This paper presents the findings of a qualitative
research study into critical moments in the coaching
relationship. Interviews were completed with a total of
28 experienced coaches. The research highlighted that
critical moments are unforeseen and characterised by
intense emotions and anxiety within the coaching
relationship. These moments were most often turning
points in the work. Coaching reported that they resulted
in either insight for their clients or a distancing, or
even breakdown, in the coaching relationship. Their
accounts indicate that the outcome of these moments is
influenced by the coach's containment of both their and
their client's emotions. pdf
