Diagnose and Treat vs. Recognise and Respond?

Posted on: 15 Apr 2025

What should a coach do when a client shows signs of psychological distress? While the coaching profession agrees that we do not diagnose or treat mental health conditions, we are increasingly being called upon to recognise and respond to possible signs—particularly when many clients come to coaching because of their reluctance to engage in therapy.

 

This means coaches often encounter emotionally complex situations, especially with clients who are more open to coaching than to clinical support. These moments require us to reflect deeply: Where is the line between helping and harming? Between ethical coaching and inappropriate clinical overreach?

 

 

This issue of Coaching Research in Practice explores recent research that provides a thoughtful and practical model for navigating that line. It sheds light on how experienced coaches move from recognising signs of distress in their clients to making ethically grounded decisions about how to respond—without overstepping professional boundaries or missing opportunities to support those in need.
 
Read full article here: https://reciprocoach.com/coaching-research#!#189

 

Written by Kerryn Griffiths, PhD, PCC and Global ReciproCoach Coordinator

 

Not yet a member?

Already a member?