Online coaching is immensely valuable and has a huge role to play in improving overall health and supporting personal growth.
Online support is very different from face-to-face. The differences need to be understood by both the coach and client for maximum benefit to be obtained from the online experience.
In it's most common form, using platforms such as Skype or Zoom, online work does resemble face-to-face coaching, however it is so different to the session experience that it can be difficult to relate the effectiveness it may have.
Working online is usually most effective:
where the goal is well defined and the client is looking for new ways to approach a specific issue in their life. This can be as effective as, or at least very similar to face-to-face coaching.
where suitable face-to-face coaching is unavailable, possibly due to location or mobility. The online process aims to support the client as much as is appropriate and/or to provide a stand-in service until face-to-face coaching can be started. It is important the client understands that online coaching is not equivalent to face-to-face work, and is being used because appropriate face-to-face coaching is currently inaccessible.
Online support is useful for the following clients.
Clients living in a rural area where support is limited or non-existent.
People living in an area where there are no English speaking coaches.
Where travelling to see a coach is not possible.
Where local support is offered by organisations or practitioners with whom you may have a prior connection, which may cause ethical, confidentiality and boundary issues.
Where there is a sensitive issue that you do not wish to discuss with anyone in your area, community or family.
People who have participated in body-centred coaching from available local sources and wish to build on the foundation it has given.
Online work requires a reasonable internet connection. If the connection quality decreases, it’s more difficult to do effective work. There comes a point when switching to a phone is required, or even rescheduling as the final option. It's vital to have a quiet space where you can talk confidentially and not be interrupted. Having a blanket, cushions and water to hand is also advised.
If you'd like to talk about whether online coaching would be suitable for you please click the button below.