Book Review : CO-ACTIVE COACHING

Author : Karen Kimsey-House (Author), Henry Kimsey-House (Author), Phillip Sandahl

I love this book. The layout, the print, the content and the CD! To me, it is one of the most comprehensive “text” books I have ever read and used.

As a coach in training it has been easy for me to read. Perhaps it appeals as some of the language used is familiar to me because of my counselling and psychotherapy background. One way or the other it worked!

The explanation in the preface of the changes that were put into this second edition appealed to me also. Particularly their increased emphasis on what the authors call “dancing in the moment” in coaching work. This was useful when I felt I was getting swamped down with forms/tools to use with clients. I had felt at the beginning that the coaching process was prescriptive, which was contradicting what I thought “process” was about. So, it was like a breath of fresh air to me to that there was potential to `adjust instinctively’ in the work.

The explanations about the purpose of coaching touched my motivation to continue with the training. Especially at the time when it all seemed impossible to achieve! There were challenges that were hindering my ability to “be” 100% (plus!) on the training. The authors belief that coaching is about `discovery, awareness and choice’ in a way helped me to choose to continue. Not only would I achieve a Diploma at the end of the training; I would also discover more about myself and others, and I would become more self aware. In addition, I was to gain valuable tools, experience, and insight that would assist me to continue pursuing my mission in life. To use myself to empower others to be authentic human beings and to “follow their bliss”.

The Co-Active Coaching Model is one I will use in my professional work. Whether that is in purely coaching, and … or in incorporating it into my other portfolios of employment (Stress Management Adviser/ Occupational Health Adviser/Counselling and Psychotherapy). I will, I imagine, use it as a “bible” to remind me of the philosophy behind the coaching model.

The CD with forms and exercises will be invaluable. The glossary is useful to remind myself of the meaning of significant coaching terms. The Appendix will help with organisational impact of coaching and ethics.

I am looking forward to using this book in coaching and in all my work. This book will serve as an “anchor” point for me, especially during times when I might be questioning my ability to provide clients with the space to access their own expert. It will serve as a memory jogger to me, and a reminder that it is ok to be “the model of courageous questioning… to ask tough questions or tell the hard truth” even if my clients do not like what they hear!

Marian Sullivan
PSG Executive and Life Coaching Diploma Student

BSc(Hons)Counselling,MBACP(Accred),  Accredited Dip Executive & Life Coach, RGN, OHND