When supporting client autonomy, a coach should focus on what?

Focusing on the results and barriers identified by the client is essential for supporting client autonomy because it empowers the client to take ownership of their goals and the process of achieving them. When a coach emphasizes the client’s own insights and challenges, it allows the client to explore their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives, leading to a deeper understanding of their situation. This approach fosters self-awareness and encourages clients to develop their problem-solving skills, rather than relying on the coach for solutions.

This method aligns with the ICF's core values, which emphasize the importance of client-led exploration and the coach's role as a facilitator rather than a decision-maker. By prioritizing the client's identified results and barriers, the coach helps create a collaborative and trusting coaching relationship that nurtures the client's independence and confidence in making their own choices.

Other options, such as making decisions for the client, suggesting improvements without soliciting input, or following a strict agenda would undermine a client's autonomy by limiting their engagement and control over their own coaching journey.