Article
Exploring relational dialogue in solution-focused coaching sessions: An analysis of co-construction and reflection
Developmental Neurorehabilitation
(2020)
Abstract
Purpose: To examine solution-focused coaching (SFC) as a means to enhance clinicians’ professional
development.
Methods: Six pediatric rehabilitation clinicians (three physical, two occupational, and one behavior
therapist) each received two SFC sessions targeting clinical listening goals. Conversational intervals were
noted in session transcriptions. Frequencies of relational strategies and conversational intervals were
calculated. The meaning of intervals > 10 s was examined.
Results: The most frequent relational strategies indicated that SFC facilitates reflection and critical
thinking, and encourages action. An appreciable number of long intervals (>10 s) occurred, indicating
substantial reflection by participants. These were embedded in relational dialogue sequences involving
coach questions and formulations, and participant pauses.
Conclusions: The findings support the use of SFC as a professional development tool and substantiate
the view that SFC ‘works’ through the coach’s use of relational strategies designed to facilitate
collaborative conversations that build solutions through an emphasis on reflection and action.
Keywords
- Communication skills; conversational elements; listening skills; pediatric rehabilitation; professional development; solutionfocused
Disciplines
Publication Date
2020
DOI
10.1080/17518423.2020.1711542
Citation Information
King, G., Baldwin, P., Servais, M., Moodie, S., & Kim, J. (2020). Exploring relational dialogue in solution-focused coaching sessions: An analysis of co-construction and reflection. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 23(6), 390-401. doi.org/10.1080/17518423.2020.1711542