Any capable coach knows that what clients say are the problems are rarely the actual best statement of the core problem. All coaches have methods of getting to the heart of the matter, some more thoughtful than others. I started with trying to understand the heart of the matter. My assessment methods are very, very good at getting to the heart of the matter quickly.
The assessment is the first part of a process that can go in a number of directions. Executives can sign up for the assessment first and decide upon coaching once we’ve talked about what the assessment shows. During this discussion we may decide that the person does not need coaching, or that I am not the right coach. From time to time, therapy is called for and I refer the person to an appropriate therapist. I do not do therapy, but I know what it needs to be, and I know who needs it. I have a strong referral network.
Sometimes I coach in conjunction with therapy and sometimes the prospect needs to resolve really deep issues before coaching can be beneficial. If an executive is looking for coaching, having the assessment first helps us to ascertain whether coaching is the answer. A good assessment and the right client may make coaching unnecessary.
No matter the person or coach, the best outcomes occur when coaching begins with a sophisticated understanding of the person. The coaching plan then builds on those insights. Assessment candidates can take the report from the assessment for their personal use and show it to the coach and/ or therapist they've decided to work with. I am available to consult to that coach or therapist if necessary, as part of the original assessment service.