Introduction to Transformational Coaching

There are two ways that people learn. The first is linear incremental learning in which people learn skills and abilities by building stepwise on previously learned skills. However while learning new skills what does not change in this type of learning is the person. Transformational learning occurs when the person changes their view of themselves and the world in which they live. They may not learn a new skill but they will learn to offer their skills in more effective and efficient ways. Spiritually this type of transformational learning is called, enlightenment, conversion or being born again.

Skill and competency development is often a linear incremental process that is common in many forms of coaching. As people develop their skills they incrementally learn new techniques and competencies to improve their performance. For example, a Preacher may be trained in a variety of competencies to improve their preaching. Transformational learning when a person experiences a leap of awareness. For example, a Pastor may discover their identity as a Preacher which transforms the power of their preaching. While their preaching skills may not change, parishioners may describe the persons preaching as having more authority and conviction.

In our coach training we use a series of appreciative inquiry based strategies that we call the Appreciative Way and Appreciative Coaching to empower people to transform their lives.

Transformational Coach Training Programs

The Clergy Leadership Institute provides several programs for those interested in developing their appreciative inquiry based transformational coaching skills

• Introduction to Appreciative Inquiry
• Introduction to Appreciative Coaching
• Foundations of Appreciative Coaching
• Coaching Competent Leaders
• Advanced Coach Training
• Year-long, Weekly Teleconference

Note:The Foundations class is a week-long format that presents the same material as the two half-week introductory programs. While the content is the same the material is presented in an alternative sequence to allow the coach training to be focussed on throughout the week.

Eligibility Requirements to take Appreciative Coach Training

To participate in our Appreciative Coach training programs participants must have:

• A graduate level degree (MDiv, MA, MS etc.) in the helping sciences
• A graduate level degree (MBA, MS, etc.) in business or science plus 3 years of experience in a leadership role.
• An undergraduate degree (BA, BS etc.) plus 7 years of experience in a leadership role.

Note: Work experience must be in a leadership capacity that is applicable to the work of clergy and others in leadership roles. In addition all candidates must be able to reflect theologically and psychologically on their life and work.

Who Should Attend Appreciative Coach Training

• Clergy
• Psychologists, Consultants and Counselors
  who are also clergy or who work with clergy and churches
• Leaders who coach or mentor staff and volunteers
• Psychologists, Counselors and Coaches
  who want to work as Life Coaches.

While primarily oriented toward clergy and those who work with clergy an church leaders, our programs are also open to those who have substantial experience as a Coach or mentor and who can reflect theologically and psychologically on their coaching and are interested in using their spiritual resources and understanding in their coaching.

Workshop Format

The workshop will typically be conducted in a retreat setting with:

• Didactic presentations>
• Personal practice and experience of coaching exercises
• Time for personal reflection and synthesis

Costs

Please see the individual programs for the specific program costs. These may vary slightly depending on the location.

Principal Trainer

Rob Voyle is an ordained Episcopal priest, psychologist, and executive coach. He is the Director of the Clergy Leadership Institute. Rob was an original faculty member, and taught for five years at the College of Executive Coaching where he taught and coached hundreds of personal and executive coaches how to use appreciative inquiry as a basis for their coaching work.

Registration for Workshop

To register for the workshop please go to the training schedule and select register for the appropriate workshop. For additional information please contact Rob Voyle