Psychological Coaching: Blending Disciplines For Maximum Impact

Assessments are an important tool that can inform the coach on a deeper psychological level. However, some of the better assessments can only be used by those with training in psychology and psychometrics. I co-founded an assessment called PAIRIN that is based on a “psychologist only” platform but produces information that can be utilized with minimal training. Another assessment that I find valuable is the Birkman. It has good psychometrics and is useful in understanding clients’ usual behavior, their needs relative to that behavior and their stress behavior when those needs are not met. I frequently use both the PAIRIN and the Birkman models with my coaching clients.

In my coaching and consulting firm, our clients complete an assessment before their second session as a way to help match them to the right coach and determine if a counselor is a better fit. We celebrate the unique value of coaches and counselors as we collaborate to bring the best of both disciplines to our clients.

If you are a helping professional in coaching or counseling, I encourage you to consider getting additional training in the other discipline. Another option is to find helping professionals in the alternate discipline and build a collaborative relationship. I believe you will find that blended services will lead to maximum impact for your clients. And isn’t that the end goal of your work as a helping professional?

Read the full article from Forbes written by Dr. Ron Young. Dr. Ron Young, Founder and Board Chair of  Trove, Inc. Ron specializes in psychological coaching & transition consulting. Leveraging a unique skill set, diverse experiences & existing resources, Ron provides executives with a confidential & objective source of advice & counsel on personal, professional, & organizational issues. He guides them through discovery processes that increase personal effectiveness & contextual contribution.