Evidence-based approaches to coach training and education are vital if the coaching industry is to continue to mature. Drawing on past research on mandatory personal therapy for therapists-in-training this paper reports a qualitative and quantitative within-subject exploration of the impact of compulsory participation in a personal life coaching program for coaches-in-training. Twenty-nine coaches-in-training set personal goals and completed a 10 to 12 week five-session solution-focused cognitive-behavioural personal coaching program. Three sessions were face-to-face two by telephone. Following each coaching session the coach and the coachee independently completed a structured reflection exercise. Participation in the program was associated with reduced anxiety increased goal attainment enhanced cognitive hardiness and higher levels of personal insight. Participants also had higher end-of-semester marks as compared to a cohort that did not participate in the intensive personal coaching program. There was no change in participants’ levels of psychological well-being.
Citation:
Coaching: An International Journal of Theory, Research and Practice Vol. 1, No. 1, March 2008, 54-70