What is coaching?

At a recent social event, someone mentioned that a close friend seemed depressed and might benefit from my help. Understanding the situation, I suggested that his friend might be better served by seeing a psychologist. I also offered to facilitate the referral to ensure they received the appropriate support. This sparked a conversation about what coaching is and whether I'm a psychologist or therapist, or was I like Ben Crowe, mindset coach to world tennis champion Ash Barty? More specifically, what does someone with a master’s degree in coaching psychology do?

Things can get confusing quickly. A quick internet search will reveal coaches for all sorts of issues, further complicated by social media accounts with slick videos promising quick fixes for everything from relationship problems to PTSD. Recently, I stumbled upon a video from a 'Developmental Coach' on Instagram, confidently diagnosing generic conditions as symptoms of childhood trauma due to overbearing parents and offering his service to help cure them. Without knowing more about his background, I couldn't help but wonder about his qualifications. This highlights an important issue: before engaging someone's services, it's crucial to understand their training and expertise. You wouldn’t want an unqualified sparky wiring your home, would you?

To start with, what is a coach? Simply put, a coach helps clients achieve their goals through various psychological techniques and strategies. This involves enhancing performance, fostering personal growth, and facilitating goal attainment. Unlike therapists, coaches do not focus on correcting psychological deficits or treating mental health issues. Instead, they empower clients to maximise their potential and achieve desired outcomes by leveraging strengths and addressing obstacles in a non-clinical context.

Identifying Red Flags When Hiring a Coach: What to Watch For

In today's world, many people are seeking coaches for personal and professional guidance. However, as the industry grows and remains largely unregulated, it's crucial to recognise potential red flags to avoid unqualified or harmful coaches.

Red Flags to Watch For:

1. Unqualified Claims: Coaches relying solely on personal experience without formal training.

2. Vague Promises: Offering complete transformation without understanding individual circumstances.

3. Lack of Professionalism: No clear contracts (verbal or written), ethical guidelines, or professional supervision.

The Dangers of Hiring Untrained Coaches: What You Need to Know

When engaging a new coach, it's crucial to be aware of the risks associated with untrained coaches. One significant red flag is their failure to recognise and address mental health issues, which can lead to inadequate support and potential harm. Without proper training, a coach may overlook critical signs of distress or dysfunction, ultimately exacerbating the client's challenges rather than alleviating them. They may also attempt to deal with mental health issues rather then referring them to appropriate services. Ensuring your coach is well-trained and knowledgeable about mental health can help mitigate these risks and provide a safer, more supportive coaching experience.

How to Choose the Right Coach: Steps to Make the Best Decision

Finding the right coach is crucial for a successful coaching engagement. It involves a careful evaluation of potential coaches to ensure their approach aligns with your needs and goals. Here are some key steps to consider:

1. Ask for a Discovery Session:

   • Always request a free discovery or chemistry session. This meeting helps you assess the coach's approach and determine if it aligns with your needs without any commitment.

2. No Pressure:

   • You should never feel pressured to engage a coach. A reputable coach will respect your decision-making process and give you the space to make an informed choice.

3. Beware of One-Size-Fits-All Promises:

   • We are all unique individuals, and coaching should be personalised. Be cautious of coaches who promise universal solutions or instant results without considering your specific circumstances.

By being mindful of these red flags and taking steps to choose a qualified coach, you can ensure a more effective and supportive coaching experience. For mental health issues, consider consulting a psychologist for better-suited help.

Further reading: APS News, also a podcast by ABC

Feel free to connect if you have any questions or need further guidance on finding the right coach for you.