Proposed Lexicon Clarifies Coaching Terminology Across Health Professions

Coaching is being utilized for professional growth, well-being, and performance among healthcare professionals. However, variability in terminology regarding the coaching format, coaching modality, coaching type, coaching framework, and coaching focus creates obstacles, as it impedes a shared understanding and limits the advancement of coaching research. In this Scholarly Perspective, the authors, who are members of the Collaborative for Healing and Renewal in Medicine Coaching Network, emphasize that definitions matter when clarifying what coaching is in order to better understand its impact.

Within their work, the authors set out to accomplish four primary aims: first, to clarify essential coaching terms by proposing standard definitions along with commonly used synonyms; second, to clearly distinguish professional (developmental) coaching from other supportive relationships that use the "coach approach," including mentoring, advising, and therapy; third, to describe foundational elements of the coaching process; and fourth, to outline pathways to become a coach.

Beyond clarifying core coaching terminology, the authors also explicitly distinguish between coach training, certification, credentialing, and accreditation. Ultimately, this proposed standardized lexicon can serve as a unifying reference point when designing, implementing, and evaluating professional coaching programs across the health professions.