As I build my coaching practice, it’s important for me to develop an evidence-based approach to the work I do, rooted in the growing field of coaching psychology. “But what is it?” I hear you say!
Coaching psychology is a field of applied psychology that focuses on using psychological theories, research, and evidence-based practices to enhance personal and professional growth, well-being, and performance through coaching.
It sits at the intersection of psychology and coaching (like life coaching, executive coaching, leadership development, etc.), but what makes it distinct is that it draws heavily on established psychological science rather than just motivational techniques or advice-giving. When I talk to leaders they often have a misconception that coaching is about advice.
Key elements of Coaching Psychology
⭐ Evidence-based: It uses insights from positive psychology, cognitive-behavioural psychology, humanistic psychology, and organisational psychology.
⭐ Goal-focused: Coaching psychology helps you clarify values, set meaningful goals, and take steps toward them.
⭐ Client-centred: Instead of telling you what to do, it uses questioning, reflection, and structured frameworks to help you find your own solutions.
⭐ Broad applications: It’s used in workplaces (leadership, performance, resilience), education (student success, wellbeing), sports, health, and personal life contexts.
⭐ Different from therapy: Therapy often focuses on healing past trauma or mental illness, while coaching psychology focuses on unlocking potential, building strengths, and supporting thriving in the present and future.
A simple way to put it:
👉 Coaching psychology = psychology applied to help you flourish, not just fix problems.
Common psychological models I use in the coaching room are from Cognitive Behavioural Theory; for example, helping you see the limiting beliefs that prevent you from moving forward (if I delegate more work, my team won’t cope / I can’t tell my boss how I am feeling because they will think less of me).
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I’m Matt, a Transformative Coach for leaders in the charity sector who want to create impact without paying a personal cost.
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