Mindfulness-based coaching: Conceptualisation, supporting evidence and emerging applications

Abstract

Purpose: The present paper reviews the scholarly literature on mindfulness and coaching and explores the potential contributions to coaching psychology of empirically supported intervention approaches that are based on or incorporate mindfulness concepts or practices. Method: The main psychological mindfulness intervention approaches are described and their effects with non-clinical populations are reviewed. Evidence is then documented to suggest emerging applications of mindfulness interventions to coaching psychology. Results: The evidence reviewed suggests that mindfulness may enhance the well-being and effectiveness of coaches who have a personal practice of mindfulness; improves the well-being and psychological functioning of clients who are taught mindfulness skills; offers a rich repertoire of evidence-based techniques and strategies for facilitating change; and may contribute to theoretical base of coaching psychology, particularly with regards to understanding the process of individual change. Conclusions: This paper makes suggestions for coaching practitioners, discusses practical guidelines for integrating mindfulness into the practice of coaching, and makes recommendations for future research.