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Create in me a clean heart, oh God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Ps. 51:10 NIV

CCN Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does a Christian Coach Do?

A Coach works with you to remove the blinders, allowing you to see what you already know, and support forward movement. A Christian Coach is there for you, prayerfully listening to your concerns and asking questions that will give you clarity and perspective on your situation to get you past your own blocks, realize your God given potential, and challenge you to be your best. A Christian Coach adds the spiritual dimension of Christian faith to the process.

I know that Christian Coaching has really become popular the last few years.  What makes a Christian Coach more valuable to me?

Christians working with Christians have a rapport based on shared values, faith, and commitment. Life issues inevitably mesh with your spiritual walk.

Not only are you and your Christian Coach "reading from the same page," but you will also have a spiritual bond, laced by understanding and covered by prayer. Defining success as God sees us is often very different from that of the secular world.  Your coach meets you where you are. What your coach wants for you is to savor the process of becoming all that you perceive God wants for you.


I'm not clear about the differences between consulting, counseling, mentoring, pastoral counseling and coaching.  Can you explain?

While there are overlapping qualities and skills in each of these, there are distinct differences.

Consultants are experts in their field.  They draw on their experience to manage projects, change, organizational development, etc.  They make recommendations and are directive.  Some Consultants are retained on an ongoing basis by companies or organizations, others work on a project only basis.

Counselors work with people who have a diagnosable illness and/or behavior that prevents them from functioning well. Counselors and Therapists require advanced degrees and a license to practice. Counselors meet in person with their clients and the Counselor is directive.

Mentors work with people who are starting out in a business, ministry or life experience where the mentor has experience.   Mentors most often do not receive a fee for their assistance.  A mentor role is an advisory role that diminishes naturally as the mentee becomes established.

Pastoral Counselors work with people who want a deeper understanding or interpretation of scripture which can be applied to everyday life.  Pastoral Counselors have extensive biblical training and/or seminary degrees along with training and certification in Pastoral Counseling.

Coaches work with emotionally healthy people who are looking to make changes in their lives to become or achieve more.  Coaches are not directive, but by listening, powerful questioning, support and challenges, assist their clients in reaching their own goals and solutions.  Coaches provide options to consider and exchange ideas.  The client sets the agenda.  Most coaches work by telephone and have nationwide or global practices.  Generally, coaches who practice full time have specific training from specialized coach training schools.  Licensing is not currently a requirement, but certifications are awarded to coaches with specific training and experience.


How does this work?

Most coaches work by telephone, eliminating geographic boundaries, and allowing you to work with someone who is exactly right for you. Coaching is an alliance - a partnership. Most coaches work with people on a regularly scheduled weekly call (3 or 4 times a month) for 30 - 45 minutes.   Teleconferences via a bridge line provides a practical and cost effective option for groups who are meeting with a coach.

What does it take to get started?

Several factors need to be in place in order for the coaching relationship to be a wise investment for you. It's important that you be ready, willing and able to move forward in your life, business, or ministry with an openness to new ideas that will change the outcome. You also need to have the resources and be willing to make space for the process of positive change.

How can I find a Christian Coach?

Go to the "Find a Christian Coach" and click the criteria of what is important to you. A list of Christian Coaches that match your preferences will come up on your screen. You can obtain information each one out by clicking the names listed as a result of the search. The next step is to make contact with coaches of interest and follow up with a telephone conversation. All coaches listed have their own private practices and agree to the Code of Professional Conduct of the Christian Coaches Network.  Coaches working with minors are required to have a current personal background check on file with CCN. This clearance can be verified upon request.
Questions? email or call CCN headquarters at 360-306-8296

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