Something shifts as we age . . .
Sometimes it’s a loss — a relationship, a role, a version of yourself you thought you’d always be. Sometimes it’s more of a question: “Is this it? Is this really who I am now?” And sometimes it’s just a quiet sense that you’ve been putting yourself last for so long, you’ve forgotten what it feels like to come first.
Is This for You?
You might be in the right place if any of these feel familiar . . .
- Retirement hasn’t turned out to be what you imagined — and you’re not sure why.
- You’re navigating a major transition (a move, a loss, a health change) and you’d like some company on that road.
- You’ve spent decades taking care of others and you’re genuinely not sure how to start taking care of yourself.
- You want to feel more confident, more purposeful, or simply more like “you” again.
- You’re tired of feeling like aging is something happening ‘to’ you rather than something you can actively shape.
What working together actually looks like . . .
I bring 30+ years of clinical experience to every conversation — which means I’ve listened to a lot of confusion, worry, and fear. Through all of these conversations, I have learned how to listen not just with my ears, but with my heart. I’m here to work with you.
We work on real problems, together . . .
Coaching is a dynamic and genuine back-and-forth. You bring your situation; I share my experience, my perspective, and most of all, my sense of humor. Together, we’ll find a path forward and take the initial steps that set you in the right direction, map in hand, guidance always available.
You’ll build skills, not just gain insights . . .
Understanding why something is hard is useful. Knowing what to do about it is better. My approach is always moving toward the practical: What do you need? What’s getting in the way? What would it look like if things were different? And then — what’s one thing you can do this week?
Compassion is the foundation. Humor is the secret ingredient . .
Aging stirs up big feelings — grief, frustration, uncertainty, and doubt. I hold all of it with care. While there are always tears of sadness, we will also find tears of laughter and joy to balance those out.
Coaching with me is a space to work through all of it — with honesty, practical tools, and more laughter than you might expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coaching is not therapy — and that’s a good thing.
Therapy is a clinical service provided by licensed providers who diagnose and treat mental health conditions. Coaching is different: it’s forward-looking, action-oriented, and doesn’t require a diagnosis to be valuable. If you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or a significant mental health concern, I will be honest with you about whether coaching or a clinical referral is the better fit. My priority is always what actually helps you.
Confidentiality
Our sessions are confidential. Unless you provide me with written permission otherwise, what you share with me stays with me. There are, however, exceptions to confidentiality. I am ethically bound to notify authorities if I believe you are at risk of harming yourself or someone else, or if you have experienced physical or financial abuse.
Insurance does not cover my services.
Because coaching is not a licensed clinical service, insurance does not cover our work. Sessions are an out-of-pocket investment — and in my experience, the people who invest directly in their own growth tend to show up with more intention and get more out of the work. Have questions about fees or scheduling? Call or email me — I’m happy to talk it through before you commit to anything
Appointments
Unless otherwise agreed upon, all appointments for coaching will be held on Zoom. Appointments are scheduled at a mutually convenient time for both of us.
Cancellation
I set aside time specifically for you. If you need to cancel, please give me 24-hours notice. Failure to provide notice will result in your being charged in full for a missed session.
Payment
My coaching and consulting services are billed by the hour. Payment is expected at the time of service. I take most major credit cards, Venmo, and even checks or cash!
Have additional questions?
Call me for a free 30-minute consultation.
You’ve Earned This.
This stage of life comes with real challenges. It also comes with hard-won wisdom, perspective, and a capacity for growth that younger people are still working toward. Coaching with Dr. Mary is a chance to use all of that — to not just cope with change, but to actively direct it.
You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Book your appointment online or call Dr. Mary directly at (707) 303-6517. Your next chapter is waiting.