In a recent coaching session, a client shared that she felt she should be lying on a couch, like in a therapist’s office, as she shared her hopes and fears, frustrations and challenges. It might surprise you to know that I hear this quite often.
I am not a therapist and have not studied therapy, so therefore I could not be practicing therapy as I am not quite sure I would know how — given my lack of training or knowledge. Yet, clients gain a sense of relief and hope when we work together. What is it that I do?
I listen. Deeply, thoroughly, without judgment and with no agenda.
To make sure I hear correctly and understand, I play back what I hear, confirming with the client what I heard them share. From this deep level of listening, my clients know they are understood (or they clarify what I heard) and the playback allows them to hear “out loud” for a second time what they shared. From there, my clients can take their knowledge of self and situation to an even deeper level, discovering and uncovering the ideas and solutions that will serve them best.
Imagine how you would feel if someone truly and deeply listened to you? How powerful could it be if you truly listened to someone else? No couch required!