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Meet Our Coaches
SCHEDULE A FREE GET-ACQUAINTED SESSION! Find out if Life Coaching is for you by scheduling a Free Get-Acquainted Session with one of our coaches. Look over the list of coaches below and find one with areas of interest and expertise that match your needs. Then click on the link provided. You'll be redirected to our appointment system to schedule a Free "Get-acquainted" Session with the coach you've chosen. |
The members of our Life Coaching Team come from diverse social services and business backgrounds, but all bring expertise, understanding, passion and energy to their work - helping each of their clients reach their goals and create their best life.
All of our team members offer coaching by phone, and many by instant messaging and e-mail.
In addition, in-person coaching is available from coaches based in the following areas:
| Bremerton, Washington Tacoma, Washington Vancouver, Washington Spokane, Washington Tri-Cities, Washington |
Portland/Beaverton, Oregon Klamath Falls. Oregon Bend/Prineville, Oregon |
Learn more about our coaches and their areas of expertise, coaching options and locations below:
Laura Ness, M.A., RAS
Areas of expertise:
• Work-life balance
• Family Life/Parenting
• Life transitions
• Health issues & wellness
• Spiritual Issues
Coaching provided:
• By phone
• By E-Mail
• In-person
• Instant messaging
Location:
Central Oregon
I earned my Master of Arts at Pepperdine University in Clinical Psychology, emphasis Marriage and Family Therapy. My professional background includes 15 years of counseling experience. My clients feel the energy of our sessions, which empowers them to take control of their lives. As a successful student, Natural Helper, volunteer, and Therapist, I have experienced how taking an hour per week to focus on what is important, can give an individual the courage to make change.
As a Life Coach, I offer transition coaching to those who find themselves seeking a more balanced life. My coaching style is to be present and focused. I provide support and a safety net for positive change.
Scott Willard, MA, CADC II, SRC
Areas of expertise:
• Work-life balance
• Career Development/Career Change
• Life transitions
• Health issues & wellness
• Spiritual Issues
Coaching provided:
• By phone
• Instant messaging
• In-person
Location:
Central Oregon
My family and I live, play and work in Central Oregon. We thrive on getting outdoors to run, kayak, fly fish and explore. A lot of the work I do in Life Coaching is about encouraging my clients to play and explore- we call this discovery. I love it when I am working with a client and they tell me that they can’t even begin to imagine what their best, preferred future looks like, it’s too far out there. That is imagining a life of abundance.
I have a very rich educational experience that includes studying theology, in seminary, counseling and Organizational Systems and Renewal at Seattle University. Professionally, I have spent over 20 years in social services. About half of this time has been spent in senior leadership, managing or directing non-profit, government based and private agencies. My education and experience has really come together to allow me to be of service to those looking to find work-life balance, tools to navigate constant change and transition whitewater, and those on a quest for purpose and meaning.
Kathleen Pantoja
Areas of expertise:
• Life transitions
• Health issues & wellness
• Women's Issues
Coaching provided:
• By phone
• In-person
Location:
Tacoma, Washington
I’d love to be a partner in your transformational journey. My personal journey has taught me the importance of achieving balance socially, spiritually, physically, and emotionally. I’ve learned to adapt to adversity and achieve resiliency while making a positive change in the world. Together, we can blast through limiting beliefs, awaken your potential, and turn desire into action.
I have 10 years professional experience serving non-profit organizations, advocating for individuals with mental and physical disabilities, and promoting civic engagement. I have facilitated support groups for new mothers, individuals living with a mental illness, and those who have chosen a path of recovery from addiction. I have devoted much of my professional career to providing older adults an opportunity to become involved in ways that are personally meaningful while providing solutions to some of our most intractable social needs.
Laurie Schoffstall, M.Ed, LMHC, CMHS
Areas of expertise:
• Family Life/Parenting
• Teen life coaching
• Women's Issues
Coaching provided:
• By phone
• By E-Mail
• In-person
Location:
Tri-Cities, Washington
My family and I live in the Tri-Cities area of Washington. I have an active family and keep very busy with my daughter's competitive softball team and my son's various sports activities. I balance this by spending time with friends, taking time for yoga or long walks and traveling throughout the Northwest, enjoying all that it has to offer. I truly feel like this is the time of my life and I look forward to each new day.
I work with my clients to motivate and challenge them in achieving their goals to be the best they can be. Those I work with appreciate my genuine approach, humor, compassion and ability to work with them to realize their potential. You are capable of accomplishing great things and I know you will find this to be a fulfilling experience.
With a Psychology degree from Washington State University and a M.Ed. in Counseling and Guidance, I have over 16 years experience as a credentialed behavioral professional. The tools and experience I have gained in my career has given me the foundation to empower others to draw on their strengths and live the life they have dreamed of.
William Utley, B.S., CADCI, QMHA
Areas of expertise:
• Life transitions
• Work-life balance
• Teen life coaching
Coaching provided:
• By phone
• In-person
Location:
Klamath Falls, Oregon
Just a little about me as a person... As a single parent (my proudest accomplishment), I enjoy spending time with family. A favorite past time is riding motorcycles through the winding roads of the Pacific Northwest with my father and brother. I always look forward to holidays and summer barbeques with my family and friends.
Several years ago, I decided that I wanted to make a difference and began working in alcohol and drug treatment. I am a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Oregon Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology. I work in social services, and have since 2003.
My skills include connecting with others, motivation, organization, and an analytical mind.
I am motivated to succeed. I have an ability to help others find their own internal motivators. I am analytical and very organized and bring this into my working relationships as strength. I will bring all of my skills and expertise to the table to help you reach your potential.
Maureen Bissell, ATA
Areas of expertise:
• Life transitions
• Work-life balance
• Career Development/Career Change
Coaching provided:
• By phone
• By E-Mail
• In-person
Location:
Bremerton, Washington
Life Coaching is my passion, because I love helping others see their true worth. I chose this field because I find great joy in walking beside people on their journey to the life they envision. I believe everyone has the ability to create the life they desire and nothing brings me greater pleasure than working alongside of someone during the process of discovering their true self and where they truly want to go with their lives. I approach my work with humor, compassion, inspiration, encouragement and the desire to help others live the life they deserve to live.
I am a Washington native. My family and I share a deep love of travel, getting out as much as we can in our RV, camping around the state.
In addition to my work as a Life Coach, I work as a Support Specialist for childcare providers, providing technical assistance, conflict resolution through communication training and relationship support with parents.
I received my ATA in Human Services from Skagit Valley College and have worked in the helping field for over 10 years. After moving to Kitsap County in 2005, I received my coaching certification from Coach Training Alliance in 2006. I have coached clients ranging from teens looking for direction in their lives, to couples that wanted to change the way they communicate with each other.
Jennifer Hegel, M.S.
Areas of expertise:
• Life transitions
• Work-life balance
• Health issues & wellness
• Women's Issues
Coaching provided:
• By phone
• Instant messaging
I call the beautiful Inland Northwest home, where I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also have a passion for making things, whether I’m cooking or working in my craft studio. I am also an avid reader and love learning.
I really enjoy helping people take action to become more true to themselves and to live their lives to the fullest. I realize that this means something different for each person, and that the path to fulfillment in life takes a varying form for each individual. As a life coach I hope to help you recognize and make use of your own interests, strengths and resources to make the most of your life. I am open to new ideas and deeply respect people with diverse values and goals. I will bring these qualities to my work as I support you in achieving your own personal transformation and success.
My educational background is in psychology and counseling, and I also have experience in women’s and gender studies. Since graduating with my master’s degree I have primarily worked in social services, which has allowed me to work with numerous people in a very enriching, enjoyable way. I have made an effort in my work to educate and encourage people in developing, making progress toward, and achieving goals that are relevant to their lives.
Stephanie Neumann, B.A.
Areas of expertise:
• Self-Confidence/Self-Esteem
• Career Development/Career Change
• Interpersonal Relationships
Coaching provided:
• By phone
I believe relationships are the most important element of life. The most difficult relationship to stabilize is the one with one’s self. I find it essential to overcome personal fear, and channel energy in a positive direction for a more fulfilling life. My friends, co-workers, and family often tell me they appreciate my ability to articulate back to them what they have told me. I build my foundation on my faith in Christ, and the importance of forgiving one’s self, as well as others.
I earned a Bachelors Degree in Public Relations and Religious Studies from Gonzaga University. I am a life-long learner and have truly learned from life - the good, the bad and the ugly. I use my experience of juggling being a single mother, young professional, and public figure for a non-profit agency to help others reach their personal goals.
Roberta Nestaas, MSW
Areas of expertise:
• Life transitions
• Work-life balance
• Career Development/Career Change
• Spiritual Issues
• Women's Issues
Coaching provided:
• Primarily by phone
Becoming a Life Coach seemed like the natural extension of a fulfilling career in nonprofit work and rich life experiences. I view life coaching as an opportunity to form a partnership with you as you explore your personal, spiritual, and professional potential. I don’t claim to have all the answers but I know a lot of the questions!
My educational background is an MSW and I have been in nonprofit management positions for over 25 years, including 20 as the President and CEO of Lutheran social service agencies in the Northwest. I have served on national and statewide boards and was one of the first women CEO’s in the Lutheran network. I’ve taught, mentored, consulted, preached, counseled and seem to gravitate to leadership positions in both my professional and volunteer work. Experience, Harvard Business Review, and great mentors have taught me well. Personally, I’ve lived and traveled in other cultures, been a caregiver to aging parents, and proud to be a stepparent. Leading and serving in a faith-based organization has deepened and expanded my spirituality and increased my understanding and compassion for people of all faith traditions - lay and clergy.
Judy Werner, MSW
Areas of expertise:
• Work-life balance
• Family Life/Parenting
• Life transitions
• Health issues & wellness
Coaching provided:
• By phone
• In-person
Location:
Beaverton, Oregon
I’ve lived in California, Oregon, Idaho, New York and Australia and created an engaged life in all of those places. New experiences, whether personal or professional, internal or external, bring me excitement and satisfaction. In Oregon, I’m on the Board of a non-profit and volunteer for a theater company. I love to walk, read, and explore ideas with my friends and family. Family life and being a mother, stepmother, mother-in-law and grandmother has a source of both challenge and joy for me.
I’ve lived a life rich with experience, fulfillment, and growth and have a strong belief that we seek to find what is true and meaningful for ourselves. I’m committed to the notion that we all can use support as we focus on achieving our goals and navigating life’s challenges and that we respond to those challenges best when the solutions are uniquely our own. I get great satisfaction from being part of the process as people explore their goals, next steps, creating meaning and purpose, and experiencing the joy of creating the life they want to live.
My career has been spent supporting people who want to live more fully and achieve their goals in their professional lives, family lives, internal lives and interpersonal lives. In support of people working toward their goals and dreams, I’ve learned that planning and taking practical steps are the keys to achievement. I’m known for my warmth, intelligence, and my skill at finding clarity in all situations.
Laura Biviano, B.A.
Areas of expertise:
• Life transitions
• Work-life balance
• Health issues & wellness
Coaching provided:
• By phone
• In-person
• Instant messaging
Location:
Spokane, Washington
I am a (almost) lifelong resident of the Pacific Northwest. My fiancé and I are avid outdoor enthusiast who thrive on camping, hiking, rock climbing and exploring the incredible world outside our backdoor! Two of my greatest passions are teaching yoga as a certified instructor and traveling and discovering new places all over the world. My yoga practice has taught me the importance of balance and focus in life. It has helped me to slow down the torrent of daily dilemmas and focus on what is most important in my life.
I have had the privilege of traveling to 11 different countries throughout the world. My travels have opened my eyes to the wonders of the world and its infinite possibilities, and the basic human sameness we all possess no matter our creed or color. I have taken a windy path to truly discover what my life goals are, and will use my journey, both physical and spiritual, to help guide you on your path to discovering your best self.
I received my Bachelors degree from St. Bonaventure University in New York State and am nearing completion of a Masters from Eastern Washington University. All of my professional experience has been in the educational or non-profit sector, as I truly value the importance of not only broadening our mind, but also using it to help one another. My educational and professional experience has come together to make me an ideal person for navigating the challenging balancing act of work, life and taking care of ourselves and those we care about.
Larissa Brown
Areas of expertise:
• Life transitions
• Work-life balance
• Health issues & wellness
• Teen life coaching
Coaching provided:
• By phone
• Instant messaging
• In-person
Location:
Vancouver, Washington
I’m a language enthusiast and an avid world traveler who always returns home to the Northwest U.S. I love learning new and exciting things, and am adamant in the belief that change is a natural, healthy part of life – an adventure that awaits.
My life is full of enriching experiences, from my education, to my travels around the globe meeting a diversity of people and cultures, to working with clients and ESL students carving their path to success. My work with multicultural peoples has led me to approach things with a careful, thorough and open mind. I enjoy not only the challenges of my job, which help motivate me to improve my methods, but the fulfillment that comes from my clients’ accomplishments.
Together, we can embrace the challenge, explore the possibilities, and shape goals that will carry you through to your success.
Trina Decker
Areas of expertise:
• Life transitions
• Family Life/Parenting
• Interpersonal Relationships
Coaching provided:
• By phone
I am blessed everyday to live a beautiful peaceful life in a small community in Oregon. Each day is brought to a close with a beautiful sunset over a lake and each day starts with the wonder that nature brings to my door.
I have worked for over 13 years integrating life experience with education to inspire victims of domestic violence, adolescent parents, a large variety of people in low-income situations, humans with addictions of every kind, and people who live in homeless conditions towards a full and rewarding life. We all have the opportunity to reach out and live the awesome life we were destined to have.
Teresa Stroup, BA, QMHA
Areas of expertise:
• Spiritual issues
• Family Life/Parenting
• Life transitions
• Work-life balance
Coaching provided:
• In-person
• By phone
Location:
Klamath Falls, Oregon
Welcome to Life Coaching… I live in a beautiful area surrounded by lakes and forests in Southern Oregon. My life has been filled with purpose, mission and ministry. I have traveled through war torn countries and heard the stories ex–child soldiers as they work to re-gain their lives and learn to live a life of hope and vision.
I am a graduate of Marylhurst University and have enjoyed many training opportunities over the past 20 years. I have been involved with social services and ministry for over 25 years. Much of my work has been with men coping with anger and violence issues. This has given me a deep understanding of men’s issues as well as compassion for those who have suffered trauma.
Brandi Rasmussen
Areas of expertise:
• Life transitions
• Family Life/Parenting
• Women's issues
• Teen life coaching
Coaching provided:
• In-person
• By phone
• By E-Mail
• Instant messaging
Location:
Central Oregon
My family and I are Oregonians; we enjoy the recreation and beautiful scenery it has to offer. Some of my interests include photography, horseback riding, watching my children’s sports, cooking and reading. I have always had an interest in helping the community and for standing up for my beliefs. Others have described me as dependable, honest and I also believe I have an open mind.
Most of my professional experience stems from 18 years of community and customer service, such as, Life Skills Facilitating, Administrative and Volunteer work. I have worked closely with youth, helping them to get over their past and move forward by getting the most out of their rehabilitation. This experience has been very rewarding to me personally and has taught me a lot about raising my own children. I enjoy seeing people accomplish their visions of themselves as well as supporting their efforts to become who they want to be. As a Professional Life Coach, you can rely on me as being a genuine, supportive person who will listen actively to your objectives.