The impact of a mindfulness practice on the coach's experience of countertransference: A thematic analysis.
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| Title: | The impact of a mindfulness practice on the coach's experience of countertransference: A thematic analysis. |
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| Authors: | Hugh, Jodi (AUTHOR), Nacif, Ana Paula (AUTHOR) |
| Source: | International Coaching Psychology Review. Atumn2025, Vol. 20 Issue 2, p26-39. 14p. |
| Subjects: | Mindfulness, Countertransference (Psychology), Thematic analysis, Somatic sensation, Coaching (Athletics), Therapeutic alliance, Self regulation, Personal coaching |
| Abstract: | Purpose: This study explores how mindfulness practice influences coaches' experiences of countertransference, from the perspective of the coach. Method: It uses thematic analysis to analyse the data. Nine coaches participated in the study, all of whom had three or more years of coaching and mindfulness experience and a theoretical understanding of countertransference. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. Results: Results indicated that mindfulness practice had an impact on coaches' experience of countertransference when working with a client; in particular, enhanced somatic cognisance, awareness, and self-regulation capabilities. Three themes with related subthemes emerged from the key findings: somatic significance, coaching with full awareness, and self-regulation strategies, all of which appear to support coaches' ability to identify and manage countertransference. Discussion: Findings are explored and discussed in the context of countertransference and mindfulness with reference to existing theoretical and empirical studies. Theories on embodiment, self-reflection, self-regulation and therapeutical presence are considered useful frameworks through which to interpret findings. Limitations of the study and suggestions for future research are noted. Conclusion: Mindfulness practice can contribute to the personal and professional development of the coach thereby impacting the coach's capacity to recognise and productively manage the experience of countertransference, which can strengthen the coaching alliance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
| Copyright of International Coaching Psychology Review is the property of British Psychological Society and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) | |
| Database: | Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
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| Abstract: | Purpose: This study explores how mindfulness practice influences coaches' experiences of countertransference, from the perspective of the coach. Method: It uses thematic analysis to analyse the data. Nine coaches participated in the study, all of whom had three or more years of coaching and mindfulness experience and a theoretical understanding of countertransference. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. Results: Results indicated that mindfulness practice had an impact on coaches' experience of countertransference when working with a client; in particular, enhanced somatic cognisance, awareness, and self-regulation capabilities. Three themes with related subthemes emerged from the key findings: somatic significance, coaching with full awareness, and self-regulation strategies, all of which appear to support coaches' ability to identify and manage countertransference. Discussion: Findings are explored and discussed in the context of countertransference and mindfulness with reference to existing theoretical and empirical studies. Theories on embodiment, self-reflection, self-regulation and therapeutical presence are considered useful frameworks through which to interpret findings. Limitations of the study and suggestions for future research are noted. Conclusion: Mindfulness practice can contribute to the personal and professional development of the coach thereby impacting the coach's capacity to recognise and productively manage the experience of countertransference, which can strengthen the coaching alliance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| ISSN: | 17502764 |
| DOI: | 10.53841/bpsicpr.2025.20.2.26 |
