Unlocking Minds: Exploring the Dynamic Divide Between Coaching and Coaching Psychology
By Erin Buttermore and Simone Ey
In the ever-evolving landscape of human resources, finding effective methods to drive employee development and organisational success is paramount. Enter coaching and coaching psychology, two powerful tools that can revolutionise your approach.
Lately, you may have been hearing a great deal about both coaching and coaching psychology, and wondering what the difference is. Both are valuable approaches to helping you and others in your organisation achieve success, but there are distinct differences between the two. Broadly, while coaching empowers individuals to achieve performance goals, coaching psychology offers a deeper understanding of the human psyche, unlocking untapped potential and fostering holistic well-being. In this article, we unpack these differences and delve into how to choose a coach or coaching psychology practitioner.
Coaching
Coaching is a collaborative and goal-oriented process aimed at helping individuals or groups achieve personal or professional development. It involves a supportive relationship between a coach and a client, where the coach guides and facilitates the client's self-discovery, growth, and attainment of desired outcomes.
Coaching typically focuses on the present and future, emphasising action and progress. It helps clients identify their goals, strengths, and areas for improvement, and then assists them in creating strategies and action plans to reach those goals. Coaches employ various techniques, tools, and questioning methods to stimulate critical thinking, promote self-awareness, and encourage accountability.
There is no regulated qualification to practise as a coach in Australia. Look for coaches who have completed reputable training programs. These programs should provide comprehensive education and practical experience. Additionally, certifications from recognised coaching organisations such as the International Coach Federation (ICF) or the Association for Coaching (AC) can indicate a coach's commitment to professional standards and ethics.
Coaching can be applied to various areas of life, including career development, leadership skills, personal growth, relationships, health and wellness, and more. It is a client-centred approach that respects the individual's autonomy, values, and unique perspectives, while providing support and guidance along the journey of personal transformation.
While coaches may draw upon psychological principles, their primary focus is on the practical aspects of goal attainment and behavioural change.
Coaching psychology
Coaching psychology is a field that combines principles and techniques from psychology with coaching methodologies. It focuses on the psychological aspects of coaching and aims to enhance the effectiveness and depth of the coaching process by integrating psychological theories, research, and interventions.
Coaching psychology recognises that individuals have complex internal dynamics and psychological factors that influence their thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and goals. It emphasises the importance of understanding and addressing these psychological factors to promote personal growth and performance improvement.
In Australia, the term ‘psychologist’ is legally protected, and the profession of ‘coaching psychologist’ is not recognised. Graduates of coaching psychology programs usually refer to themselves as ‘coaching psychology practitioners’, though you may often hear the terms ‘executive coach’, ‘organisational coach’, or ‘leadership coach’ used instead. A coaching psychology practitioner may have an advanced degree such as a Master's or Doctorate in coaching psychology or a coaching-related discipline, for example counselling, positive psychology, or organisational development.
Coaching psychology practitioners are trained professionals who possess expertise in both coaching and psychology. They work with clients to explore and understand their cognitive processes, beliefs, values, motivations, and emotional patterns that may impact their ability to achieve desired outcomes. By integrating psychological theories and interventions, coaching psychology practitioners can help clients gain insight into their inner workings, overcome obstacles, develop self-awareness, build resilience, and enhance their overall well-being and performance.
Coaching psychology can be applied to various domains, including executive coaching, career coaching, sports coaching, life coaching, and more. It complements traditional coaching approaches by adding a deeper psychological dimension to the coaching process, fostering personal development and transformation on both conscious and subconscious levels.
Choosing a coach
When looking for a coach or coaching psychology practitioner, it's important to consider their qualifications and credentials. While there is no standardised set of requirements, here are some factors you can consider:
· Experience: Evaluate the practitioner's experience in coaching or coaching psychology. Consider the number of years they have been practising, the types of clients they have worked with, and the areas they specialise in. Experience working with clients in a similar context or industry as yours can be beneficial.
· Supervision: Ask if the practitioner participates in regular supervision with a qualified coaching supervisor. This helps ensure coaching quality and adherence to ethical standards.
· Continuing education and professional development: Inquire about the practitioner's commitment to ongoing learning and development. Look for evidence of their participation in workshops, conferences, or further training to stay updated with the latest coaching techniques and research.
· Professional memberships: Membership in professional coaching organisations, such as the ICF, AC, or other regional coaching associations, can demonstrate a commitment to professional standards and continuous learning. It also indicates that the coach or practitioner is part of a broader coaching community.
· Ethical guidelines: Check if the coach or practitioner follows a code of ethics that outlines professional conduct, confidentiality, and client well-being. Standards Australia has developed guidelines for organisational coaching practice with input from industry stakeholders. Additionally, professional coaching organisations often have their own code of ethics that members adhere to.
· Client testimonials or references: Ask for testimonials or references from previous clients. Feedback from others who have worked with the coach or practitioner can provide insights into their effectiveness and the quality of their services.
Finding the right coach or coaching psychology practitioner is a personal decision. It's essential to have a good fit in terms of communication style, rapport, and shared values. Take the time to have initial consultations or interviews with potential practitioners to assess if they align with your needs and goals.