‘(The unconscious) is a treasure box where coachees can find their answers’ – An interpretative phenomenological analysis of Jungian coaching

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study aimed to fill in a gap in the research base on the applicability of psychotherapeutic approaches to coaching psychology. Thus, it explored the transference of knowledge, skills and expertise from Jungian psychology into coaching psychology.MethodsThe qualitative study investigated the perceptions and experiences of professional coaches and coaching psychologists with a Jungian approach to coaching, particularly with an intervention called the Jungian coaching method. This was done through semi-structured interviews with 6 professional coaches, from 4 different countries. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyse the collected data.ResultsThree main themes were identified: a unique coaching frame; a Jungian coaching method and its tools support the coach; and a Jungian coaching method and its tools empower the client and enable deeper exploration.DiscussionNovel concept of coaching container is proposed, with the unconscious as an important element. The unique Jungian conceptualisation of the unconscious could be further investigated for its potential contributions to coaching psychology as a resource during the coaching process.ConclusionThe findings suggest that a Jungian approach to coaching might be a feasible application of psychotherapy knowledge into coaching psychology, which enriches the coaching experience of both the coach and the coachee.