Hiring A Decluttering Coach
Getting Started with a Decluttering Coach
A Speed of Life Decluttering Coach guides you through Dana K. White's No-Mess Decluttering Process, helping you remove clutter from your home using proven strategies. Unlike doing it alone, a coach provides accountability, emotional support, and expert guidance to help you make progress without feeling overwhelmed.
Professional organizers often do the work for you, organizing your space while you provide input. A decluttering coach teaches you the skills to declutter independently, addressing both the physical clutter and the emotional obstacles that created it. You do the work with coaching support, which creates lasting change.
You might benefit from coaching if you feel paralyzed by clutter, don't know where to start, have tried decluttering before without lasting success, or need accountability and support through the emotional process of letting go.
Every coach has their own system, but generally they start with a conversation about your goals, challenges, and the spaces that cause you the most stress. Then you begin working together using the No Mess Decluttering Process, focusing on visible spaces first so you see immediate progress.
The best preparation is having a trash bag and a donation box ready. Beyond that, just come with an open mind and a willingness to make decisions about your belongings.
Yes! Our coaches are trained specifically to help people who feel overwhelmed by mess. There's no judgment; only support and practical strategies that work in real life.
About Our Coaching Approach
This is Dana K. White's signature method for preventing a bigger mess while decluttering. You work through five clear steps in any space, and at any point you need to stop, you've made progress, never leaving things worse than when you started.
The Container Concept means your home, rooms, drawers, and shelves ARE containers with limits. Once a container is comfortably full, you've reached its capacity. The container makes the hard decluttering decisions for you; if it doesn't fit, it can't stay.
Your clutter threshold is the amount of stuff you personally can keep under control easily. It's different for everyone. When you're over your threshold, your house feels out of control, no matter how hard you try. Decluttering below your threshold makes everything manageable.
This method was created by someone who isn't naturally organized, for people who aren't naturally organized. There are no complicated systems, no expensive containers required, and no expectation of perfection. It focuses on decluttering first, then dealing with what's left using strategies that work in real life.
Coaching Sessions and Logistics
Yes! Most of our certified coaches offer both in-person and virtual sessions via Zoom or other meeting software. Virtual coaching is surprisingly effective; you do the physical work while your coach guides, encourages, and helps you make decisions.
Most sessions are 1-4 hours, with 1-2 hours being most common for virtual sessions. Longer than 4 hours can lead to decision fatigue. We work at your pace and energy level.
It depends on your home size, clutter level, and goals. Some people see dramatic improvement in one session, while others work with a coach over several weeks or months. The beauty of Dana's method is that every session leaves your space better than before; there's no minimum commitment.
Rates vary by coach and location, and many coaches offer package deals for multiple sessions. A good first step is to check out our coach directory, as many coaches list their pricing either in their directory profile or on their website.
Never. Our coaches understand the struggle because many have been there themselves. You'll find only empathy, encouragement, and zero judgment. We celebrate every bit of progress you make!
The Decluttering Process
We start where visitors to your home would see first when they arrive, usually the entryway, living room, or dining room. Starting in visible spaces helps you see progress immediately and motivates you to continue.
Because working on a hidden closet all day means you're still embarrassed to answer the doorbell when you are done. Visible progress is motivating for you and your family. Plus, visible spaces get cluttered more frequently, so learning to maintain them first is key.
No! You make all the final decisions about your belongings. A coach's role is to ask helpful questions, offer perspective, and support you in your decision-making, not to force you to part with anything.
That's okay! We work through what you ARE ready to release. Often, once easy decisions are made and you see the progress, harder decisions become easier. There's no pressure to be perfect.
Spaces do get re-cluttered, especially visible ones, but it won't be the same. After decluttering, what accumulates is usually just "procrasticlutter" aka things that migrated there temporarily. It takes much less time to reset because the hard decluttering work is done.
Specific Challenges
The coaches focus on your belongings and shared spaces. They don't declutter other people's personal items without their consent. However, they can coach you on strategies for addressing family clutter respectfully.
The coaches will help you establish systems and boundaries that work for your household. Teaching family members simple habits (like the 5-minute pickup) helps everyone maintain the progress together.
Yes! Many of our coaches specialize in working with ADHD clients, and the method's clear steps and immediate progress are particularly helpful for ADHD brains. The "no mess" approach prevents the overwhelm that often stops ADHD folks in their tracks.
This is exactly what the coaches do best! The five-step process gives you a clear starting point every time. You don't have to figure it out, just follow the steps, and your coach will guide you through.
Most decluttering advice comes from naturally organized people and doesn't work for the rest of us. This method was created by someone who struggled with clutter, specifically for people who struggle. Plus, having a coach that follows this process provides accountability and support that solo attempts lack.
After Coaching & Long-Term Success
You'll learn skills and habits during coaching that carry forward. Simple daily practices like the 5-minute pickup, dealing with dishes and laundry daily, and using "take it there now" prevent re-cluttering.
You can always schedule additional sessions with your coach! Many clients return for seasonal decluttering, help with new projects, or just a motivational boost. Some coaches also offer ongoing maintenance packages, which might be a good option for you.
Life happens, and spaces will need attention from time to time. But once you've decluttered below your clutter threshold using Dana's methods and supported by your coach, maintenance becomes much easier. You'll know exactly what to do when clutter starts accumulating.
Becoming A Decluttering Coach
Is This Right for Me?
A Speed of Life Decluttering Coach guides clients through Dana K. White's No Mess Decluttering Process, helping overwhelmed people make real progress in their homes. You provide accountability, emotional support, decision-making guidance, and teach clients the skills to maintain their spaces independently.
No! In fact, coaches who've struggled with clutter themselves often make the best coaches because they truly understand the challenges clients face. Dana herself created these methods as someone who wasn't naturally organized, specifically for people like us.
The most effective coaches have done the decluttering work on themselves first. You don't need a perfect home, but you should have experienced personal transformation using these methods. That lived experience gives you invaluable insight and empathy that naturally organized people simply can't offer.
Reading the books is a wonderful start and shows you understand the philosophy, but the training course goes much deeper. It covers how to apply the methods with clients (which is very different from using them yourself), how to handle emotional obstacles, assessment of client needs, and business skills.
Empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental attitude are essential. Good coaches are also encouraging, able to ask helpful questions rather than making decisions for clients, and comfortable holding space for clients as they work through emotional challenges. Strong communication skills and a genuine passion for helping others are crucial.
Absolutely! Many coaches start part-time and build their practice gradually. You can schedule sessions around your current job: evenings, weekends, or just a few sessions per week. Virtual coaching makes this even more flexible.
Yes! The professional organizing market is expected to reach $28.46 billion by 2031 with 11.61% annual growth. While there is a difference between a professional organizer and a decluttering coach, that is a good indicator of the potential in getting trained and certified.
Many people know they need help, but have been too embarrassed to hire someone who might not understand their struggles. That's exactly who Speed of Life coaches are trained to help.
Training and Certification
The course is a comprehensive training program created by Dana K. White that teaches you her five-step No Mess Decluttering Process, how to work with overwhelmed clients, and how to build a coaching business. Successful completion allows you to take the certification course, if you choose to do so.
The course covers Dana's decluttering methods in depth, the unique needs of overwhelmed clients, how to guide clients through the process, how to handle emotional obstacles to decluttering, assessment techniques, coaching skills, and business-building strategies. You'll learn both the "what" and the "how" of coaching
The course is self-paced, so completion time varies by individual. Most coaches work through it over several weeks to a few months, depending on how much time they can dedicate. There's no pressure to rush; you can work at the speed that fits your life.
The training is completely self-paced. You get lifetime access to the course materials and can work through them whenever it fits your schedule. This makes it perfect for busy people juggling other responsibilities.
Each section of the course includes assessments to demonstrate that you understand the content, the process, and the unique needs of clients who are overwhelmed by decluttering. These assessments ensure you're truly prepared to coach effectively.
The training course itself is a one-time investment. Dana describes it as "an investment" because it's designed to prepare you for coaching as a business, not just a hobby.
The certification can be paid in monthly payments of $39 per month or an annual price of $400 per year. This ongoing investment gives you access to continued support, monthly training sessions, and the ability to be listed on the coach directory. More information on pricing is available at declutteringcoaches.com/become-a-coach/
Certified coaches receive monthly training sessions with Dana, access to a community of other coaches using these methods, and a library of past training recordings (over two and a half years' worth!). You're never alone in building your business.
Yes! Certified coaches get teaching curriculum for both single sessions and six-week classes, marketing materials, and ongoing educational resources. You also have lifetime access to the original course content.
Yes! You can purchase and complete the course for your own learning and use the methods however you'd like, including starting your own decluttering business without certification. Certification is only required if you want to be listed on DeclutteringCoaches.com, use the "certified Speed of Life Decluttering Coach" designation and have access to the other benefits like the certified coach community and the training materials.
After completing all sections, you'll receive a link to apply for certification. We will review all your assessments to ensure you fully understand the methods and client needs. Once approved, you'll be added to the coach directory and gain access to all previous and ongoing support and resources.
Certification Requirements & Benefits
You must successfully complete the entire training course including assessments. After that, you pay the certification fee (monthly or annual) and your assessments are evaluated to be sure you are demonstrating full understanding of the methods and client needs. Once the evaluation is complete, you will be listed as an official certified coach.
Being certified means you've completed Dana's training, passed all assessments, and are committed to using the five-step No Mess Decluttering Process when clients ask for it. You get listed on the official coach directory, can use the certification in your marketing, and receive ongoing training and support.
Yes! Once certified, and as long as your certification is current, you'll be added to the clickable map directory where people searching for coaches can find you. This is a significant benefit—you're getting referrals from Dana's platform, which has millions of followers.
No. Certified coaches agree to use Dana's five-step process when clients request it, but you're not required to use only her methods. Many coaches integrate other organizing systems or specializations (like ADHD strategies) alongside Dana's core process.
Absolutely! Many certified coaches have additional training in ADHD coaching, chronic disorganization, or other specializations. Dana's methods work beautifully alongside other approaches.
Yes, certification is maintained through the ongoing monthly or annual fees. This isn't just a renewal fee; it provides continuous access to training, the coach community, and your listing on the directory.
Taking the course gives you the knowledge, and you can use it however you want. Certification adds the official credential, your personalized listing on DeclutteringCoaches.com, ongoing monthly training, access to the coach community, teaching curriculum, and the ability to market yourself as a certified Speed of Life coach.
Starting your Coaching Business
Requirements vary by location. In most places in the U.S., you don't need a professional license to coach (unlike licensed therapists), but you likely need a general business license to operate. Check with your city/county clerk's office or Small Business Administration for local requirements.
You can start as a sole proprietor (the simplest and cheapest option) and form an LLC later as your business grows. An LLC protects your personal assets if you're sued, but adds more paperwork and cost. Many coaches start as sole proprietors and transition to an LLC once they have a steady income.
While not legally required, liability insurance is highly recommended. It protects you financially if a client claims you gave bad advice or if you're injured in their home. Many coaches carry professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance. Costs are typically reasonable, often under $500 annually.
Startup costs are relatively low! You'll need the training course fee, certification fees if you choose that option, business registration, liability insurance, basic marketing materials (business cards, website), and technology for virtual sessions. If you work from home and focus on virtual coaching first, you can get started with just the basics and grow from there.
For virtual coaching: a reliable computer/laptop, webcam, good internet connection, video conferencing software (Zoom or others), and a phone. For in-person coaching: transportation, basic organizing supplies (trash bags, labels, bins), and business cards. Those items will get you on your way. Clients provide the space and items, you provide the expertise!
Research other organizers and coaches in your area to understand local rates. Rates can vary widely per hour, depending on location and experience. Consider your expertise, local market, whether you're in-person or virtual, and what value you provide. You can always adjust as you gain experience.
Yes! Many certified coaches build thriving full-time businesses. Success depends on marketing efforts, client retention, pricing strategy, and the number of hours you're willing to work. Some coaches expand income through group classes, workshops, online courses, or team hiring.
Working With Clients
Start with your circle: friends, family, neighbors, and social media connections. Offer to help organize spaces (even at a discount) in exchange for testimonials and before/after photos. Network with realtors, therapists, and senior service providers. Join local Facebook groups and community organizations. Create a Google Business Profile. The key is letting people know you exist.
This is completely normal! Building a client base takes time. Use the slow period to perfect your skills by organizing your own spaces, volunteering to help friends, creating content on social media showing your work, and actively networking. Every successful coach started with zero clients.
Offering a few discounted or even free sessions for family/friends in exchange for detailed testimonials and photos is smart marketing. Just be clear about what you're doing and don't undervalue your services long-term. Once you have a portfolio, charge appropriately.
Yes! Most certified Speed of Life coaches offer both options. Virtual coaching expands your potential client base worldwide, while in-person coaching works well for local clients. Many coaches find virtual sessions surprisingly effective.
You need: video conferencing software (Zoom is popular), a device with a good camera (laptop, tablet, or phone), reliable internet, good lighting, and clear audio. Clients use their phone or tablet to show you spaces while you guide them through the process. It's simpler than you might think.
Most coaches offer 1-4-hour sessions, with 1-2 hours being most common for virtual sessions. Longer than 4 hours can lead to decision fatigue. One-hour sessions work well for busy clients and can be scheduled regularly. Let clients choose what works for their schedule and budget.
This is where your training shines! The course teaches you to recognize emotional obstacles, ask helpful questions, validate feelings without enabling clutter-keeping, and guide clients through guilt and grief. You learn to work at the client's pace while still making progress.
Your job is to guide, not decide. Explain that making decisions for them would rob them of valuable learning, and they'd likely re-clutter once you're gone. Instead, you teach them the two decluttering questions and the five-step process to make confident decisions on their own. This approach creates lasting change.
The training prepares you for this! You learn to start where clients are ready to start (often with easy trash removal), celebrate small wins, and recognize when someone isn't actually ready for change. Sometimes resistance means deeper issues that might need professional therapy, and you'll learn to recognize these situations.
Both work! Single sessions are great for people testing the waters. Multi-session packages provide better value for clients and guaranteed income for you. Many coaches offer both options: single sessions for trial clients and 3-6 session packages for committed clients.
Growing Your Business
Focus on building relationships and visibility. Network locally, create social media content showing your work, get testimonials and reviews, speak at community events, partner with complementary businesses (realtors, therapists, senior services), maintain an active Google Business Profile, and join local business groups. Word-of-mouth from satisfied clients becomes your best marketing.
Yes! Even a simple one-page website establishes credibility and provides a place for people to learn about your services. Include your story, services offered, pricing, contact information, testimonials, and before/after photos. Many website builders like Squarespace or Canva make this easy and affordable.
Social media helps, especially when starting out, but it isn't mandatory. If you use it, share before/after photos (with permission), decluttering tips, client success stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your process. Be consistent, but don't let social media consume all your time; real-world networking matters just as much.
Your certification in Dana's methods immediately sets you apart! Emphasize that you specialize in helping overwhelmed people who've been too embarrassed to hire traditional organizers. Highlight your personal decluttering journey if you've struggled with clutter. Consider specializing in a niche (e.g., ADHD, seniors, downsizing).
Absolutely! Group classes are a great way to reach more people and generate additional income. Many coaches offer 6-week workshops, one-time intensives, or ongoing support groups.
Yes! Certified coaches receive teaching curriculum for both single sessions and a six-week class program. This is a huge benefit since you don't have to create everything from scratch.
Identify professionals whose clients need your services: realtors (for home staging/moving), therapists (clients dealing with anxiety/depression), senior service providers (downsizing), estate sale companies, and interior designers. Reach out to introduce yourself, offer to provide value to their clients, and build genuine relationships. Attend local business networking events.
Do excellent work and ask for referrals! Send follow-up emails to check on client progress, offer referral incentives (discounts on future sessions), stay in touch through a newsletter, and make it easy for happy clients to leave reviews. Many clients return for seasonal decluttering or new projects.
Practical Considerations
Certified coaches are located worldwide! Current coaches work in various U.S. states and countries including Belgium, England, and more. Virtual coaching means you can work with clients anywhere with internet access.
Yes! Virtual coaching means your potential client base isn't limited to your town. You can serve clients across your state, country, or internationally. This is one of the biggest advantages of offering online coaching.
That's actually a good sign; it means there's demand! The market is large enough for multiple coaches, especially since everyone has different personalities and specializations. Some clients might prefer your approach, your availability, or your particular expertise. Plus, you can potentially collaborate rather than compete.
No additional certifications are required, but they can enhance your skills and marketability. Many coaches pursue specialized training in ADHD coaching, chronic disorganization (ICD), senior move management, or other areas that interest them. These complement the Decluttering Coach methods quite well.
The flexibility of coaching is perfect for this! You set your own schedule, choose how many clients to see, and can work during school hours, evenings, or weekends. Many successful coaches are parents who built their businesses around family needs. Virtual coaching adds even more flexibility.
Common challenges include: getting initial clients, pricing yourself appropriately, handling difficult clients, maintaining boundaries, managing the business side (taxes, scheduling, marketing), and avoiding burnout. The coach community and monthly trainings help you navigate these challenges.
That's what the ongoing support is for! Certified coaches have access to monthly training sessions, a community of other coaches, and Dana's guidance on both coaching skills and business development. You're never alone in figuring things out.