FAQ ANSWER
What is counselling / coaching?
My answer to these questions have evolved over the years and so I offer a perspective that has derived from my own personal learning and professional life.
Counselling/Psychotherapy can be a methodology, theory, technique and/or intervention that can offer relief from difficult psychological, emotional and sometimes physical symptoms. There are different approaches that often have over-lapping, inter-linking ideas. It is a place in which trust and mutual respect is essential and where the counsellor is sufficiently trained and experienced in what they offer.
There are many different kinds of counsellors and many different ideas. Most important of all, no matter what the approach, is that a ‘therapeutic relationship’ is created, in other words there is a genuine intention and presence, which is the fundamental basis on which change and healing occurs. ‘Two people gather around the metaphorical table of one persons life and work collaboratively with the narrative of the persons situation, to explore and understand the perspectives, emotions and behaviours that have proved to be troublesome’. It is this ‘work’ that can lead to reconciliation and clear the path to realising our inherent wellbeing.
Business Coaching offers the opportunity to examine areas of strength and limitation. This can include competencies in strategic appraisal and planning ability, but also in the management of relational interactions and dynamics. The effectiveness of an organisation and those in positions of authority is dependant upon these two essential threads being woven together, and thus complimenting the efficiency with which shared goals and aspirations are attained.
As part of professional development, the gaining of skills and experience is important for remaining current and competent. The acquisition of these skills and experience is essential. However, the manner and degree to which this knowledge is assimilated and applied in the work place is limited, if there is dispositional dis-ease within the individual, group or team. These concealed internal dimensions are what contributes to the frustrations and interruptions that are common place when problem solving and collaborating to achieve a common goal.
Coaching offers an opportunity to enquire into how we relate to our job and those we work with. It offers teaching and development in the management of complex group dynamics by exploring contexts and perspectives for arriving at solutions that translate into action.
Coaching addresses the important issue of sustainability, efficiency, resilience and burnout. It explores how well-being can be introduced and supported by leaders and managers, without loosing focus, effectiveness or respect. It can provide ideas and opportunities for individuals to work economically whilst still giving their best.
Leadership within organisations, departments and teams can be an isolated role for those in a position of responsibility for performance, welfare and productivity. A key dimension of Leadership is the inner foundation on which the role and its decisions are made. When those in positions of authority are at the mercy of their own unacknowledged internal un-resolve, then stress and burnout are never far away. This then infiltrates and undermines the quality and style of their contribution which then leads to inefficiency, insecurity and doubt. Executive coaching can work with these limiting characteristics. It looks at motives, personality, strengths and limitations and offers the possibility for resolution of personal inner conflict. This then leads to receptivity, understanding and change which then positively informs important areas of vocational and domestic life.
Coaching can facilitate the introduction of these important themes in ways that are non threatening, whilst also respecting and maintaining organisation and team integrity. This is particularly important when Leadership teams come together for development and learning.