From overwhelmed to capable
I help young people build the confidence, skills, and self-awareness to handle life with greater independence and resilience. I help parents shift from managing every challenge to supporting their child's growth with more clarity and confidence.
I worked with tweens, teens and young adults for over three decades as a music educator before shifting to the health and wellness space around 2015. It was a gradual shift that began with me noticing that kids weren’t as confident, curious, or joyful and leading to me earning certifications in health coaching, life coaching, social emotional learning, and meditation and mindfulness. I earned a graduate certificate in Family Life Education and Coaching at North Carolina State University to better serve my clients.
A few fun facts about me:
I learned to read music before I learned to read words!
I am a proud Michigan State University graduate. GO GREEN!
I love sports of all kinds – watching and playing.
I never met a dog I didn’t want to love on, especially golden retrievers.
I find pennies and see repeating numbers all the time – my energy game is strong!
Education, Credentials, and Experience
NC State University – Family Life Education and Coaching – Graduate Certificate
Certified Teen Wisdom Life Coach
Master Certified Health Coach (The Dr. Sears Wellness Institute)
Meditation and Mindfulness Teacher Training (School of Positive Transformation)
Mindful Practices 20-hour Social Emotional Learning Certification Course – November 2022
Positive Psychology Practitioner – in progress (School of Positive Transformation)
University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music – Artist Diploma
Wayne State University – Master of Music degree
Michigan State University – Bachelor of Music degree
30+ years teaching working with middle school, high school, and college music students
Member of Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity
Registered therapy dog handler (with Joey, the golden retriever) through Four Paws NC
Subscribe to Marianne's Newsletter
What my clients say
Marianne helped my daughter set high standards and goals for herself. Marianne creates a supportive environment where students feel comfortable and helps to instill the confidence for them to excel
Kudos to Marianne Breneman for her most positive and helpful impact on our daughter, from middle school through high school. We know that our daughter’s life has been immeasurably enriched by Marianne. We have complete trust in Marianne’s ability to help our daughter.
I asked Marianne to come and speak with my sorority chapter about mental health and wellness, and the girls were blown out of the water by her presentation. Marianne is emotionally sensitive and knowledgeable about real-life issues. I had members messaging me halfway through the presentation saying how impactful her words were to them! Many girls approached her after her talk and Marianne spent time getting to know them, giving valuable life advice and suggestions. She continues to provide us with valuable resources and I can’t wait to have her back again. Marianne is absolutely amazing.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if coaching is the right fit?
I offer a complimentary 30-minute inquiry call so we can talk about what’s going on, what you or your child would like to change, and whether coaching feels like a good fit. There’s no pressure to sign up. Coaching works best when the client is willing to participate, so fit matters to me too.
Do you offer different coaching packages?
Yes. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to coaching. I offer packages of different lengths based on age, goals, level of support needed, and where someone is starting. We’ll talk about the options during the inquiry process and determine what makes the most sense.
Is coaching the same as therapy?
No. Coaching is future-focused and action-oriented. We may talk about challenges, emotions, relationships, habits, or past experiences when they affect what’s happening now, but our work focuses primarily on developing skills, making decisions, setting goals, and moving forward. Coaching does not diagnose or treat mental health conditions and can work very well alongside therapy when appropriate.