Coach the Person, Not the Problem, Second Edition

For coaches who want to transform lives, this updated bestselling guide reveals how reflective inquiry—not just asking questions—creates breakthrough moments that AI can never replicate.

In this powerful second edition, ICF global past president Marcia Reynolds shows why reflecting clients’ thoughts creates deeper transformation than questioning alone. With AI coaching tools emerging, Reynolds demonstrates how human connection remains irreplaceable for genuine breakthroughs.

“Coaches rely far too much on asking open-ended questions,” says Reynolds. When clients hear their thoughts spoken by someone else, they critically examine their thinking. Drawing from brain science and decades of coaching experience, Reynolds provides specific techniques for transformational conversations.

This expanded edition is 20 percent new content including the following:

Fresh research on identity formationNew coaching examplesGuidance on differentiating human coaching from AIReynolds reorganizes her acclaimed “three mental habits” and “five essential practices,” showing how to create a space where clients feel safe to explore and achieve lasting change. And a new case study demonstrates coaching’s power for both personal development and organizational culture shift.