Group Coaching

What is Group Coaching and How will I benefit from it?

A group coaching session is a collaborative effort in which the Coach assumes responsibility for the group and its members. In a typical session, which lasts about 75-90 minutes, members work to express their own problems, feelings, ideas and reactions as freely and honestly as possible. Such exploration gives the group the important information needed to understand and help one another. Members learn not only to understand themselves and their own issues but also become " coaches " for other members.

The Coach appropriately selects people (usually 5 to 10) who would be helped by the group experience and who can be learning partners for one another. In meetings, people are encouraged to talk with each other in a spontaneous and honest fashion. A professionally trained coach , who provides productive examination of the issues or concerns affecting the individuals and the group, guides the discussion.

Not every group is alike. There are a variety of styles that different groups use. For instance, some focus more on interpersonal development, where much of the learning actually comes from the interaction between members. Others address thoughts and behaviors, where the emphasis is on learning how to handle difficult situations, address areas where growth is desired or share tools and processes to achieve shared goals .

The Coach's role is to evaluate each member's problems prior to forming the group. Usually there is a mix of members who can learn from each other. While some members will have similar circumstances, it's not necessary for all to be dealing with exactly the same problem. In fact, people with different strengths and difficulties are often in the best position to help one another.

What kind of commitment do I need to make?

The time commitment depends on the type of group and the nature and extent of your issues . Short-term groups devoted to concrete issues can last anywhere from 6 to 20 weeks. Some Coaching groups designed to take clients through a life changing process can last a year. There are also more open-ended groups in which members work at their own pace and leave when their particular needs or goals have been met. It’s best to talk with your Coach to determine the length of time that’s right for you.

What if I’m uncomfortable discussing my problems in front of others?

It’s not unusual to feel uneasy or embarrassed when first joining a group, but soon you begin to develop feelings of interest and trust. Most clients find that group coaching provides a great deal of relief because it allows them a chance to talk with others who are experiencing similar problems -- in a private, confidential setting. Many people who have experienced group coaching believe that working together with others is helpful and they feel better by participating in this form of coaching.

What does group cost?

The cost varies depending on the type of Coach and perhaps even the geographic area of the country. Typically, group Coaching is about half the price of individual coaching .

Is it covered by insurance?

Coaching is almost never covered by insurance. Some employers pay for coaching and some very good and very innovative health insurance plans pay for some types of coaching, mostly related your health or relationships.

If someone is in a group, do they also need individual Coaching and vice versa?

It depends on the individual. Sometimes group coaching is used as the main or only growth approach. Sometimes it’s used along with individual coaching . Often people find that working simultaneously in both group and individual coaching stimulates growth in mutually complementary ways. And clients may see two different coaches for individual and group coaching, getting the benefit of the coaching style of each . In such cases, it’s generally considered important for the two coaches to communicate with each other periodically for the client’s benefit. Ask your Coach about the type of coaching that will best meet your needs.