The right acting coach can explain what they see, why it matters, and what you can do next. You should leave with more clarity about your own process, not a growing belief that good work only happens when that coach is in the room.
A coach may tell you that the scene is unclear, the preparation is thin, or the adjustment did not land. That is feedback about the work. They should never tell you that you have no value, make you question your worth, demean you in front of the room, or use hazing as a teaching method. Personal attacks are not industry preparation. They are personal attacks.
Notice whether the coach gives you something you can test. “Your objective disappeared when the other actor challenged you” gives you a next pass. “Casting will never like you” does not. Our approach is: “Don’t worry about whether casting likes you. Do your job. Do it well. They’ll like you.” Choose a coach who returns your attention to the work and your agency to you.