Proven Coaching Models

Master evidence-based coaching frameworks and methodologies that drive transformational client outcomes.

Effective coaching relies on proven frameworks that provide structure, direction, and measurable outcomes. These evidence-based models have been refined through decades of practice and research, offering coaches reliable pathways to facilitate meaningful client transformations.

GROW Model

The most widely used coaching framework, providing a clear structure for goal-oriented conversations.

GGoal

What do you want to achieve? Define clear, specific outcomes and vision.

RReality

What is the current situation? Explore present circumstances objectively.

OOptions

What could you do? Generate multiple pathways and creative solutions.

WWay Forward

What will you do? Commit to specific actions with timelines and accountability.

GROW Model Questions Template

Goal Questions:

• What would you like to focus on today?
• How will you know you've achieved this goal?
• What would success look like?

Reality Questions:

• What's happening right now?
• What have you tried so far?
• What obstacles are you facing?

Options Questions:

• What options do you have?
• What else could you try?
• What would you do if resources weren't an issue?

Way Forward Questions:

• What will you do next?
• When will you take this action?
• How committed are you to this plan (1-10)?

OSKAR Model

A solution-focused approach that emphasizes strengths, resources, and positive outcomes.

O

Outcome

What do you want to achieve?

S

Scaling

Where are you now (1-10)?

K

Know-how

What skills do you have?

A

Affirm

What's working well?

R

Review

What will you do next?

When to Use OSKAR

  • Client feels stuck or overwhelmed
  • Need to build confidence and momentum
  • Focus on strengths rather than problems
  • Quick breakthrough sessions needed

CBT-Based Coaching

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy principles adapted for coaching to address limiting beliefs and thought patterns.

Core Principles

Thoughts → Feelings → Actions

Understanding the connection between cognitive patterns and behavior.

Identifying Cognitive Distortions

Recognizing unhelpful thinking patterns that limit potential.

Reframing Techniques

Developing more balanced and empowering perspectives.

Common Cognitive Distortions

All-or-NothingBlack and white thinking
CatastrophizingExpecting worst-case scenarios
Mind ReadingAssuming others' thoughts
PersonalizationTaking responsibility for everything
Should StatementsRigid expectations and rules

CBT Thought Record Template

Situation

What happened?

Thoughts

What went through your mind?

Feelings

How did you feel? (Rate 1-10)

Balanced Thought

What's a more balanced perspective?

NLP-Based Coaching

Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques for rapid change and enhanced communication.

Anchoring

Create positive state associations through sensory triggers.

Use for: Confidence building, peak state access

Reframing

Change meaning by shifting perspective on experiences.

Use for: Overcoming limiting beliefs, finding opportunities

Timeline Therapy

Release negative emotions and create compelling futures.

Use for: Goal setting, trauma resolution, motivation

Well-Formed Outcome (NLP Goal Setting)

  • Specific: What exactly do you want?
  • Evidence: How will you know you've achieved it?
  • Control: What can you personally influence?
  • Resources: What do you need to succeed?
  • Ecology: How does this fit with your life?

Representational Systems

Visual: "I see what you mean"
Auditory: "That sounds right"
Kinesthetic: "I feel good about this"
Digital: "That makes sense"

Solution-Focused Coaching

Brief therapy principles focused on solutions rather than problems, emphasizing client strengths and resources.

Key Techniques

Miracle Question

"If a miracle happened overnight and your problem was solved, what would be different?"

Exception Finding

"When was a time this problem wasn't happening? What was different then?"

Scaling Questions

"On a scale of 1-10, where are you now? What would move you up one point?"

Core Assumptions

Clients are the experts on their own lives
Small changes can lead to big differences
Focus on solutions, not problems
If it works, do more of it
Every client has strengths and resources

Choosing the Right Model

Client Factors

  • Learning Style: Visual, auditory, kinesthetic preferences
  • Problem Type: Specific goal vs. complex life situation
  • Timeline: Quick breakthrough vs. long-term development
  • Mindset: Problem-focused vs. solution-focused

Session Context

  • First Session: GROW for goal clarity, OSKAR for rapport
  • Stuck Pattern: CBT for limiting beliefs, NLP for rapid change
  • Goal Setting: GROW for structure, NLP for compelling outcomes
  • Crisis/Overwhelm: Solution-focused for immediate relief

Integration Framework

Master coaches seamlessly blend multiple models within a single session, adapting their approach based on client needs and session dynamics.

Assessment Phase

Use OSKAR scaling to gauge current state and GROW reality questions to understand context.

Exploration Phase

Apply CBT thought records for limiting beliefs, solution-focused exceptions for strengths.

Action Phase

Use GROW way forward for commitment, NLP well-formed outcomes for compelling goals.