Coaching is fundamentally a process designed to enhance decision-making and implementation. It centers on the present and immediate future, fostering a self-driven approach that empowers the person being coached.

However, confusion often surrounds the distinctions between a psychiatrist, a coach, and a consultant. Let’s break these down to offer some clarity.

Therapy vs. Coaching vs. Consulting

Therapy: In therapy, the therapist largely guides the conversation, often focusing on your past to help you heal emotional wounds or deal with unresolved issues. The therapeutic process is about recovery and understanding the impact of past experiences.

Coaching: Coaching, by contrast, is entirely client-driven. The client sets the agenda, determines the goals for each session, and defines what success looks like. Rather than dwelling on the past, coaching focuses on the present and the steps the client can take to improve their current situation and future.

Consulting: A consultant takes yet another approach. They provide specific, actionable solutions to the client’s challenges. After gathering initial information, a consultant will typically offer a structured plan to address both short-term and long-term needs, relying on their expertise to guide the way forward.

The Advantages of Coaching

Empowerment: Coaching empowers the client by placing full belief in their ability to resolve their challenges and achieve the goals they set. A coach serves as a facilitator, asking powerful questions and providing reflections that allow their clients to see new perspectives and insights.

Self-Driven: The client holds all the power in the coaching relationship. They are the ones who decide the topics of discussion, the depth to which they want to explore them, and the actions they want to take. They also set the tone for how their coach supports them.

Effectiveness: Coaching helps clients uncover their strengths and supports them in using these strengths effectively. A coach helps their clients hold themselves accountable, challenges their assumptions, and provides a safe space for exploration. According to research by the International Coach Federation (ICF), 70% of individuals who receive coaching report improved work performance, relationships, and effective communication skills (International Coaching Federation, 2022).

“But Coaching Doesn’t Work!”

It’s true that not all coaching relationships lead to desired outcomes. However, the effectiveness of coaching depends on several key factors:

• Commitment to change: The client must be genuinely committed to making changes in their life.

• Belief in the process: If clients are not convinced that coaching can help, it won’t.

• Trust: Trust in the coach is essential. Without it, the partnership won’t be as effective.

• Honesty: Clients must be open and honest about their goals and what they need from the process.

• Time investment: Coaching requires the clients to invest time in themselves, both in and outside of sessions.

• Follow-through: Achieving their goals depends on the clients’ commitment to follow through, with the coach holding them accountable.

How Does Coaching Work?

Coaching sessions typically range from 30 to 90 minutes. The first session is often longer (around two hours) to establish goals and set the direction for future work. Sessions can be conducted in person, or virtually through platforms like Skype, Zoom, or WeChat, as well as over the phone.

For sustained progress, it is generally recommended to commit to at least 10 weekly sessions. Curious to see if coaching is right for you? Book a needs assessment call today.

Research-Backed Insights on Coaching

Research shows that coaching can yield significant benefits for both individuals and organizations. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that executive coaching led to a 60% increase in self-reported leadership effectiveness among participants (Luthans & Youssef-Morgan, 2022). Additionally, a meta-analysis conducted by Theeboom, Beersma, and van Vianen (2022) revealed that coaching enhances self-efficacy and goal achievement across various professional settings.

International Coaching Federation. (2022). 2022 ICF Global Coaching Study: Executive Summary. Retrieved from ICF Website.

International Coaching Federation- Professional Coaching Association

coachingfederation.org

Luthans, F., & Youssef-Morgan, C. M. (2022). Psychological Capital: An Evidence-Based Approach to Cultivating Positive Psychology in Organizations. Journal of Applied Psychology, 107(3), 473-484. doi:10.1037/apl0000861.

Theeboom, T., Beersma, B., & van Vianen, A. E. M. (2022). Formal Coaching and Its Effects on Workplace Relationships and Self-Efficacy. International Journal of Evidence Based Coaching and Mentoring, 20(1), 54-68. doi:10.24384/000623.

Need Help?

Thinking about taking the plunge but unsure where to start? Need help setting or sustaining your language-learning goals? Consider working with a coach. If you’re curious about coaching, check out our article, “What is Coaching,” and book a free needs assessment call.