Introductory Coaching Agreement

Parties and purpose

This agreement is between Mike Berning (“Coach”) and the client identified in the intake (“Client”). Coaching supports reflection, goal development, decisions, and practical action. The parties will discuss the Client’s goals and expectations together.

Nature of coaching

Coaching is not psychotherapy, diagnosis, medical treatment, or legal or financial advice. It does not replace qualified professional care. Specific outcomes are not guaranteed.

The Coach holds an iPEC Certified Professional Coach certification. This agreement does not represent that the Coach currently holds an active ICF credential.

Responsibilities

The Coach will provide respectful, attentive coaching and communicate honestly about qualifications and service boundaries.

The Client chooses what to discuss, may decline any question or exercise, and retains responsibility for personal decisions and actions. Both parties may raise concerns or request changes to the coaching approach.

Introductory session and future services

The introductory session is free, with no obligation to purchase further services. Its duration and meeting method will be confirmed before the appointment.

Any paid engagement requires a separate written schedule stating session length, frequency, fees, payment timing, cancellation charges, and refund terms. Agreeing to this introductory session does not authorize charges or recurring billing.

Please give advance notice when cancelling or rescheduling. No cancellation fee applies to the free introductory session.

Confidentiality

The Coach will protect information shared in coaching. Disclosure may occur with the Client’s written permission, when legally required, or when necessary to respond to an imminent or likely danger to the Client or another person. Where practical and lawful, the Coach will discuss a necessary disclosure with the Client first.

Coaching confidentiality does not necessarily create legal privilege. Any employer or other sponsor arrangement requires a separate agreement specifying what information may be shared.

Technology and records

Before coaching begins, the Coach will explain the communication tools, record storage, retention period, and relevant service providers used.

Neither party will record sessions without the other’s explicit consent. The Coach will not submit identifiable session content to AI tools, enable AI transcription, or use recordings for training, demonstrations, or marketing without separate, specific consent.

Ending coaching

Either party may end the coaching relationship at any time by written notice. The Client may also stop a session. Any financial consequences of ending a paid engagement must be specified in its separate written terms.

Acknowledgment

I have read this agreement, had the opportunity to ask questions, and understand the nature and limits of coaching. I voluntarily agree to participate.