Research

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The Boundary and Overlap with Therapy in Executive Coaching – A Study Using Q Methodology

Abstract

Most executive coaches are not therapeutically trained and there is concern that they might have difficulty identifying and managing boundaries with therapy. This study explores how executive coaches from a non-psychology background experience the boundary. Using Q methodology, coaches ranked statements representing the range of responses to working with the boundary and overlap, leading to a proposed typology of how practitioners perceive and work in this space. Four types of practitioners were identified: Conscious, Confused, Conscientious and Confident. The typology offers executive coaching stakeholders a framework for reflection and discussion to further consider the issue in practice.

Kitchin, L. (2024) 'The Boundary and Overlap with Therapy in Executive Coaching – A Study Using Q Methodology ', International Journal of Evidence Based Coaching and Mentoring, (S18), pp.67-82. DOI: 10.24384/fned-mr57