life they love—starting with a stronger connection to themselves.