We could all benefit from having a coach from time to time! Over the years, I have come to realise that there is a real need and value in providing people with a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space that allows them to just be themselves and discover what would make them more fulfilled. No more masks, no more pretending, no more pleasing others. Where else can you truly be authentic to yourself, have those deeper conversations and explore what you really want and what you really feel? It’s unlikely to be at work, it’s not always easy at home and often quite challenging even with very close friends. This is where coaching comes in. Interestingly, I am noticing that a growing number of people are now finally giving themselves “permission” to dedicate the time, energy and resources to have those coaching sessions and conversations. These can have long lasting and transformative results.
My name is Marileen Koppenberg and I am a Life and Career Coach. I certified and trained with Co-Active Training Institute and I am also ICF certified. Born in the Netherlands, I grew up in the South of France, studied in the US for an MBA and started my professional career in the UK. Gradually I made London my home. After a long career in financial services followed a period during which I primarily looked after my children. That’s when I decided to retrain as a coach and practise what I find most fulfilling; connecting with people and helping them grow and thrive.
What do we explore during our coaching sessions?
My coaching is client-centred. It is really about giving that full attention through active listening and meaningful questions, enabling my clients to gain valuable insights about themselves, their longings and aspirations. In some ways, I am the clients’ mirror and help them to see what is in their blind spot. They discover what is important to them, start to see more clearly the range of possibilities, and develop a sense of self-empowerment and self-confidence. As a life and career coach, I will challenge them while standing by their side. Together we keep on exploring, unlocking some doors while closing some others. And on that journey, clients start to connect more deeply to their self-authority, to their inner voices and realise that they can make conscious choices in terms of how they really want to shape their lives. And by bringing a “sprinkle” of accountability, insights turn into actions. One step at a time and one day at a time. I might evoke the changes, but it is the client who makes the actual leap! And it is a true honour and gift to witness that.
There is no such thing as a typical client
My clients range from all age groups, from different professional backgrounds and they are often at different stages and transitions in their lives. And as such, goals can relate to both professional and/or personal issues. Common themes are career related (a relaunch, pursuing new ambitions, developing new skills, regaining influence, finding a voice and seeking promotion). They could also relate to parenting, such as starting a new family or readjusting with having an empty “nest”. Life-work balance as well as self-care issues are also common pain points, especially during the present times of isolation and long periods of uncertainty.
If you are interested in finding out more about how I work with clients as a life and career coach, please visit my website at
www.mkcoaching.co.uk and contact me there to set up a free chemistry session.
I coach both in English and in French.
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