Why coaching instead of therapy?
First of all, I want to explicitly state that I think therapy in itself is very important and meaningful. In some cases, coaching is not enough. At the same time, many concerns do not require therapy. For me, coaching simply fits better.
Coach Out of Conviction
Even though I have the certification as a non-medical practitioner for psychotherapy and corresponding training, I do not offer therapy. On the one hand, I rarely find the issuance of diagnoses meaningful. It stigmatizes, is deficit-oriented, and can tempt one not to adequately consider the individuality of the individual.
Diagnoses can be rather hindering for some affected individuals because:
- they are ashamed of the diagnosis, which weakens their self-worth.
- pathologization happens far too quickly.
- they keep those affected in a victim mentality (e.g., "I am borderline, I cannot help it").
- Diagnoses can also be made incorrectly. This can lead to real difficulties, e.g., when choosing health insurance or applying for civil servant status.
- affected individuals sometimes identify with the diagnosis. It gives them the status of being "special." A positive secondary gain from illness that can slow down therapy success.
Therapy is also important
The diagnosis becomes helpful for me when there is a risk to oneself or others because the person is experiencing acute delusions. For example, in schizophrenia, mania, or depression. In these cases, in my opinion, rapid and competent action must be taken.
In my field of work, these are rather exceptions. I am a coach because I think that pathological behavior is in most cases an adequate reaction of the brain to difficult experiences – and thus an important attempt at a solution. Not sick, but clever. Even if this attempt at a solution often has unfavorable side effects.
Coaching is an encounter on equal terms
That's why the term client doesn't fit for me. The word is derived from the Latin "cliens" and literally means "the dependant", "the subservient".
For me, that implies a hierarchy that is not on equal footing.
I am a service provider – which means I always work on a commissioned basis. I assume a responsible customer. No one knows better what a customer needs than they do themselves. Sometimes my job is to figure out precisely that with my customers.
There is no resistance. If the client does not cooperate, there are always important reasons for it. If the client does not cooperate, the root cause for me always lies in a lack of flexibility on the part of the coach/therapist.
My customers come voluntarily.
The term customer suits me best , because it perfectly reflects my inner attitude.
In coaching, the customer is king
My clients can always choose whether my offer fits their needs. If my offer does not fit, I provide additional information. If it still remains implausible for my clients, we work out other possibilities.
I always make offers. When I share my impression, it never claims to be the absolute truth. If it doesn't work for you, I am the one who is on the wrong track.
With me, as a client, you are king over the content. I am an expert for your successful change process.
