Contact:

Kon Li, Career and Life Planning, 778.782.8588, kon_li@sfu.ca

Amy Robertson, SFU Continuing Studies, 778.782.8835, aer5@sfu.ca

Video: http://i.sfu.ca/XOcdZA

Responding to an increase in the global demand for coaching services, Simon Fraser University Continuing Studies has launched a unique coaching program for professionals.

Developed by Kon Li, SFU’s Certificate in Professional Coaching is the only program in the Lower Mainland aligned with the International Coaching Federation (ICF), and is designed to assist individuals and organizations reach their maximum level of effectiveness.

The ICF found in its 2012 Global Coaching Study that the demand for coaching services has increased worldwide, while the organization has seen its membership increase dramatically from 11,000 members in 2006, to over 21,000 members in April of 2012.

SFU's program positions graduates to pursue ICF coaching certification upon completion of the program.

“Coaching is a profession that responds to the continuous changes in people’s lives,” says Li, SFU Continuing Studies Career and Life Planning program director. “There is a push in the business world to have coaching in an organizational setting in order to deal with change and improve effectiveness and performance.”

The part-time, seven-month program combines practical coaching theory, one-on-one mentoring from industry professionals, observation, and coaching practice with real teams, individuals and organizations.

“Older methods of performance enhancement focused on past problems, while professional coaching is about maximizing strengths. The psychology is very positive, and very here-and-now.”

Course topics include individual and team coaching, organizational systems coaching, narrative coaching, working with feedback, resistance to change, and leadership.

Classes begin at SFU’s Vancouver campus on Oct 26. An information session will be held at the campus on Sept. 12 at 5:30 p.m.

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Simon Fraser University: Engaging Students. Engaging Research. Engaging Communities.