Exploring different coaching models can be really helpful at whatever stage you are at in your coaching business. Integrating different models and blending coaching styles and methods can be very effective in sessions with your clients.
In my last blog post, “What Coaching is and isn't” we explored what coaching is – a forward-focused, client-focused, non-directional intervention that involves working towards a goal with a new way of thinking. This time, we are going to delve deeper beneath the umbrella term “coaching” into the different coaching models available, and how these modalities are often blended for better results.
GROW Model
Known as the traditional normative model, this approach was made famous by John Whitmore over 25 years ago now. It follows four core elements: Goal, Reality, Options and Will to identify what you want, where you are, possible actions and intended actions. It is a great starting point for beginner coaches since it’s easy to learn and adapt to clients, minimising risk of psychological harm for those with no background in psychology.
Relational Coaching
This is the complete opposite of the GROW model. Relational coaching is a freeing approach where you are led solely by the client and their journey of expression. It is an immersive experience where you are tuned into the energy of the client and any small shifts in their movement, tonality and pitch. However, because of the need to think and act on your feet, this requires a greater degree of confidence and expertise to pursue.
Transactional Analysis
Based on a trauma-informed approach, transactional analysis looks at early moments you’ve had with yourself, others and the world and uses this as a basis for coaching conversation and understanding others. It often blends both psychotherapy and coaching for heightened effect.
Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)
Uses hypnotic and intentional language to identify a client’s thinking process, communication and behaviour, helping them unconsciously move away from situations that have happened in the past. This is sometimes used as an additional tool to support a coaching session.
The power in all of these interventions is looking into our client’s thoughts and helping them achieve mental clarity, but how do you know which is right for you?
The approach you choose is entirely dependent on your expertise as a coach. For me, I’m a trained spiral practitioner so I also work as an energy coach – by blending these approaches, I’ve created my own powerful intervention, and you can do the same.
There will always be positive and negatives to each of these approaches but choose what works for you, based on your skillset, your experience and simply what you enjoy.
Get curious. Experiment. There is no right or wrong.
Blended approaches often help our clients get the best results and that is the basis of my coaching training at Kudzi Coach Academy – to educate you on the coaching models and to open your eyes to the curiosity of it all, so you can start to decide who you really want to be as a coach and what blended approach works for you.