Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Topic Links
Recovery
Working with me
Practical questions
Safety and your care
Recovery and getting your life back
How do I get my life back?
I know that question well. I asked it myself many times when I was ill. There is no single answer, and no shortcut that works for everyone. What I have seen, in my own recovery and with my clients, is that small changes add up. We start with now. We notice what brings you a little energy or joy, and what drains you. Over time, those small observations become the foundations for a life that sustains you.
Can you recover from ME/CFS, fibromyalgia or long COVID?
I recovered fully from fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, and I have had no symptoms since 2022. I have also seen many people make real progress. But I cannot promise recovery to anyone, and I never would. Every body and every life is different. What I offer is support as you work towards your own recovery, at a pace that feels safe for you.
What do you mean by recovery?
For me, recovery is not a distant finish line. It is about discovering what is possible for you now, and growing from there. It can mean more energy, less fear, a kinder relationship with your body, or simply feeling like yourself again. I write about the nature of recovery on my blog, if you would like to read more.
I've done the work, so why am I still stuck?
This is very common. You may understand pacing, rest and symptom management, and yet still feel stuck. Knowing what to do is not always enough. Our bodies have protective systems that need to feel safe before they can change. Sometimes old patterns, stored stress or a quiet fear of getting better keep the nervous system on alert. That is often where coaching can help.
Working with me
Do I need a diagnosis to work with you?
No. Many people live with exhaustion, pain, brain fog or crashes after activity without a formal diagnosis. You are welcome to explore working with me either way. Please do see your GP about your symptoms too, to rule out anything that needs medical treatment.
Do I have to join The Chrysalis Effect?
There are two ways to work with me. If your main concern is fatigue, pain or exhaustion, with or without a diagnosis, my coaching works alongside The Chrysalis Effect online recovery programme. The programme forms the backbone of our work, and it gives you a community of recoverers who support each other. If you are not yet a member, we will talk about how to join.
If you want to focus on the emotional roots of your symptoms, we can work together without the programme. Not sure which fits you? We can work that out together in your Introductory Session.
Is this coaching or therapy?
It is coaching. You set the direction, and you stay in charge throughout. I am a trauma-informed coach, not a trauma therapist. I bring in teaching, and sometimes a more therapeutic focus, when that will help you most. If you need support that is beyond what I offer, I will help you find it.
What does a Compassionate Inquiry-informed approach mean?
I completed the 330-hour professional year-long training in Compassionate Inquiry, Gabor Maté's approach to working with trauma. It informs how I listen and how I work. I pay close attention to what your body is telling you, not just your words. I help you notice old patterns with compassion, rather than judgement. And I ask your permission before we go deeper.
Will I have to talk about my past or about trauma?
No. We only go where you choose to go. Sometimes it helps to notice how old experiences may be shaping how your body responds now. But I do not take you back into painful memories to relive them. We stay with what is happening now, and we build safety first.
Practical questions
What happens in the Introductory Session?
It is a focused 60-minute session, not a discovery call. We look at where your recovery has stalled and what may be holding you back. You get a real experience of being coached, and some clarity on your next steps. We also decide together whether we are a good fit to keep working together. There is no pressure and no obligation. You can find out more and book on the Introductory Session page.
How much does coaching cost?
A session fee applies to the Introductory Session. After that, I work in packages rather than single sessions, because recovery needs time and steady support. I don't list my prices here. When I was ill, I would have made a snap decision based on a price tag, without seeing the value. So we talk about cost during your Introductory Session instead. Payment plans are available, and a sliding scale is possible for a small number of clients on a fixed income. You can read more in Coaching: a cost or an investment?
Where and when do sessions take place?
All sessions are one to one on Zoom, so you can join from the comfort of your own home. I work Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm UK time.
What if I'm too exhausted for a session?
I understand, because I have been there. We can break a session into shorter sections, with rests in between. We go at the pace your body allows. If you struggle to remember what we talked about, I can send you a short written summary afterwards, with your next steps.
Can my partner or carer be involved?
Yes. Recovery affects the whole family, and the people closest to you can make a big difference. You can read more about how I support carers on my Support for Carers page.
What happens between sessions?
The work carries on in your daily life. Each session ends with a question to help you take what we discussed into your week. You stay in charge of booking your sessions, and you can get in touch with me by email between sessions, as set out in our coaching agreement.
Find out about your 60-Minute Introductory Session with Alison McGrathSafety and your care
Does coaching replace my doctor or medical treatment?
No. Coaching sits alongside medical care, not in place of it. I do not diagnose, and I do not give medical advice. If you have not yet seen your GP about your symptoms, please do that first. Neither coaching nor The Chrysalis Effect online recovery programme is an alternative to the treatment of acute medical conditions.
Are you qualified and insured?
Yes. I am an ILM-accredited trauma-informed wellbeing coach and a specialist recovery practitioner with The Chrysalis Effect. I completed the 330-hour professional year-long training in Compassionate Inquiry. Before coaching, I trained and worked as a nurse, and I hold a PhD in the sociology of nursing. I am a member of the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC) and follow its code of ethics. I have regular supervision and professional indemnity insurance. You can read more on my About Alison page, and I am happy to send you the EMCC or The Chrysalis Effect code of ethics on request.
What if we're not a good fit?
That is exactly what the Introductory Session helps us find out. Coaching only works when it is freely chosen, and when we both feel it is right. If my approach is not the best fit for you, I will tell you honestly. Where I can, I will suggest someone else or another approach that may suit you better.
Still have a question?
I'm happy to hear from you. You can get in touch here, or book your Introductory Session.
Find out about your 60-Minute Introductory Session with Alison McGrath
And if you are not ready yet, that is fine too. Recovery needs to go at your pace, so here is one small question to help you step forward today.
What is one small thing that brought you a moment of ease or joy this week?