How does an existential coach express respect for the client?

An existential coach expresses respect for the client by accepting their worldview in the current encounter. This approach emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing the client's unique perspective and experiences. In existential coaching, the focus is on understanding the individual within their specific context and helping them navigate their thoughts, feelings, and choices based on their own values and beliefs. Acceptance fosters an environment where clients feel safe to explore their identities and confront existential themes such as meaning, choice, and isolation, contributing to their personal growth and self-awareness.

In contrast, aggressive challenges to beliefs, emotional distance, or imposing one’s values would not promote a respectful and supportive coaching relationship. Such approaches can create barriers to open communication and understanding, ultimately hindering the client’s ability to engage meaningfully in their own process. Respect in coaching is rooted in empathy and validation of the client's subjective experience.