Finding the right acting coach can feel like unlocking a door that finally lets your talent breathe. But sometimes, the connection you hoped for doesn’t happen, and that’s okay. Not every technique works for every actor, and if you’re starting to feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain in class, it might be time to pause and ask yourself some honest questions about what’s working and what isn’t. Recognizing a misfit between teaching methods and learning style isn’t a failure. It’s part of growing in a creative field.

Everyone learns differently. Some actors thrive on emotional recall, while others respond better to physical movement or repetition. If your coach sticks to one specific method that just isn’t landing with you, it can slow down your momentum and even discourage your progress. Knowing when to speak up and explore other approaches can make a big difference in how far and how fast you grow professionally.

How To Tell When a Coach’s Methods Aren’t Working

The signs can be subtle or direct, but most actors can feel when something’s off. Instead of getting better, you might feel like you’re just going through the motions in class. Or maybe you leave sessions more confused than inspired. These are important signals to pay attention to so you don’t waste time looping through the same struggles without improvement.

Some common signs the coaching style isn’t working for you may include:

– Constant confusion following instructions, even after repeated explanations

– Feeling emotionally drained or overly anxious after class instead of challenged or excited

– No noticeable improvement in auditions or performances, despite trying hard

– Feedback that feels vague, harsh, or just doesn’t give you clear next steps

– Difficulty applying what you’re learning to real-world situations like scene work or cold reads

– Dreading class instead of looking forward to it

Progress in acting doesn’t always move in straight lines, but you should feel more confident and connected to your craft with each passing class. If that steady growth isn’t there, it’s okay to question whether the method fits your needs.

Let’s say you’re in a technique-heavy class that focuses on breaking down every scene with formulaic blocking and analysis. That could work great for some actors. But if you’re more instinct-driven and find that style draining or overcomplicating your process, then it may not support your growth.

Knowing yourself as an actor is key. Being honest about what motivates you, how you learn best, and what kind of support you need can help you spot when a mismatch is holding you back. If you’re noticing any of these red flags, it might be time to open up the conversation.

How To Talk To Your Coach Without Causing Conflict

Once you realize something isn’t working, the next move is communication. This doesn’t have to be awkward. It’s about clarity, not confrontation. Your goal isn’t to tell your coach their method is wrong. It’s to share your experience and ask for ways to make the learning process more helpful.

Here are a few tips to keep that conversation respectful and productive:

1. Choose the right time. Don’t raise deep concerns in the middle of group class. Set aside a quiet moment after class or ask your coach for a quick one-on-one.

2. Focus on how you’re feeling. Use “I” statements instead of “you.” For example, say, “I’m having trouble connecting with the method we’ve been using,” instead of “You’re not explaining this well.”

3. Ask for suggestions. Frame it in a way that asks for help, not criticism. Something like, “Do you have other exercises that might help me connect more physically in the scene?” opens up the conversation.

4. Be specific. Instead of saying, “This doesn’t work,” try explaining what’s getting in your way. Is it the pace? The feedback style? The focus on one technique over others?

5. Keep the tone open. Treat it like a creative conversation, not a complaint. You’re both working toward the same goal, helping you grow as an actor.

Good coaches know that growth looks different for everyone. If your coach is open and willing to adapt a little, that’s great. On the flip side, if there’s no room for dialogue or they dismiss your concerns, it could be a sign that their teaching style isn’t the right fit for how you learn.

Having this talk isn’t about avoiding hard work. It’s about making sure the work you’re doing is actually helping you move forward. Being honest with your coach might lead to better strategies, deeper understanding, or even uncover parts of your craft you didn’t realize needed attention. All of that beats staying silent and stuck.

Exploring Alternative Coaching Approaches

When you hit a wall with one method, it’s a good time to start exposing yourself to different ones. There isn’t just one way to train as an actor. Acting is personal and deeply connected to how you respond to the material, so finding a style that lights you up is worth the effort. Some actors lean toward Meisner’s repetition work, while others are drawn to physical theater or improvisation. Understanding what stimulates you creatively can guide you toward a better fit.

Start by doing some research. Look into other techniques and coaching philosophies. Video clips, podcasts, and books by respected acting coaches can open your mind to fresh tools you haven’t yet explored. If a concept clicks with you, like using sensory memory instead of emotional memory, follow that path. There may be classes or workshops near Los Angeles that explore that approach more deeply.

A short-term workshop or online class can also ease you into new territory without a major commitment. These kinds of sessions help you experiment with other methods and provide backup coaching while you evaluate your options.

You can also ask for recommendations from other actors you trust. Hearing how others solved similar challenges can be helpful and give you ideas on next steps. Try out approaches even if they’re outside your usual comfort zone. The goal isn’t to mimic others. It’s to find what sharpens your skills in a way that feels right to you.

Here are some ideas to help explore other coaching options:

– Read books introducing acting methods like Viewpoints or Practical Aesthetics

– Join a short online workshop focused on a style that’s new to you

– Talk to other working actors about their coaching history

– Watch interviews where experienced actors break down their training and learning model

– Keep a journal after each new class to log what methods feel helpful or frustrating

Trying new coaching styles doesn’t mean abandoning your technique. It shows you’re working to shape it into something that works better for who you are now.

Deciding Whether to Move On From Your Coach

After some trial and reflection, you might reach the point where stepping away from your current coach feels like the right call. That decision can be hard, especially if you’ve built a relationship or already invested lots of time. Still, your career is worth making those calls.

Before walking away, reflect on what you’ve tried. Did you clearly express your concerns? Did your coach respond with changes? Did anything shift, or are you still feeling stuck?

Making a pros and cons list may help. Sometimes just seeing things spelled out can make your choice clearer. You might discover that you’re only staying with your coach because it’s comfortable, not because it’s pushing you forward.

If you choose to switch, be respectful and transparent. You don’t need to give a long explanation. A simple thank-you lets your coach know you appreciate their time. Most good coaches will support your decision if it’s based on sincere self-growth.

Think about what you’ve learned during this period. Maybe you discovered what feedback methods don’t work for you. Or maybe you realized you need a more hands-on teaching style. Whatever the case, that knowledge helps you choose mentors more carefully moving forward.

Keep Moving Forward With Confidence

Choosing to switch acting coaches or test new techniques isn’t a step backward. It’s a sign that you’re paying attention to your art and choosing to grow on your own terms. Acting isn’t a straight path. Some weeks will bring breakthroughs. Others will feel like reruns of the same problems. That’s all part of the process.

Getting better as an actor takes curiosity, patience, and trust in yourself. No single acting coach will carry you through every stage. New seasons in your growth might need new mentors. Pay attention to what supports your momentum and don’t hesitate to explore a better fit when something isn’t working.

Los Angeles has tons of resources waiting for you to try out—voice classes, scene study, method workshops, movement sessions. Take the time to find the ones that speak to you. Don’t be discouraged by a few missteps along the way. Trial and error are baked into the learning process.

Your gut knows more than people give it credit for. Trust it, especially when something feels off. When you land on the right technique or the right guide, your confidence and curiosity will start to come through in every role you take on. Let that feeling lead the way.

Ready to grow your voice and sharpen your delivery? At Michelle Danner Acting Studio, we offer guidance that supports your growth at every stage. Build presence, speak with purpose, and connect more naturally by working with an acting coach in Los Angeles who understands the demands of performance and communication alike.