This lesson will explore the elements, prerequisites, and goals that frame an effective coaching session. We also explore the process of coaching, both early and late in the interviewee’s career, and look at the common areas of focus. A demonstration is provided of an effective coaching session. 

Being a good coach

We ask you to think of good and bad coaches in your life and create a list of the attributes that made them a positive influence. A list of attributes that are commonly used to describe a good coach is provided. It’s important to remember that although the coaching session may be routine for the coaches, it is not routine for the person being coached.

Practitioners Being Coached

Prior to the coaching session, the person being coached can come in with different common emotions regarding the session. As coaches, our job is to respond in a way that enhances openness to learning and improving. It’s important to remember that the purpose of coaching sessions is to help the staff member improve their MI skills. A list is provided that contains common feelings practitioners could have prior to a coaching session.

Common Skill Deficits

There are four skills that staff members commonly show in their interviews that are being reviewed in the coaching session. We look at each of these four skill deficits in greater detail and explore the elements of each that could be restated to the client to enhance their understanding and use of the skill.

Coaching Session Process 

The first coaching process consists of seven parts. Depending on how well you know the staff member being coached you can decide which may or may not be necessary. We list and explain the seven steps in detail. After the first session, all seven steps may not be necessary when conducting later coaching sessions, a list of elements and instructions for both the trainee and the coach is explored for standard coaching sessions. We provide an opportunity for you to listen to a coaching demonstration to further your understanding of the process.

Coaching Setting

The coaching setting can be either individual or group sessions. There are advantages and disadvantages to each of these settings. We list the options a coach has for methods of conducting individual and group sessions. Coaches will sometimes conduct individual sessions at the beginning of coaching, and will later move them to small group for booster sessions once they have reach competency in MI. Remember to continue coaching so skills don't diminish. 

Please Note : As part of our content licensing agreement, these Motivational Interviewing courses are intended only for those practicing or providing services in Michigan, and only provide CEUs valid to Michigan providers. By enrolling in these courses you certify that you meet this criteria.

1. List attributes of a good coach.
2. Describe some of the differences among those you will coach.
3. Describe how to create a “good enough” learning environment.
4. Take a look longer at coaching and list the goals and methods for coaching.
5. Describe some steps in the coaching process.
6. When you talk to your staff, we’ll list some feedback considerations.
7. We will list some skill deficits that are common with trainees.
8. Demonstrate a typical coaching session.
9. List possible settings for conducting a coaching session.