How will I know you are the right counselor/coach for me?
During our initial consultation, we will identify if I am an appropriate fit for you. So before you say "yes", you will have a sample of what the counseling or coaching experience will be like.
What is the difference between counseling and coaching?
While there are many similarities between counseling and coaching, there are some key differences. Clients who enter counseling, usually have a specific issue or problem they are struggling with. This issue is likely to be significantly impacting their ability to function effectively on a day to day basis. Counseling with these individuals generally focuses on gaining insight into these issues and exploring solutions to help the individual cope more effectively. Counseling is usually covered by insurance, but coverage requires the diagnosis of a mental or emotional disorder. Individuals dealing with significant anxiety, depression or impulse control issues should consider counseling.
Coaching on the other hand, is for individuals who do not meet the criteria for a mental or emotional disorder and who are generally functioning fairly well in their day to day lives. I as your coach, will be an accountability partner, there to support, challenge and encourage you to stretch yourself , reaching toward your full potential. Individuals challenged by time management, stress management and organizational issues are great candidates for coaching, as well as couples seeking to strengthen their relationship and improve communication skills.
How do I get started?
If you are interested in counseling or coaching, you can contact me via phone or e-mail to schedule an initial consultation. During this session we will explore the details of the counseling/coaching relationship and you'll have the opportunity to decide if we're a good fit for one another.. If you'd prefer, you can schedule your appointment online, by registering as a new client and using the make appointment link to set up an appointment. Once you've registered, you'll receive a confirmation e-mail of your appointment within 24 hours (up to 48 hours if you schedule on a Friday).
What can you expect from me as your counselor/coach?
1. I will be a partner in bringing out the best, the deepest, and the truest in you
2. I will provide safety, encouragement and support; in an environment in which you can relax and explore
3. I will provide complete confidentiality throughout the process
4. I will help expand your view of what is possible and promote discovery of new insights
5. I will give you input, straight feedback and operate as a sounding board
6. I will listen carefully to what you say and ask questions that increase awareness
7. I will be an on-going resource for you in accomplishing your intentions
What if I sign up for this and decide it is not right for me?
I understand that choosing a counselor or coach is a process that may take some time. You want someone you feel comfortable with, whose style suits your own, yet someone who knows when to challenge you or push a little bit when appropriate. The best way to find that person is to spend some time talking with him or her and asking the questions that are important to you. That's not always an easy thing to do. Many clients seem shocked when I answer my phone, fully expecting to speak with a secretary or answering service. I've had other clients tell me that after leaving messages with several other providers that I was the only one to return their call. That's why, along the way, I do everything I can to connect personally with my clients. From answering my own phone, and returning every phone call I receive within 24 hours, even if I am not accepting new clients, to providing no cost initial consultations for clients who want to meet with me before they decide if I'm right for them. If at any time you are not satisfied with services I provide, please let me know and I'll work with you to address your concerns or find another provider who is a better fit.
Security & confidentiality
Is this client center and my data secured and safe?
Yes! In fact, there are 3 levels of security: provided to keep your data safe and confidential:
1 – username and password protected
2- Verisign Security Certificate protects your data on this site
3- https:// secured pages
Is my information confidential?
Yes. This site is protected by a username/password system. You are the only one that has access to your information.
Additional Support
Can I contact you in-between our scheduled coaching sessions?
Yes! In the event that you would like support on something that comes up in between our meetings, you can email me or call. If you reach my voice mail, I'll get back with you personally as soon as possible. Usually within a few hours, but never more than 24 hours after your call.
Accessing the Private Client Area
What is the “Register Now” link and when would I use it?
If you are interested in becoming a client or beginning the counseling/coaching process, you can create your own account to access the private client area. When you “register” I will be notified that your account has been created and will need to activate your account. This could take up to 24 hours.
How do I access your private client area and how do I log in?
Click on the Login Link (above, at the top center of this website page). Then enter the username and password that has been assigned to you. Don’t have log in information yet? Contact me so we can get an account created for you.
I have a password that I use for most of my on-line accounts. Can I change the password you assigned to me?
Yes. You will need to log in initially using the password I assigned to you. Once you log in you can change your password at any time under your Client Profile Page.
What if I forget or lose my password and log in information?
If you simply forgot your password, you can still go to the Login Link. Enter your username and click on the “I Forgot My Password Button”. You will receive an email shortly with your password included.
If you misplaced both your username and your password, contact me via email and I will forward you your information.
I’m trying to log in, but it will not accept my username or password, what do I do?
Remember that the log in information is case sensitive, so enter it exactly like it was given to you, If you are unsure what that is, you can contact me via email and I’ll forward that to you.
Forms, Documents and Resources Available
What makes up a “Welcome Packet” and what do I do with this?
By completing the information in the welcome packet, you are providing me with some helpful information so I know best how to support you, guide you and work together with you. A welcome packet consists of basic forms, documents and resources that will help to get us started in the counseling/coaching process. If you are a Coaching client you will complete the “Client Profile” form, the “Goals” form and the “Discovery” form. You will also find the coaching agreement located in this packet. If you are a counseling client you will be completing the client intake form, and may choose to complete any of the other forms, if you feel it beneficial to do so. It is customary for you to complete these items prior to our initial session together.
Scheduling/Re-Scheduling Appointments
What if I need to reschedule my appointment?
It’s easy. with at least a 24 hour notice, you can reschedule any appointment by using the on-line scheduling system , by clicking on the Make appointment Link to schedule as a new or returning client
Paying for services
What are the various methods of payment I can use to pay for my services?
I accept cash, check, credit card, and pay pal,
To pay by Check: Make your check out to Dennis Hart or Grow And Be Well.
To pay by Credit Card or Pay Pal: Use the payments link and follow the instructions to pay any balance
To have me process your payments for you: Complete the “Credit Card Authorization” form found under the Documents section of the private client area. Once I have the authorization and billing information, I will automatically process your payments for you as outlined in the authorization form.