What is Coaching?

According to the International Coach Federation, coaching is "partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential."

How It Works

In each meeting, the client chooses the focus of conversation, while the coach listens, contributes observations and asks powerful questions. This interaction creates clarity and moves the client into action. Coaching accelerates the client’s progress by providing greater focus and awareness of choice. Coaching concentrates on where clients are now and what they are willing to do to get where they want to be. ICF-credentialed coaches recognize that results are a matter of the client’s intentions, choices and actions, supported by the coach’s efforts and the application of the coaching process. (Taken from the International Coach Federation.)

The Difference Between Coaching, Therapy and Consulting

There are fundamental differences between coaching, therapy, and consulting or mentoring. Each is valid and each has value when used appropriately.

A consultant or mentor is used when an expert in a specific field is needed to advise in a particular situation. A therapist is used when deep personal issues need to be resolved and individuals need to gain an understanding of "why," or when there is a need to process emotions, issues and feelings. Therapy often focuses on the past to create a better present; the goal of therapy is to achieve "normal" functioning.

A person engages a coach when life is functioning well but just not at the desired level. The focus is on developing a better alignment between who you are and how you want to be. Coaching often shifts your paradigms, addresses challenging questions and encourages sustainable leadership.

Any professional coach you decide to work with should be accredited by a reputable coaching association. For more information on ICF, please visit http://coachfederation.org/research-education/icf-credentials/. Diana is an ICF accredited coach.