Certified Success Coach, Symbiosis and Certified Coaches Alliance
Certified Positive Psychology Practitioner, School of Positive Transformation
Bachelor’s Degree, Marketing Communications, American University
This is my story
My 30 years of experience navigating the challenges and opportunities that come from working for large multinational companies have taught me that there is no greater skill and asset for success than active listening. Throughout my career as a client counselor and team leader, my greatest insights came from simply being quiet, listening to what was being said (and not being said) and asking questions to further my understanding. This approach has helped me to hear the unspoken needs that, when addressed, can unleash an organizations’ or individuals’ power to achieve their goals. What’s better than being truly heard?
Part of my desire to coach has come from watching my sons be coached throughout their basketball careers…and there was a lot of basketball and so much observing! The coaches that unlocked the best of them focused less on those areas that needed “fixing’ and more of on their strengths. That strength-based approach is what drew me to the study of positive psychology and is fundamental to how I grow each day and help others to strengthen the muscles they need to achieve their goals.
My Coaching Approach
I approach coaching with a clear focus on goal setting, identifying and refining a long-term goal, and then very specific actionable steps toward reaching that goal. I tend to refine goals by asking people to consider what achieving the designated goal will mean to them, how it would feel to achieve the goal and what is standing in the way of them reaching the goal today. I often use a GROW approach to initial sessions: Goal. Reality. Options. Way forward.
Most of my work with clients will be to identify their primary strengths – those traits, powers and gifts that have always worked well for them. Then, I work with them to identify secondary strengths – areas that are present in their character but if strengthened can help them achieve their goals with greater ease and confidence. My approach is always to strengthen what is “right” as opposed to dwelling on what is “wrong.” I use some proven positive psychology resources and tools to coach a client to broaden and build those strengths. I will introduce a VIA strength assessment to clients for their consideration.
What my clients say
“I highly recommend the services offered at Ama La Vida. My coach, Ame, was beyond helpful and resourceful during my time of need. She provided me with great advice as she helped guide me through my career exploration. I could not have done it without her!” – Jenna-Lynn K.
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“Before finding Ama La Vida, I was lost and confused in terms of what I should do for a career path. I knew I wanted to pivot, but I didn’t know what direction to go in. My coach, Ame, helped me discover my true gifts and passions which led to the realization that I did not want to go into the field that I had originally planned, but wanted to become a certified coach myself. Ame helped me navigate family pressure, fears, challenges, and obstacles with grace and encouraged me to find the perfect coaching certification program that would support my coaching career (which I am now enrolled in!). I’m so grateful for ALV and Ame knowing that without her support and expertise it would’ve taken me way longer to get here. I highly recommend ALV if you are in the midst of a career transition!” – Natasha V.
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“I didn’t expect to have such a fun and insightful time with Ama La Vida! I learned so much, and Ame (my coach) gave me the confidence in myself and my abilities that I didn’t know I have. Such an enjoyable experience!” – Parri F.
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“I have loved working with Ame. She continually encouraged and challenged me to be better!” – Megan M.
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“Ame was great in helping me move forward with the career that I want. I have only had 2 jobs and had never done the resume and interview process. But with her guidance, I’m sure I’ll land a job soon and I am more confident in the whole hiring process.” – Scott V.
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“My coaching experience with Cindy and Ame was fantastic. Their support and guidance was so impactful and I’ll be forever grateful!” – Abby C.
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“I grew more from 1:1 coaching than I would have from researching content alone! Thanks for helping me to level up in my job search.” – Erica W.
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“My experience with Ama la Vida was so beneficial and exactly what I needed at this point in my career to help me navigate this crossroads. The recruitment team was responsive and paired me with an amazing coach that matched my background and what I was looking to get from the program. Ame was an amazing coach – every session was productive and struck the balance between career therapy and mapping a structured plan to achieve my goals. Walking away I feel like I have clarity on my career ambitions, the right roles, and the tools with an improved resume and LinkedIn presence and strategy to land my next role.” – Lauren K.
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“Working with Ama La Vida and Ame was awesome. She helped me tap into my skillsets and confidence to nail my dream job. It’s tough in this job market but I know continuing this journey will help me reach my goal.” – Charnisse T.
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“Working with Ame and Ama La Vida significantly helped me figure out where my passions lay and directed me toward a path of fulfillment. I was in a job I didn’t love and had no idea what I wanted to do with my career. With a little direction and digging, we uncovered my strengths, weaknesses, and passions and eventually landed on some really great career options. It was amazing having guidance through this journey and honestly, if I tried doing this on my own I would probably have given up and remained complacent.” – Alexandra S.
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