Special Group in Coaching Psychology

The term 'coaching' has become one of the popular names now used for the application of psychologically focussed techniques for both life and business improvement. The SGCP has now been established to provide psychologists who are members of the British Psychological Society with an easy and effective means of sharing research as well as practical experiences that relate to the psychology of coaching.

A key driver in creating the SGCP was that Coaching Psychologists are drawn from a diverse range of BPS Divisions including, but not restricted to Occupational, Counselling and Sports Psychology. This means that for psychologists interested in this area to share research and best practice it makes sense to do so within a multi-disciplinary forum that draws on the memberships of all the BPS divisions.

We are also attracting a growing number of non-psychologist coaches who are interested in the appropriate application of psychological theory and methods to coaching practice. Coaches who are not psychologists are welcome to join the SGCP provided they become affiliate members of the BPS. An affiliate member of the BPS does not need to have any formal psychological training, but must demonstrate a genuine interest in the theory and practice of psychology. Become an affiliate of the BPS

With the increasing popularity of psychologically grounded techniques for business and personal improvement, professional standards and ethics for all providers of coaching services and especially those with a psychological focus are becoming more important. Members of the SGCP are bound by the BPS Code of Conduct, Ethical Principles and Guidelines .

The SGCP is committed to demystifying the services offered by Psychologists within the Coaching marketplace. We aim to provide easier access to psychological resources to assist HR Directors, Non-psychologist coaches as well as individual purchasers of coaching services to both find and use psychological services more effectively. Contact

The Future

Would you like to get involved with the work of the SGCP? Further information on how to get involved.

If you are a BPS member and would like to join the Special Group in Coaching Psychology please go to the join page.