About Me

I Know What It's Like to Stand at a Crossroads

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Alison McCarthy

I’m Alison, a certified life coach passionate about helping people navigate change with clarity and courage.
With a background in entrepreneurship and over a decade in operations, I bring both strategy and heart to every session.
I founded Brave Transitions to support bold decisions and meaningful growth, because your next chapter deserves intention.

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What Makes Me Different

I Don’t Just Give Advice, I Help You Build Skills

This isn’t about me telling you what to do. It’s about you developing:

  • Stress management techniques that actually work
  • Goal-setting skills that keep you motivated
  • Emotional resilience to handle setbacks
  • Confidence in your ability to navigate challenges

I Understand the Real Struggle

I know university stress isn’t just about academics. It’s about:

  • Managing homesickness while building a new life
  • Balancing social pressure with academic demands
  • Dealing with imposter syndrome
  • Figuring out who you are as an adult
  • Handling anxiety about your future

I Focus on Your Emotional Wellbeing

45% of college students experience more than average stress during the transition from high school to university. I help you:

  • Identify your personal stress triggers
  • Build a “coping toolkit” with multiple strategies
  • Reframe negative thoughts
  • Create sustainable balance
  • Develop self-compassion

My Approach

Sincere But Direct

We don’t do fluff. We get real about:

  • What you’re actually feeling (not what you think you “should” feel)
  • What’s keeping you stuck
  • What your next brave step is

Skills-Based & Practical

Every session includes:

  • Understanding what’s happening emotionally
  • Learning specific coping techniques
  • Creating actionable steps
  • Building confidence through practice

You Stay in Control

I’m not here to make decisions for you. I’m here to help you:

  • Trust yourself
  • Build your own problem-solving skills
  • Develop resilience that lasts beyond university
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My Qualifications

Education:

  • B.Com Honours in Entrepreneurship & Marketing Management (North-West University)
  • Certified Life Coach
  • Certified Teen Life Coach
  • Certified Group Coach

Registration:

  • COMENSA Registered (Coaches and Mentors of South Africa)

Experience:

  • Personal experience navigating multiple major life transitions
  • Specialized training in transition coaching and emotional wellness
  • Understanding of South African university system and unique pressures