The Coaching Psychology Update

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Jul 2026

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The Division of Coaching Psychology provides podcasts from the committee and its members in a collaborative space to share key areas of focus with the DoCP community. In addition, it provides opportunities for voices from the committee as well as its members to be heard to share in professional learning conversations and research to enable others and its community to flourish.

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36 recent

July 21, 202619 min

16 - Growing Coaching Psychology: National & International Partnerships That Shape the Profession

How do you grow a profession? It starts with building meaningful relationships. In this episode of the British Psychological Society Division of Coaching Psychology Podcast, Toy Odiakosa, National Outreach Lead, and Nathalie Lerotić Pavlik, International Outreach Lead, explore how strategic partnerships are helping to shape the future of coaching psychology across the UK and around the world. From collaborating with organisations across the four nations of the UK to developing international relationships with coaching psychology bodies in Europe, Africa, Asia and Australasia, this conversation highlights why outreach is about much more than networking. It is about strengthening professional standards, sharing knowledge, promoting evidence-based practice and creating opportunities for members to learn, collaborate and influence the future of the profession. The discussion also explores the unique challenges of building sustainable partnerships across cultures, time zones and professional landscapes, while reflecting on the exciting opportunities ahead for Coaching Psychology as an increasingly global discipline. In this episode, you'll discover: * Why national and international partnerships matter for Coaching Psychology * How the Division works with organisations across the UK and internationally * The growing global interest in Coaching Psychology and Chartered status * The role of evidence-based practice in strengthening professional recognition * Challenges and opportunities in building long-term collaborations * How members can contribute to the Division's outreach activities and international community Whether you're a Coaching Psychologist, researcher, practitioner or simply interested in how professions grow and evolve, this episode offers a fascinating insight into the relationships helping to shape the future of Coaching Psychology. If you have connections with coaching psychology organisations in the UK or overseas, or would like to become involved in the Division's outreach activities, the team would love to hear from you.

July 20, 202619 min

15 - Research Communities of Learning: Strengthening Evidence-Based Coaching Psychology

How can coaching psychologists bridge the gap between research and practice? In this episode of the British Psychological Society Division of Coaching Psychology Podcast, Dr Lizana Oberholzer explains why the Division created its Research Communities of Learning and how they are helping researchers and practitioners collaborate to strengthen evidence-based coaching psychology. Drawing on feedback from members, Lizana explores the challenges many practitioners face when engaging with research, navigating ethics processes and developing research that supports Chartered Coaching Psychologist status. She outlines how the Division's strategy brings together experienced researchers, emerging researchers and practising coaching psychologists to share expertise, develop confidence and advance the profession together. The episode also explores key research themes including Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), climate-conscious coaching, neurodiversity, menopause, organisational coaching and long-term health conditions, while highlighting why curiosity, collaboration and evidence-informed practice are central to the future of coaching psychology. In this episode, you'll discover: Why the Division established Research Communities of Learning How practitioners and researchers can collaborate more effectively The importance of evidence-based coaching psychology Support available for research, ethics and professional development Emerging research priorities across coaching psychology How research contributes to Chartered Coaching Psychologist status and ongoing professional practice Opportunities for members to become involved in research communities Whether you're an experienced researcher, an emerging Coaching Psychologist, or a practitioner looking to strengthen your evidence-informed practice, this episode demonstrates how research and professional learning can work together to shape the future of Coaching Psychology. If you'd like to join one of the Division's Research Communities of Learning, contribute to future research projects, or connect with fellow researchers and practitioners, the Division would love to hear from you.

July 15, 202628 min

14 - How to Become a Chartered Coaching Psychologist: The Professional Recognition Route (PRR)

What does it mean to become a Chartered Coaching Psychologist, and is the Professional Recognition Route (PRR) the right pathway for you? In this episode of the British Psychological Society Division of Coaching Psychology Podcast, Dr Shirley Large, Portfolio Advisor, and Alison Cole, Chief Assessor, explore the Professional Recognition Route (PRR) and explain how experienced, psychologically informed coaching practitioners can achieve Chartered Coaching Psychologist status through this Level 8 (doctoral-level) professional award. Together, they discuss what chartership represents, why professional recognition matters, and how the PRR enables practitioners to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, behaviours and reflective practice expected of a Chartered Coaching Psychologist. The conversation also provides practical guidance on developing a portfolio, the importance of supervision, the support available throughout the process, and how the Division is continuing to shape the future of coaching psychology. In this episode, you'll discover: * What it means to be a Chartered Coaching Psychologist * Why the Professional Recognition Route was developed * How the PRR differs from a training programme * The purpose of the professional portfolio and Level 8 assessment * The role of supervision, critical reflection and professional identity * Workshops, Q&A sessions and support available to applicants * The future of Chartered Coaching Psychology and the growing profession Whether you're an experienced coaching practitioner, a psychologist considering chartership, or simply curious about the future of Coaching Psychology, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the profession's most respected pathways for professional recognition. Find out more Visit the BPS Division of Coaching Psychology pages to explore the Professional Recognition Route, eligibility requirements, upcoming Q&A sessions and additional guidance for prospective applicants.

July 9, 202620 min

13 - Welcome to the Division of Coaching Psychology: Membership, Research and Professional Growth

Welcome to the official podcast of the British Psychological Society Division of Coaching Psychology. In this introductory episode, Dr Lizana Oberholzer , Chair of the Division, shares the vision behind the newly refreshed podcast and explains how it will become a platform for members to share ideas, research, experiences and professional conversations from across the coaching psychology community. Lizana also provides an overview of the Division's work, highlighting the initiatives, partnerships and opportunities available to members. From research communities and mentoring programmes to free CPD events, peer practice groups, international collaborations and climate-conscious coaching, this episode offers a comprehensive introduction to the vibrant and growing Coaching Psychology community. In this episode: The vision for the Division of Coaching Psychology Podcast How the Division supports coaching psychologists throughout their careers Research communities, mentoring and peer practice groups Free CPD opportunities and professional development Equality, Diversity and Inclusion initiatives International partnerships and collaborative research Publishing opportunities through the Division's journals How members can shape the future of coaching psychology Whether you're an established Coaching Psychologist, working towards Chartered status, a researcher, or considering joining the Division for the first time, this episode provides an excellent introduction to the opportunities, support and community available through the Division of Coaching Psychology. If you'd like to become more involved, explore one of the Division's sub-committees, contribute to research, attend CPD events or connect with fellow members, we encourage you to get involved and help shape the future of coaching psychology.

July 3, 20264 min

12 - Why Join the BPS Division of Coaching Psychology? 8 Member Benefits Explained

Whether you're already a member of the British Psychological Society (BPS) or considering joining the Division of Coaching Psychology (DOCP), this episode explores the real value of membership and the practical benefits available to coaching psychologists at every stage of their career. Natalie and Toye take you through eight key benefits of BPS and DOCP membership, from discounted professional indemnity insurance and tax relief to access to world-class journals, research resources and exclusive publishing discounts. They also highlight the vibrant professional community available through networking opportunities, peer practice groups and the Division's renowned CPD events. You'll also discover the additional benefits exclusive to DOCP members, including access to The Coaching Psychologist and the International Coaching Psychology Review , professional learning conversations, journal clubs, workshops, annual conferences and support for independent research through ethics review and research methodology webinars. Whether you're training, building your practice or working towards Chartered status, this episode explains how BPS and DOCP membership can support your professional development, expand your network and provide valuable resources throughout your coaching psychology career. In this episode you'll discover: The financial benefits of BPS membership Professional indemnity insurance and tax relief Access to leading psychology journals and research resources Publishing discounts and academic support Networking opportunities across the psychology profession DOCP-exclusive CPD events and annual conference Peer practice groups and coaching psychology podcasts Research support and ethics guidance for practitioners If you're thinking about joining the Division of Coaching Psychology - or simply want to make the most of your membership - this episode provides an excellent overview of what's available and why membership continues to be such a valuable investment in your professional development.

July 3, 202651 min

11 - The Future Is Inclusive: Mentoring, Representation and Professional Growth

What does a truly inclusive future for coaching psychology look like? In this opening episode of the reimagined Division of Coaching Psychology Podcast, Lizana Oberholzer is joined by Ify Nonyelu , Rosie Darbyshire and Cordet Smart for an insightful conversation exploring diversity, mentoring and the future of the profession. Together, they discuss why representation matters, how different cultural perspectives can strengthen coaching psychology, and why understanding the whole person is essential to effective coaching. From identity and belonging to unconscious bias, intersectionality and professional development, the panel reflects on how diversity can enrich both practitioners and the communities they serve. The conversation also introduces the Division's new mentoring initiative, designed to support aspiring and established coaching psychologists alike, creating opportunities to learn, connect and grow together. Whether you're an experienced coaching psychologist, early in your career, or simply interested in the future of the profession, this episode offers thoughtful reflections on building a more inclusive, representative and psychologically informed coaching community. In this episode, we explore: Why diversity and representation matter in coaching psychology The role of mentoring in professional growth and confidence How culture, identity and lived experience shape coaching practice The importance of recognising unconscious bias and embracing different perspectives Why coaching psychology benefits from a wider range of voices How you can become involved in the Division's mentoring initiative If you'd like to become a mentor or mentee, visit the British Psychological Society Division of Coaching Psychology to find out more and register your interest.

December 1, 2024Episode 101 hr 1 min

10: Technology in Coaching

In this last episode for Series 3, Dr Natalie Lancer and our panel of experts, Sam Isaacson, Professor Nicky Terblanche, and Alex Haitoglou, delve into the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and coaching psychology. They discuss the critical need for coaches to understand technology, the nascent research on AI in coaching, and the rapid advancements in AI. We explore AI's capabilities in coaching as well as potential benefits, concerns and ethical issues. We discuss the importance of coaches adapting to technological changes while maintaining the uniquely human aspects of their practice. We consider: What is the impact of technology, specifically AI, on coaching psychology? How is human interaction affected by AI? How important is it for coaches to keep up-to-date with AI and technology? Which are the technologies currently shaping the coaching industry? What is the current state of research on AI and coaching? How can coaches balance the use of technology and AI in their practice? How can AI be appropriately integrated into coaching practices? What are the risks, challenges and benefits of integrating AI and technology with coaching? What are some of the ethical considerations around the use of AI in coaching, on which coaches may wish to reflect? What are the needs and challenges for regulation of AI in coaching? Our experts also considered future trends, including conversational AI and immersive technologies. We know that these AI and technological tools will play a significant role in delivering coaching at scale and enhancing remote coaching experiences. Therefore, adapting to technology is not optional; it is essential for effective coaching. There is a need for more research to fully understand how AI can serve as a beneficial tool for coaches and their clients. Our guests today are: Sam Isaacson is a coachtech thought leader, as well as a coach, coach supervisor and consultant. He writes a regular LinkedIn newsletter and has written several books, including How to Thrive as a Coach in a Digital World (Open University Press, 2021) and Superhuman Coaching (Hanwell Publishing, 2022). He is the founder of the Coachtech Collective, a global community of coaches grappling with technology, and works closely with EMCC Global on the development of thinking around technology and ethics. He is Chair of the Coaching Professional apprenticeship. Sam has experience in a disruptive coaching technology start-up and coaching in virtual reality. Alex Haitoglou is co-founder and CEO of Ovida, has created the world's first AI platform aimed at enhancing the fundamental soft skills of leadership and coaching. Ovida's mission is to use AI and human expertise to enhance people and organisations' communication potential. In collaboration with academics, Ovida is used for training and research. This platform supports leaders and coaches in their growth by providing AI-generated objective data, video reviews for self-reflection, and expert human mentoring. Alex formerly worked with Procter & Gamble in global business roles and also led their global Grow Coaching programme, training hundreds of leaders and business coaches in coaching skills. Prof. Nicky Terblanche is an academic, researcher, leadership coach, entrepreneur and research lead at Ovida. He is also the founder and CEO of CoachVici.com which creates AI Coaches for organisations. He has a Master's degree and PhD in Leadership Coaching and a Master's degree in Electronic and Software Engineering. He is Associate Professor of Leadership Coaching and Research Methodology at Stellenbosch Business School, South Africa. His research interests include leadership coaching with a focus on AI Coaching. Nicky has published more than 30 peer-reviewed research articles and book chapters and regularly presents at international conferences as a keynote speaker. Your host, Dr Natalie Lancer , is a Chartered Coaching Psychologist, and British Psychological Society (BPS) Registered Supervisor. She is the Chair of the BPS's Division of Coaching Psychology and an accredited member of the Association for Coaching. She is the host of this podcast series and invites you to email any comments to docp-tcppod@bps.org.uk https://www.bps.org.uk/member-networks/division-coaching-psychology © British Psychological Society 2024

November 1, 2024Episode 91 hr 7 min

09: Humour in coaching

In this podcast episode, host Dr. Natalie Lancer is joined by Angie Belcher, Harriet Beveridge and Stuart Goldsmith to explore the intersection of humour and coaching. Angie, a comedian and comedy educator, shares her experience using stand-up as a therapeutic tool for diverse groups, including men at risk of suicide and army veterans. Harriet, a corporate coach, key-note speaker and stand-up comedian, discusses humour's role in offering new perspectives and building rapport. Stuart, a corporate speaker on the Climate Crisis and Resilience gives us insights on using humour to facilitate personal growth and cultural change. We discuss: How can you use humour in coaching? Where is the intersection between comedy and coaching? How can comedy be used to build rapport? In what ways can comedy be used as a therapeutic or coaching tool? What's the link between comedy and trauma? How do you coach people to learn comedy? What is the purpose of humour and making people laugh? How are psychological models used in comedy? How can we use comedy to help people take a different perspective? What can we learn from comedians about vulnerability, resilience and authenticity? There are many transferable skills we can take from comedy to enhance our coaching practice such as relationship building and creating psychological safety. Furthermore, working with comedy can help clients reframe risk and failure and cultivate their ability to get into a peak performance state. We also explore the role of comedy in a variety of settings including building new mothers' confidence and working with NHS patients, army veterans and men at risk of suicide. Our guests today are: Harriet Beveridge is an executive coach providing support challenge to senior individuals and teams, stand-up comic and keynote speaker, helping individuals, teams and organisations in the corporate world to 'stand up and thrive'. She blends business coaching, comedy and neuroscience. Harriet has appeared on BBC Radio 4 and TEDx talking about the power of humour to raise wellbeing and performance. She has taken four solo stand-up comedy shows to the Edinburgh Fringe. Her latest show focussed on 'neuroscience with lashings of laughs'. She is co-author of the bestselling business book, 'Will It Make The Boat Go Faster?' and has over 20 years' coaching experience. Harriet is also a mental health first aider and is currently studying for an MSc in the Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health at King's College, London. Angie Belcher is a coach, comedian, award-winning workshop trainer, comedy educator and keynote speaker, specialising in the link between comedy, mental health and personal development. Her Comedy On Referral programme uses stand-up comedy workshops to help people in recovery from trauma for the NHS, and she was also commissioned by the NHS to provide stand-up comedy projects for men at risk of suicide through the charity Rethink. She teaches comedy to CEOs and staff at major organisations and has a daytime comedy club AFTERMIRTH and ELDERMIRTH providing entertainment to new parents and people in care homes respectively. She holds a post-graduate diploma in Humanistic Psychology for Leadership, Facilitation and Coaching. In 2022 Bristol Live named Angie Bristol's 2nd most influential woman for her pioneering work in comedy and health. The Hague awarded her 'World Comedian of Emancipation 2022'. Stuart Goldsmith is an internationally award-winning comedian, corporate speaker and writer. Stuart is also the host of the internationally renowned podcast: The Comedian's Comedian. He has interviewed many of the comedy world's household names, including Jimmy Carr, Bo Burnham, Sarah Millican and James Acaster. He is the creator of the popular Resilience Presentation, a 45-minute business-focussed session which offers a fresh take on cultivating resilience. Stuart's stand-up career has seen him win several awards and he has taken seven solo stand-up shows to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. He has performed at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, the New Zealand International Comedy Festival and made multiple appearances at the prestigious, invitation-only Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal. In 2019, he performed stand-up on the TBS chat show Conan, in the US. Your host, Dr Natalie Lancer , is a Chartered Coaching Psychologist, and British Psychological Society (BPS) Registered Supervisor. She is the Chair of the BPS's Division of Coaching Psychology and an accredited member of the Association for Coaching. She is the host of this podcast series and invites you to email any comments to docp-tcppod@bps.org.uk https://www.bps.org.uk/member-networks/division-coaching-psychology © British Psychological Society 2024

October 1, 2024Episode 81 hr 20 min

08: Neurodiversity in Coaching

In this podcast episode, Dr. Natalie Lancer with Professor Almuth McDowall, Cara Langford Watts, Pippa Simou and Dr. Francoise Orlov, consider the multifaceted nature of neurodiversity coaching encompassing personal neurodiversity journeys, training, supervision and research. The speakers explore the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, particularly women with ADHD and/or autism, and stress the importance of creating inclusive coaching environments. They delve into the double empathy problem, ethical dilemmas, and practical strategies for support. We discuss: What is neurodivergence and how do neurodiversities show up in coaching? What value can coaching bring to neurodiverse individuals? How can coaches support creating inclusive environments for neurodiverse coaches? What are the challenges and positive developments in neurodiversity coaching? What are the limitations of traditional coaching models when considering neurodiversity? What is the 'whole sphere' of neurodiversity and how does neurodiversity intersect with other marginalised identities? How can we best understand autistic women's experiences in the workplace? What are the misconceptions faced by women and girls with ADHD? How can coaching strategies support attendance and workplace inclusivity? What specific strategies and techniques can coaches employ when working with neurodivergent coachees? What are the ethical considerations in supporting neurodivergent individuals? Coaches who work with neurodivergent people can be neurotypical or neurodiverse themselves and we discuss the importance of understanding the individual needs and how to co-determine what kind of coach and approach would be best. Coaches and their clients benefit from developments in research and training programmes for neurodiversity coaching as they become more equipped to grasp the complexities and nuances of neurodiversity coaching. Our guests today are: Almuth McDowall is Professor of Organisational Psychology at Birkbeck, University of London. With Dr Nancy Doyle, she co-directs the Centre for Neurodiversity Research at Work and co-authored Neurodiversity Coaching: A Psychological Approach to Supporting Neurodivergent Talent and Career Potential . Making people happy at work is at the core of Almuth's mission – she advocates for approaches which support everyone to thrive. Her award-winning research has been funded by research councils, professional associations and charities, and she is widely published in the academic and practitioner literature. Almuth is passionate about dissemination of research to practitioner audiences, is a sought-after speaker and consultant, and makes frequent appearances in the press, on radio and TV. Cara Langford Watts is a Coaching Psychologist and the Director of Neuro Directions, specialising in providing progressive coaching services tailored to neurodivergent individuals. Cara brings a down-to-earth blend of personal insight, drawing from her own lived experience of ADHD and dyslexia combined with a wealth of professional expertise in coaching neurodivergent clients. Cara is actively working to integrate coaching research and practice through a neurodiverse lens. Her recent Master's research was on autistic women's experiences of workplace coaching and ableist power dynamics. By challenging conventional coaching theories, research paradigms, and practices, Cara passionately advocates for inclusivity. Her mission is to challenge societal norms, paving the way for a more equitable and diverse coaching landscape. Pippa Simou is a coaching psychologist, specialising in supporting women and girls to live well with ADHD and other conditions that may also be present. With 20 years of experience in secondary education and diagnosed with ADHD at 44, Pippa joined a local charity, working to support parents and professionals who live or work with children who have ADHD and/or Autism. She started 'The ADD-vantage' in 2020, offering support services to women and girls with ADHD symptoms, and also mentors girls in local schools, trains professionals, coaches women with ADHD one-to-one and facilitates support groups. Awarded a Distinction for her MSc in Psychology, Pippa continues to be involved in research at the University of Hertfordshire. Dr Francoise Orlov is a Master Practitioner Coach, Mentor and Coaching Supervisor with 30 years of international experience. She is a member of the world-renowned 100 Coaches community of top coaches and leadership experts. Her expertise integrates theoretical knowledge, emotional intelligence, and practical experience to support her clients in steering complex, international projects through high stakes situations. Francoise previously held senior management and board level positions and was an academic in Strategy and Project Management. An advocate for the professionalisation of coaching, she has authored contributions to several coaching publications, encouraging an eclectic and systemic approach. Her current research focuses on neurodivergent professionals and their contributions to the coaching profession, building on her commitment to diversity. Your host, Dr Natalie Lancer , is a Chartered Coaching Psychologist, and British Psychological Society (BPS) Registered Supervisor. She is the Chair of the BPS's Division of Coaching Psychology and an accredited member of the Association for Coaching. She is the host of this podcast series and invites you to email any comments to docp-tcppod@bps.org.uk Your host, Dr Natalie Lancer , is a Chartered Coaching Psychologist, and British Psychological Society (BPS) Registered Supervisor. She is the Chair of the BPS's Division of Coaching Psychology and an accredited member of the Association for Coaching. She is the host of this podcast series and invites you to email any comments to docp-tcppod@bps.org.uk https://www.bps.org.uk/member-networks/division-coaching-psychology © British Psychological Society 2024

September 1, 2024Episode 71 hr 15 min

07: Trauma-informed Coaching

In this episode, Dr. Natalie Lancer and Julia Vaughan Smith, Kate Brassington, and Jenny Rogers, explore the nuances of trauma-informed coaching. The panel give thought to the complexities and responsibilities involved in trauma-informed coaching, discussing the internal dynamics of trauma, its influence on coaching practices, and the importance of sensitivity to clients' experiences. The conversation covers the distinctions between coaching and therapy, ethical considerations, and the skills necessary for trauma-informed coaching, such as presence, attunement, and reflective practice. The importance of safeguarding, establishing boundaries, and self-care for coaches is also addressed. We consider: What is trauma and how can we recognise it in our coaching practice? What are the reasons why clients seek trauma-informed coaching? What are the benefits for the client of working with a trauma-informed coach? Where is the overlap between coaching and therapy in addressing trauma-related issues? How can we address trauma in coaching? What are the core qualities and skills needed to coach in a trauma-informed way? How can we train to become a more trauma-informed coach? Do self-care and supervision look different for trauma-informed coaches? How should we contract appropriately for client safety? What are the risks, safe-guards and limits of trauma-informed coaching? In what ways can coaching contribute to trauma healing? Our experts shared their approaches to working with trauma in coaching, for example, understanding clients' backstories without explicitly using the term "trauma". Trauma can be subtly present in coaching sessions, even when clients may not explicitly seek help for trauma-related issues. Trauma-informed coaching helps clients process trauma in the present and integrate their experiences in safe ways through creating a trusting environment where they feel heard and understood. Our guests today are: Jenny Rogers is a leader in a new approach to coaching which combines insights from psychotherapy with the pragmatic emphasis on change, drawing on a career in coaching spanning three decades. She works with senior clients in the law, medicine, finance, healthcare, performing arts and media who typically face a major transition in their lives. Jenny won the Henley Business School Award for Outstanding Contribution to Coaching in 2019. She is the author of Are You Listening? and nine other books on coaching. Julia Vaughan Smith is an Accredited Master Executive Coach and Supervisor and was in private practice as a Psychotherapist, focusing on trauma processing and healing. Together with Jenny Rogers, she has co-facilitated Masterclasses and associated workshops on trauma and coaching. She is the author of a number of books including 'Coaching and Trauma', 'Therapist to Coach', and 'Daughters: How to Untangle Yourself from Your Mother', exploring the impact of developmental and ancestral trauma on this relationship and how to become untangled. Kate Brassington is a Coaching Psychologist (GMBPsS) and PCC ICF-certified Trauma Informed Coach who researches applied coaching strategies. She has published her research on resilience training for people in high-risk occupations. She hosts a podcast called 'Refreshing Leadership' which brings to life applied trauma-informed coaching for leaders in all walks of life. She works with a wide range of people from teens to 70+'s; with executives, retirees, solo-entrepreneurs, and more. She offers pro-bono coaching to military amputees through the charity BLESMA. Your host, Dr Natalie Lancer , is a Chartered Coaching Psychologist, and British Psychological Society (BPS) Registered Supervisor. She is the Chair of the BPS's Division of Coaching Psychology and an accredited member of the Association for Coaching. She is the host of this podcast series and invites you to email any comments to docp-tcppod@bps.org.uk https://www.bps.org.uk/member-networks/division-coaching-psychology © British Psychological Society 2024