I lived most of my life in the mid-west and I'm fascinated, and mostly delighted, with the way folks in west Sonoma County support so many good things, seek to save the earth, and seek personal improvement. The latter does concern me though, because what I see as an outsider is that there are a lot of seekers who are vulnerable to those who proclaim themselves as spiritual guides, life coaches or whatever. I am not jumping in to slander anyone, just to ask that people look before they leap.
Unlike a licensed practitioner of any healing art, a "guide" or "coach" isn't really required by law to show credentials. I have seen cases already in my short time here, where people who have no educational or experiential background that qualifies them to advise anyone, "hang out their shingle" and give very poor advice while posturing with "authority." A weakness in our society is people being willing to follow those in authority, even when the authority is not real. I have seen a few very well-meaning and trusting people fall victim to those who have lead them down some pretty flaky paths.
This is a very hard time for humankind, for the planet, for our nation, our economy. If someone is advising you on a career change you better make sure they have some actual knowledge, that they researched the opportunities in that career, know the average annual income etc., and in short that they aren't just blowing it out their arse because it makes them feel good to get paid for sounding like they know what they're talking about. Any Life Coach or Guide who solicits clients from among their friends is suspect in my book. Ever hear of OBJECTIVITY? Anyone who "counsels" and talks about a third-party they know personally is lacking in professionalism and integrity. I'm just sayin'..... please be careful... it's not just your money spent in session... it could be your job... your relationship... your future.
Sean