Questions from men and dads about coaching
Common questions about performance coaching in Devon, Cornwall and online. If you can’t find your answer, email hello@jeffdawson.co.uk.
Free, confidential and no sales pitch.
About coaching
What do you mean by “performance coaching”?
Performance coaching is about how you think, decide and act under pressure. It’s practical, future-focused work that helps you build clarity, consistency and stronger leadership at home, at work and in yourself.
Who do you work with?
I work with men and dads aged 18 and over, often professionals or business owners, who carry responsibility and want to raise their standard. Most look “fine” on the outside, but they know they’re stuck in patterns that don’t match who they want to be.
Is this therapy or counselling?
No. This is coaching for growth, leadership and performance. My work is relationally led, and the focus is on practical change and forward momentum rather than clinical treatment.
What issues can coaching help with?
Common themes include pressure and stress, overthinking, reactivity, confidence, decision-making, boundaries, communication at home, consistency with habits, and navigating major life changes without losing your headspace.
How do I know if I’m a good fit?
If you want straight talking, practical tools and accountability, and you’re willing to be honest about what’s really going on, you’ll probably get a lot from this. The quickest way to find out is a free 30-minute discovery call.
What are outdoor sessions like?
Outdoor sessions are walk-and-talk coaching in the West Dartmoor area. We agree a route and a meeting point in advance. It’s calm and discreet, and many men find it easier to think clearly side-by-side, with space and movement.
Do outdoor sessions still have structure, or is it just a walk?
They’re structured. You’ll still leave with clarity and next steps. The outdoors simply changes the feel, with less intensity and more space, which can make it easier to get perspective and make decisions.
Practical details
How do I book a session?
I recommend starting with a free 30-minute discovery call. To arrange one, message me on WhatsApp on 07547 897642, email hello@jeffdawson.co.uk or call 01822 661316. Existing clients can book through client login.
Where do you work from in person?
I offer in-person sessions in Tavistock, in a private, purpose-built room on the outskirts of town, and in Saltash, with limited availability. I also offer walk-and-talk sessions in the West Dartmoor area.
Can I work with you online?
Yes. I offer online sessions across the UK, wherever you can get privacy. See how online sessions work.
How much does it cost?
Sessions are £75 for 60 minutes, and payment is required in advance. See pricing.
How long do people usually work with you?
It depends on your goals. Some men come for a short, focused block to reset and make key decisions. Others stay longer to build consistency and keep standards high over time. We’ll review as we go.
What to expect
What happens in the free 30-minute discovery call?
We’ll talk through what’s happening, what you want instead and what’s getting in the way. You can ask questions and get a feel for how I work. If it’s a good fit, we’ll agree the next step. No pressure.
Is coaching confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is central to my work. I won’t share what you tell me without your consent unless I’m legally required to, or there’s a risk of serious harm. I’ll explain these limits before we start.
Will you tell me what to do?
Not in a “guru” way. I’ll challenge you, ask better questions and bring tools that work, but the aim is for you to think clearly and lead yourself, not become dependent on me.
Is this just motivation or “positive thinking”?
No. I’m not here to hype you up for a week and leave you back where you started. This is grounded, practical work on clarity, decisions, habits and accountability, so change actually sticks.
What this isn’t
Is this emergency or crisis support?
No. I’m not an emergency service and I can’t offer immediate crisis support. If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999. For urgent mental health support, call NHS 111 and choose option 2, or call Samaritans free on 116 123, any time.
Do you diagnose mental health conditions or give medical advice?
No. I’m a coach, not a doctor. I don’t diagnose, prescribe or give medical advice. If you’re concerned about medication, risk or a mental health condition, your GP is the right starting point.
Is this couples counselling or family therapy?
No. My work is 1:1 coaching with men and dads. If relationship or family dynamics are part of what’s happening, we can work on your communication, boundaries and leadership.
Still not sure?
That’s exactly what the free 30-minute discovery call is for. We’ll talk through what’s going on, what you want to change and whether my approach is the right fit. No pressure, just a straightforward conversation to help you decide.
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