Helping you to thrive

Find the answers you need to thrive in your leadership and ministry

Meet Donna: Your Partner in Leadership and Growth

I’m Donna, a coach, mentor, and advocate dedicated to helping clergy and faith-based leaders thrive. With over 23 years of pastoral ministry experience, I’ve walked the path you’re on—balancing the demands of leadership, family, and personal growth while navigating the complexities of ministry. I understand the challenges you face because I’ve faced them too.

Throughout my journey, I’ve served in both large and small churches, mentored ministry students, and supported clergy leaders through career transitions, credentialing, and personal development.

At the heart of my work is a belief in the sacred potential of every person. I’m deeply committed to creating inclusive, life-giving spaces where leaders can grow, feel supported, and step fully into their calling.

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone—together, we can help you rediscover the joy and purpose that brought you here in the first place.

The Experience Behind the Coaching

Professional Certified Coach (PCC)

Credentialed by the International Coaching Federation (ICF).

UMC Endorsed Coach:

Endorsed by the United Methodist Endorsing Agency.

Masters Degree

Master’s degree in Leadership and Organizational Development.

Bishop-Appointed Role:

Leadership and Life Coach for the Virginia Annual Conference of the UMC.

Chair of Clergy Effectiveness Team

Supporting clergy growth and effectiveness.

Credentialing Experience:

14 years on the credentialing board for my denomination.

Answers to Your Questions

If you’re considering coaching, group learning, or workshops, you likely have questions about how it all works.

This FAQ section is here to provide clarity and help you understand what to expect. Whether you’re wondering if coaching is the right fit, how to get started, or how to ask your church to support your growth, you’ll find answers here.

And if you don’t see your question listed, feel free to reach out directly—I’m always happy to help.

How does the coaching process work, and what can I expect from a session?

Coaching begins with a discovery call where we’ll discuss your goals, challenges, and how coaching can support you. In each session, we’ll focus on the areas you want to explore—whether that’s navigating leadership challenges, building confidence, or creating balance. Sessions are tailored to your needs, providing actionable insights, tools, and support to help you move forward.

Is Coaching the right fit for me?

Coaching is for anyone who feels ready to grow, overcome challenges, or take the next step in their leadership journey. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward, coaching can provide the clarity and guidance you need. During the discovery call, we can explore whether coaching is the right fit for you.

You don’t need to have all the answers before starting coaching. Many clients come to coaching feeling uncertain or stuck. Together, we’ll explore what’s most important to you and create a plan to move forward.

How can I ask my church or organization to help cover the cost of coaching?

Coaching is an investment in your leadership, but it doesn’t have to be a burden. Many clients successfully secure funding through their church’s professional development budget. You might frame coaching as a valuable investment in your leadership growth and the success of your ministry. If needed, I can help you craft a proposal or provide talking points to share with your leadership team. During our discovery call, I’m happy to help you explore these options.

What’s the difference between individual coaching and group coaching?

Individual coaching focuses entirely on you, providing personalized support and guidance for your unique challenges and goals. Group coaching offers the chance to learn and grow alongside peers, sharing experiences and insights in a collaborative setting. Both approaches are designed to help you thrive, but the right fit depends on your preferences and needs.

What’s the time commitment for coaching?

Most individual coaching agreements last between three and twelve months, depending on your goals and needs. Sessions typically occur every two to four weeks, lasting about an hour. Group coaching and workshops may follow a specific schedule, which will be shared in advance.

What kind of leaders do you work with?

I primarily work with clergy and faith-based leaders, including pastors, directors, and ministry leaders. Whether you’re just starting out, navigating a leadership transition, or preparing for retirement, my coaching is tailored to your unique journey.

Didn’t find the answer you were looking for?

Reach out to me directly via email or schedule a discovery call, and we’ll figure out the best way to support you.

schedule your discovery call

What People Are Saying

Rev. Jae Wuk Cho

I can confidently say that investing in clergy coaching has been one of the best decisions I’ve made as a pastor.

Rev. Lauren Wright

Donna’s coaching has been invaluable in helping me name the desire to move from doing to leading, identifying obstacles and limiting beliefs along the way, and implementing action steps into this new way of leading in ministry.

Rev. Jon Poach

Working with Donna has helped me stay pointed in the right direction in ministry. When anxiety or ego try to deviate me from effective, grounded ministry, Donna's coaching has helped me to stay on track.

Your leadership journey matters, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you’re seeking clarity, balance, or a path forward, coaching can provide the support and tools you need to thrive.

Let’s start with a conversation. Schedule your free discovery call today and take the first step toward confident, purposeful leadership.