Coaching: What is it?

That's the question!

Even before I started my coaching journey, I noticed that this term was being overused.

A personal trainer at the gym might be referred to as a coach.
A chef who teaches a young cook might be called a coach.
The manager of a football team might also be labelled as a coach.

Someone who mentors you in a field where you want to improve might fall under the category of a coach.

No matter the context, all these roles have my utmost respect because they share a common goal: the desire to support people.

And this is a significant starting point.

Let's delve into it.

Coaching is a client-centred activity, and one of the recognized bodies is the International Coaching Federation (ICF), which sets the standards and criteria for this profession in relation to clients.

Here is where we see how coaching, as a profession, distinguishes itself from the term that is sometimes overused in various fields. Coaching is a way to unlock a client's potential through powerful questions that encourage self-discovery and provide opportunities for growth and development.

During a coaching session, the client is at the centre and receives specific questions that begin with why they are there and conclude with an action plan for progress between sessions.

The reasons that lead a client to embark on a coaching journey may vary depending on the area where they require support. Importantly, the responsibility lies with the coachee (the client) from the very beginning.

I would describe this process as a conversation that differs significantly from real-life conversations. A chat with a friend or even a conversation with any guru leads to different insights, unrelated to what occurs within a coaching session. I don't intend to judge what's better or worse; there's no competition here. It's simply important to distinguish these roles.

That's why coaching is distinct from psychotherapy.

That's why coaching differs from mentoring.

That's also why coaching is separate from counselling.

Furthermore, because the responsibility lies with the client, a coaching journey is relatively short-term. Typically, within eight coaching sessions, a client acquires the tools needed to move forward in life.

Another important note here: coaching does not address specific mental health issues. Coaching is intended for individuals who begin with good mental health conditions. Therefore, this practice is goal-oriented, and individuals should be in a sound mental state to pursue their goals.

Dealing with specific traumas is the responsibility of other professionals who, in this regard, also have my utmost esteem and respect. Delicate subjects require specialists to address them.

With that clarification, I want to emphasize that coaching is, and always will be, compassionate.

Maintaining a distinction from certain mental health-related areas does not mean excluding empathy and humanity.

That's why a focus on emotions and fostering awareness is essential, two central aspects you'll encounter and explore when participating.

Feel free to take the plunge with a complimentary session with me. Send an email to domenico.minutella@gmail.com

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