Frequently Asked Questions

Coaching

What is coaching?

(35 sec read) Coaching is a relationship you create with the highest vision of yourself and your life. The main purpose of a coach is to hold that vision up for you come rain or come shine, and guide you to discover the internal resources, strengths, values and action steps that enable you to align yourself to that vision and bring it to life. Coaching is officially defined as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. For many, is a life-changing experience that dramatically improves their outlook on work and life while improving leadership skills. It also helps people tap into their potential, unlocking sources of creativity and productivity.



Who benefits from working with a coach?

(1.5 min read) Honestly, everyone can benefit from working with a life coach. There's a saying that goes "You can't control the waves, but you can learn how to surf." Well in this case life, change and challenges are the waves, and coaching is learning how to surf. If there's any part of your life that you would like to, or need to take to a level of excellence, working with a coach can certainly benefit that process. Some reasons that may lead you to try coaching are: You looking to:
- Live with passion and purpose
- Thrive through a life-changing process or challenge
- Discover your values and focus on priorities
- Stop self-doubt and create clear confidence
- Live a balanced life without excess stress
- Have clarity of how to get unstuck
- Reach goals faster and efficiently
- Improve your performance or gain a new skill
- Build meaningful personal and professional relationships
- Bring your best self to your personal and professional life
- Learn how to communicate effectively
- Set clear boundaries
- Excell in your physical and emotional self-care
- Create positive self-care habits
- Get rid of toxic habits
- Understand your strengths and how to use them
- Develop resilience
- Create a good relationship with money
- Have a positive impact on social change
- Learn how to express your uniqueness



How can coaching help me?

(30 sec read) Regardless of the reason that brought you here or the goals you want to achieve, the challenges you want to tackle or the changes you want to create in your life, coaching can help you. A coach can guide you to become aware of the roadblocks in your way, how are they keeping you stuck, what internal and external resources you have available and/or need to develop to breakthrough, how to build a winning and resilient mindset, and how to take effective action to get to where you want to be.



How is coaching different from psychotherapy or counseling?

(1 min read) While working within a coaching framework, the conversation will mostly revolve around action/thought-provoking questions. More "how" can you respond to what is already in front of you and "what" changes or choices you need to make, and less of "why" did this originate, "who" provoked this, and "why" did it impact you, as you would do in a psychotherapy context. I am fully aware of how useful it is to understand the origins of what ails us today, and I'm not saying that within coaching relationship this information never surfaces. Nonetheless, creating awareness of what is happening now and choosing how to respond is the goal and scope of coaching. Coaching can be a life-changing road to growth and discovery, a needle-mover for those who choose to do the work and show up for themselves. It is increasingly sought after by healthcare practitioners as a resource to aid their patients to achieve and maintain health goals. But coaching is NOT a replacement for any therapy or professional health service.



How do I choose a coach?

(1 min read) You want to know up close who your potential coach is and have clarity on what’s their background, as well as what experience and credentials support their practice. Coaching is currently an unregulated profession in many countries which creates the necessity and the opportunity to get to know the professional you’re working with before you engage in a coaching relationship. I find that the best way to get a sense of how you resonate and connect with your potential coach is by getting to know them and having a conversation. Ask them about their core values, about what they find important in life, tell them what you want to achieve and let them guide you through a test-run session. See how you feel, and choose with knowledge. This is what I have always done with my clients as well as with my coaches, and this is the reason that I invite you to have a conversation with me before we consider working together. Click to know more about applying for a free session.



How do I know we'll be a good fit?

(30 sec read) This is a necessary question to ask yourself, and I appreciate that you do. My best answer would be: set some time apart and schedule a call with me so we can know how we feel with each other, understand if what I offer is what most supports your goals and decide if we want to work together. The other way of "dipping your toes into the water" of what to expect is giving a read to this specific section dedicated to that matter; please click here to read.



Is coaching a replacement for therapy?

(30 sec read) No. Coaching can be a life-changing road to growth and discovery, a needle-mover for those who choose to do the work and show up for themselves. Coaching is increasingly sought after by healthcare practitioners as a resource to aid their patients to achieve and maintain health goals, but it is NOT a replacement for any therapy or professional health service. See "Who benefits from coaching?" If you feel the need to explore sensitive subjects around personal, emotional or physical wounds, please seek the appropriate attention with your primary healthcare provider.



How many sessions will I need?

(1.5 min read) There is no one size fits all when it comes to personal development, personal change and personal goals. Because, as you can see by my excessive use of this word, it is personal. As you may have seen in the Working Together section, I like to have open options when it comes to possible work formats. If you are deeply committed to putting in the work, show up for yourself and are looking for professional support I would certainly recommend the Intensive Coaching Partnership. This process will help you get clear, uncover roadblocks, get laser-focused and take effective action. Plus there is so much more value and time for your money than stacking up individual sessions. Even better, if you’re one of those people that make my heart shine with joy and want to use your goals and success to create positive social change while leveraging social change to deepen their personal growth, then please inquire about the Socially Aware coaching program. Another option is this. If what you want is professional coaching support for a specific project, challenge or life-changing situation and you know you’re going to need a couple of sessions during that phase, you may want to consider the Ongoing alternative. Sessions usually run for approx 60 - 90 min. And they run until the booked time block has been used up. Finally, if you just want to start and allow yourself to see how coaching and hypnosis make a difference for you, booking an individual session if your best choice. If you have any doubts and want to know more, please schedule a conversation and let's sort out what would work for you best.



Do you integrate hypnosis during coaching sessions?

(15 sec read) When appropriate yes. Hypnosis is a core component of my work style and plays a core role during our relationship on an as-needed basis. I like to say that coaching guides us into knowing "what" to transform, and hypnosis answers "how" it can be transformed and sustained in the long run.



Hypnosis

What is hypnosis?

(45 sec read) Hypnosis is a state of relaxed focus. It is a natural state. Each of us enters such a state - sometimes called a trance state - at least twice a day: once when we are falling asleep, and once when we are waking up.
Hypnosis is not a state of amnesia or no awareness. Just the opposite true, in fact: hypnosis is a state of very heightened awareness and focus. I'm sure that when you read the word "hypnosis," all sorts of images of manipulation come to your mind. In reality, hypnosis bears little resemblance to these stereotypical depictions. According to psychologist John Kihlstrom, "The hypnotist does not hypnotize the individual. Rather, the hypnotist serves as a sort of coach whose job is to help the person become hypnotized."
In simple words, the power of hypnosis, even when facilitated by a hypnotist, lies in the client.



Who benefits from hypnosis?

(1 min read) Research has demonstrated that hypnosis is effective and can contribute to: - Quitting smoking - Losing weight and bettering eating patterns - Improve sleep and overcome Insomnia - Positive behaviour changes and habit disorders - Alleviate Post Traumatic Stress Disorder - The treatment of anxiety, sadness, grief, guilt - The treatment of fears (i.e. public speaking, flying, insects, etc.) - Alleviate heartache (i.e. relationship break-ups, etc.) - Create confidence, resilience and emotional strength - End procrastination and create clarity - Manage and reduce pain - Manage and reduce stress - Enhance performance (professional, sports) - Improve focus and concentration - The treatment of pain conditions (i.e. rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, gastric) - The reduction of pain during childbirth - Increasing the chances of pregnancy in unexplained infertility - Reducing nausea and vomiting in cancer patients undergoing chemo - The control of pain during dental procedures - The treatment of skin conditions like psoriasis and warts - Alleviating symptoms of Gastrointestinal disorders (i.e. IBS)



How can hypnosis help me?

(1 min read) Hypnosis is a state of heightened mental focus that fosters brain neuroplasticity. What does this mean? Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, which makes development, learning, recovery and change (amongst other things) possible in our life. It is triggered by behaviour, environmental stimuli, thoughts and emotions (enter hypnosis). In a few words, through hypnotic trance states, we can create easier, faster and way more lasting personal change. *** It is worthwhile to mention that hypnosis can NOT harm you. Hypnosis is a state that reaches subconscious levels of the mind, and you must know that deep in the subconscious mind, our priority is survival and preservation of life. No hypnotist can every make you do or act on something that goes against your values. Not during trance or after it. You can, if you want, reject every suggestion you receive during hypnosis.



Is hypnosis a replacement for therapy?

(30 sec read) No. Hypnosis can be a life-changing road to growth and discovery, a needle-mover for those who choose to do the work and show up for themselves. Hypnosis is increasingly sought after by healthcare practitioners as a resource to aid their patients to achieve and maintain health goals, but it is NOT a replacement for any therapy or professional health service. See "Who benefits from hypnosis?" If you feel the need to explore sensitive subjects around personal, emotional or physical wounds, please seek the appropriate attention with your primary healthcare provider.



How do I choose a hypnotist?

(1 min read) You want to know up close who your potential hypnotist is and have clarity on what’s their background, as well as what experience and credentials support their practice. Hypnosis is currently an unregulated profession in many parts of the world which creates the necessity and the opportunity to get to know the professional you’re working with before you engage in a hypnosis relationship. I find that the best way to get a sense of how you resonate and connect with your potential hypnotist is by getting to know them and having a conversation. Ask them about their core values, about what they find important in life, tell them what you want to achieve and let them guide you through a test-run session. See how you feel, and choose with knowledge. This is what I have always done with my clients as well as with my coaches, therapists and hypnotist, and this is the reason that I invite you to have a conversation with me before we consider working together. Click to know more about applying for a free session.



How do I know we'll be a good fit?

(30 sec read) This is a necessary question to ask yourself, and I appreciate that you do. My best answer would be: set some time apart and schedule a call with me so we can know how we feel with each other, understand if what I offer is what most supports your goals and decide if we want to work together. The other way of "dipping your toes into the water" of what to expect is giving a read to this specific section dedicated to that matter; please click here to read.



Does hypnosis work?

(15 sec read) Yes! Hypnosis seems to be prescribed for a diversity of situations, from quitting smoking, to weight loss, to emotional balance. Research suggests that hypnosis is a powerful tool for self-improvement that works by empowering people to change and update subconscious beliefs



How many sessions will I need?

(1.5 min read) There is no one size fits all when it comes to personal development, personal change and personal goals. Because, as you can see by my excessive use of this word, it is personal. As you may have seen in the Working Together section, I like to have open options when it comes to possible work formats. If you are deeply committed to putting in the work, show up for yourself and are looking for professional support I would certainly recommend the Intensive Coaching Partnership. This process will help you get clear, uncover roadblocks, get laser-focused and take effective action. Plus there is so much more value and time for your money than stacking up individual sessions. Even better, if you’re one of those people that make my heart shine with joy and want to use your goals and success to create positive social change while leveraging social change to deepen their personal growth, then please inquire about the Socially Aware coaching program. Another option is this. If what you want is professional coaching support for a specific project, challenge or life-changing situation and you know you’re going to need a couple of sessions during that phase, you may want to consider the Ongoing alternative. Sessions usually run for approx 60 - 90 min. And they run until the booked time block has been used up. Finally, if you just want to start and allow yourself to see how coaching and hypnosis make a difference for you, booking an individual session if your best choice. If you have any doubts and want to know more, please schedule a conversation and let's sort out what would work for you best.



Do you integrate coaching during hypnosis sessions?

(15 sec read) When appropriate yes. Coaching is a core component of my work style and plays a core role during our relationship on an as-needed basis. I like to say that coaching guides us into knowing "what" to transform, and hypnosis answers "how" it can be transformed and sustained in the long run.



Will I do or say something I don't want to during hypnosis?

No, this a total misconstruct of TV. If anything, hypnosis is a state of amplified attention and focus.



About me

What is your background?

(2 min read) In my core I'm a psychotherapist, I've been practicing for eight years now. I trained in Mexico, where I'm originally from, and I specialized in the psychosomatic relationship between mind and body. Big fan of the work of Carl Jung, Carl Rogers and Alexander Lowen. A strong interest in wholesome health led me to dive into Health and Life Coaching. This approach made me sincerely curious about how small habits determine our lives and how to become a masterful habit changer. My interest in neuroscience and neuroplasticity came together with coaching very smoothly. Since I was a teenager, I've been interested in meditation and the power of an intensely focused mind. In combination with my Psychotherapy and Coaching practice, this led me to Hypnosis. Like a natural flow of one thing leading to another. Hypnosis has been a real game-changer in my personal and professional life. Big fan of Mike Mandel, and without a doubt love the work of Milton Erickson. My world view is influenced by the Systemic Theory and the work of Bert Hellinger. I see my own life through these lenses. Other things that influence my practice are: - Neuroscience. I'm a big mind-science geek, and everything about how our thoughts and emotions impact our reality makes me interested. - Spirituality. I'm a firm believer that there's something higher than all of us together. Call it synergistic energy, call it god, life, love. I get in touch with that higher power through my internal conversations needless of a name. This influences the way I experience life as a whole and therefore my professional life. - Traditional Chinese Medicine. It may be surprising to read, but I'm a trained acupuncturist, and honestly, I find that so much of the ancient medicine philosophy explains why we experience so many disorders nowadays. - Integrative medicine. I have a Master's Degree in Integrative Medicine, and I respect this approach because it returns not only the power to the patient but the responsibility as well. - Curious fact. My first degree was in Industrial Engineering I'm currently working on doing a Master's of Education in Counselling and Psychotherapy in Toronto, Canada, where I reside.



How do you merge coaching and hypnosis?

(20 sec read) Both Coaching and Hypnosis are a core component of my work style. I like to say that coaching guides us into knowing "what" to transform, and hypnosis answers "how" it can be transformed and sustained in the long run. On a typical session, we would use an assortment of coaching tools (question series, dynamics, visualizations, pragmatic psychology resources and challenges) to understand what in your mindset needs to shift. Having clarity of this, we can use hypnosis and take advantage of neuroplasticity to create easier, faster and way more lasting personal change.



Do you use coaching and hypnosis for yourself?

(10 sec read) Yes. I am in constant personal work and self-discovery. Coaching, hypnosis, psychotherapy and everything in my background accompanies my journey to inner peace. I use this knowledge for self-development as well as I am continually working with on my own stuff with a professional.



Logistics

How are the sessions delivered?

These are the two ways in which we work together: - In person in my office if you live or are in Toronto, ON, Canada. - Via videoconference (Zoom, Skype) if you're anywhere in the world



Does it make a difference if we meet in person or via zoom?

(1.5 min read) A couple of years ago I would've said YES! and gave you many reasons why I didn't particularly appreciate working via videoconference. Today, after several hundreds of hours of seeing patients and clients through the "tech-miracle" I can tell you it works wonders. With the proper skill not only can the warmth, closeness and intimate working connection be maintained when working online, but I've found it has some perks as well. When clients are in the safety of their own space, they feel more secure and free to share and work through things that may not be so open to working through in person. Of course, this is not a rule, but I have personally experienced it too. Today technology is so close to who we are, that it just works. You will find that it is less about where you are physically and more about where your attention is.



How long is each session?

It depends. If it is our first session, we’ll use up the full 90 minutes without a doubt. What we're working on is a significant contributing factor as well. A general average is from 60 to 90 minutes.



Payment

What are the payment options?

- Electronic Transfer - Available if you live in Canada - Credit or debit card - Available if you live anywhere in the world * In some cases, a payment plan can be created for you.



Do you offer a money back guaranty?

(1.5 min read) I do not offer a money back guaranty, and I'll explain with detail why I don't. While it's true that the results of personal development are rewarding, enlightening and life-changing, the process is a powerful journey. Think about it like when you go to an amusement park and hop on the greatest rollercoaster. You're fully on board, excited and ready to go, but in the middle of the ride you're screaming like crazy in a cart that has you upside down and swirling at high speed. The cart also has you secured in and won't let go of you until the trip is over, because when the ride is over is the best possible moment when you can and should get out of the cart (I believe there's no need to explain why). The ride is your journey, and our partnership agreement is the cart in this analogy. What I do offer is this: - While working together, we'll be able to make sure your needs are met - I will always be in integrity and honesty with you, and I will hold you to this same standard - I will lovingly and respectfully coach you and guide you to your self-transformation, which is different than pleasing you - I will stand with you while you feel uncomfortable if you ever do, and we'll make a learning experience out of it - I will use all that I have in my toolbox, personal and professional expertise to ensure you have a satisfactory growth experience.



Purpose

This is really about social change! Click to read more.

(1.5 min read) This is for people that feel the burning need to change, to become better, greater, more productive, more real, connected and purposeful. But mostly, that feel the need to impact the balance of social equality and fairness. This is for them that know their success should not take from anyone, rather it must bring others up. This is for you who are brave, who feel afraid but keep walking anyway, who are real human beings, who cry and feel proud of it, who feel deep pain when a homeless person crosses their path or an animal is tortured. This is for people that want to elevate their life purpose, with a higher purpose. This is for you who is committed to making your success matter, who wants to create a greener planet, a cruelty-free world, who gets inspired by kindness and empowered by social change. This is for who want to change the way kids experience life, who want to create a viable future for future generations. This is a wave of thriving minds, a community of people that refuse to be isolated, and rather crave connection through their happiness and success. This is a paradigm shift, where we strive to live by inspiration rather than die by comparison. This is a moment when we chose to grow, to achieve, to reach, to succeed, and bring the world with us. - Our vision for our coaching and hypnosis programs/services is that through them and the change they produce, we can impact social equality and fairness, reduce violence and poverty, defend animal rights and contribute to heal the planet. To spread the awareness of how by connecting, by healing, by aiding and supporting others, we grow and become a thriving, sustainable version of ourselves and therefore of the world. There is no lack of awareness without pain. Pain is what disconnects us from reality and we can learn to transcend it and reconnect. As individuals we can’t change and fully grow while excluding our environment. At the same time, social change cannot happen unless individuals transform from within. This is a systemic approach and we're all part of it.