Laura Maxwell is a life and relationship coach in West London and online

What attracted you to become a coach?

My personal mental health challenges growing up as well as witnessing people close to me suffer with mental illness.

Where did you train?

I began training at Regent's College London where I did a foundation in psychotherapy.

Then I did a cognitive behaviour coaching course at the Centre for Coaching and finally I got my Diploma in Professional Coaching at Full Circle where I gained my accreditation.

Currently, I am doing a neuroscience and psychiatry course at Imperial College London.

What kind of coaching do you offer?

I offer individual and couples coaching.

How does coaching help?

I focus on the goals of the client, first and foremost clarifying what they really want from life and what they hope to gain from the coaching process.

I aim to help them realise their own self-worth and guide them to achieving a healthy self esteem.

With couples we focus on the key word - compromise. In a world which focuses so heavily on individualism, we sometimes forget how to connect and exist relationally.

What sort of coaching clients do you usually see?

I see both women and men usually around mid 30s to mid 50s

Do you ever suggest books or other materials to clients?

Yes - I am an avid reader and love to recommend books.

My favourite books for couples who are struggling are all by Terry Real. I also love Glennon Doyle and Edith Eger for clients who need to feel more hopeful and want to build on resilience.

What do you like about being a coach?

I love to learn about people and hear their stories. I will listen to anyone who wants to talk because I find it so interesting. I love to offer guidance that is helpful.

What is less pleasant?

It is always hard when the client doesn't believe in the process. I can tell when they are not committed, and it can sometimes be frustrating.

What is one life lesson you try to live by?

It is OK not to be OK.

What do you wish people knew about coaching?

That it can help with a whole plethora of issues, from mundane to the most profoundly life-changing. It is a flexible skill that can be taught and thus make daily life more manageable.

Do you have a favourite client testimonial or particular success story?

A client once messaged me that I helped her realise that what is important in life is the getting back up again after a 'tumble'.

Contact Laura here

Meet more Welldoing coaches