In order for Christian coaches to effectively assist others they
must have an understanding of their foundational Biblical beliefs and cultivate
a continued relationship with God (Collins, 2009). If Christian coaches follow
the principles given to mankind in the Bible, they will be able to build strong
ethical relationships that are effective for the client and honor God. God gives us many examples of how to build
relationships in the Bible.
Building relationships requires time
focusing on that individual intimately. Constructing strong affiliations requires
a coach have excellent skills in active listening (Macintosh, 2009).
Familiarity has been proven by research to build rapport among people
(Macintosh, 2009). Intimacy can only occur when the coach provides time that is
without interruption for their client. A client must be able to share
themselves confidentiality and without judgment, for a therapeutic relationship
to develop (Collins, 2009).
A coach’s role is not to give
advice, but to stand beside and encourage clients to reach their potential (Collins,
2009). Ethically a coach has the responsibility to refer a client to another
professional in areas which the coach is not proficient (Collins, 2009).
Furthermore, a coach/ client relationship requires that affiliation be focused
on the client being coached to be therapeutic (Collins, 2009). To become an excellent life coach, requires a
commitment to life- long education and development (Collins, 2009). An
effective way to start a coach/ client relationship is to provide a clear
explanation of the role and boundaries of the coach in the initial meeting with
the client (Collins, 2009). It is wise for a coach to have accountability
partners and counsel regarding their practice and own life (Collins, 2009). The
most effective coaches also receive life-coaching at different stages of their life
in order to enhance their own practice and life (Collins, 2009). The Bible states “Where no wise guidance is
the people fall, but in the multitude of counsel there is safety” (Proverbs,
11:14). Networking, learning, accountability and receiving counsel is the only
way to truly insure that a coaching practice remains ethical.
References
