Blog Posts

By Robin Westerik

When I first started working with Coach Vern at the Madison Coaching Academy, I didn’t really understand coaching. So, when I got the opportunity to complete certifications and learn more about coaching, I jumped on it! This is what I have learned so far about what coaching is and is not.

First, coaching is not therapy or counseling. Both are incredibly valuable fields but coaching rather than addressing past trauma focuses on the future and achieving goals. Also, coaching is not consulting, mentoring, advising, and teaching. Though there is some overlap between all of these modalities, coaching is unique in the process and the end point.

According the International Coaching Federation (ICF), coaching is a collaborative, goal-oriented process that helps individuals unlock their potential, enhance performance, and achieve meaningful personal or professional growth. That’s a great definition, but what does a coaching session or engagement actually look like for coaches and clients?

Coaches offer clients a structured and supportive partnership that encourages clients on a journey of self-discovery, reflection, and action to help clients reach their potential. Coaches meet with clients regularly and work with them to develop strategies to overcome obstacles and achieve success, focusing on solutions. The coach’s role is to ask powerful questions, provide new perspectives, and offer support and accountability. Clients take ownership of their journey to make meaningful and lasting changes in their personal and professional lives. This short video (written summary here) helped me visualize what coaching looks like in practice.

As I continue my coaching certification, I'm excited to share my journey with you. If you're considering seeking out a coach or are simply curious about what coaching is all about, follow my upcoming coaching blog series right here so we can learn and grow together!

Dr. Robin Westerik is the President of Madison Education group. She likes to learn new things and play outside.