We checked in with KaSandra Lopez, a former CPEC Alumni, and asked her what she thought of her experience with the Professional Life Coach Certification program...

Where Were You Before You Found Coaching?

A few years ago, I was working my 9-to-5 job, designing trainings for adult learners.

These programs were rooted in trauma-informed practices, executive functioning frameworks, and strategies to build interpersonal skills—work that felt meaningful, but I sensed there was something deeper calling me.

At the time, I was already aware of coaching through my training development work.

The more I built those trainings, the more I realized how powerful coaching truly was—not just for others, but for me too. It lit something up in me.

That “passion button” clicked, and I knew in my gut that coaching wasn’t just a tool I wanted to teach—it was a path I needed to walk.

What Made You Choose CPEC Over Other Programs?

In a serendipitous way, it felt like CPEC chose me.

At the time, I was exploring different coaching programs and having conversations with my manager about where I wanted to grow. I was doing my research, making lists, and imagining what my coaching journey could look like.

And then, by the sprinkle of the coaching fairies, something unexpected happened—YesEmpower began partnering with my organization.

As part of that collaboration, I was offered the opportunity to join the CPEC program.

It was one of those moments where the timing, the alignment, and the support all came together in a way that felt meant to be.

What Was the Training Actually Like?

I wasn’t really sure what to expect going into the training. I was excited about the resources and the knowledge I would gain — but the training ended up exceeding my expectations.

I learned that coaching is so much more than just asking questions and listening.

It’s a space for growth—for both the person being coached and the coach themselves. During our cohort practice sessions, I began to notice a pattern in my own approach.

I had a tendency to ask closed-ended questions, thinking I was opening up the conversation — when in reality, I was unintentionally creating dead ends.

My mentor helped me recognize these patterns and supported me in building new habits and practices.

One of the most powerful lessons I learned was to stay present and let go of the pressure to ask the “perfect” question.

The program was delivered virtually, which turned out to be a gift. I was able to connect with coaches from different parts of the state, each bringing their own unique lens and experience.

The classes were well thought out, ran smoothly, and were led by coaches who were not only knowledgeable, but deeply supportive throughout my journey.

How Did It Change You — Personally and Professionally?

Coaching didn’t just give me tools—it gave me a new lens for how I show up in my relationships, with my colleagues, and most importantly, with myself.

Personally, I began to find confidence from within. I started to believe more deeply in my coaching skills, and for the first time, I truly began to appreciate my ADHD—not as a limitation, but as a unique part of my strength.

Professionally, I noticed myself asking more powerful questions in meetings, holding space in more intentional ways, and showing up with a greater sense of presence and grace.

It wasn’t just about learning to coach—it was about becoming someone who leads with curiosity, compassion, and courage.

Where Are You Now?

The CPEC training prepared me for the next step in my professional coaching journey. Since completing the program, I’ve continued my learning through the ADD Coaching Academy to deepen my understanding of coaching through an ADHD lens.

I’m incredibly grateful—and thrilled—to announce the launch of my coaching business: Embrace Your ADHD Brain.

It’s a space where women who have been diagnosed with ADHD later in life, or who are experiencing ADHD-like symptoms, can come to better understand how their brain works and begin identifying their unique strengths.

Embrace Your ADHD Brain is where women learn to find their power within their ADHD experience—not in spite of it.

Coaching helped me rewrite my own narrative, and now I’m here to help others do the same. This isn’t just work—it’s purpose.

I’m still growing, still learning, and still unlearning—but now, I’m doing it with tools, a community, and a sense of direction I didn’t have before. Starting Embrace Your ADHD Brain is just the beginning of what I know will be a long, meaningful path.

Want Your Own Coaching Transformation?

KaSandra’s story is just one of many. Whether you’re looking to change careers, deepen your leadership skills, or finally step into a calling you’ve felt for years, the Certified Professional Empower Coach (CPEC) program is designed to meet you where you are—and walk with you as you grow.

You don’t need to have it all figured out.

You just need the courage to take the first step.

Ready to explore what’s possible?

👉 Learn more about the CPEC Life Coach Certification.

Your next chapter doesn’t have to be a mystery. It can be a choice.

And we’d be honored to be part of that journey with you. ✨

We’ve also put together a free guide to help you explore your options and take the next step.

🎁 Get the Life Coaching Career Starter Pack Below!

FREE KIT DOWNLOAD
The Life Coaching Career Starter Pack

Includes:

* How to Become a Certified Life Coach
* Checklist — 7 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Certification Program
* 5 Career Paths for Certified Coaches