The impact of a mindfulness practice on the coach's experience of countertransference: A thematic analysis.

This study investigates how mindfulness practice influences coaches' experiences of countertransference (CT)—the coach's psychological responses to clients—within coaching interactions. Through thematic analysis of interviews with nine experienced coaches familiar with mindfulness and CT, three key themes emerged: somatic significance (body awareness as an indicator of CT), coaching with full awareness (present moment, metacognitive, and self-awareness), and self-regulation strategies (emotional detachment and a curious, non-judgmental stance). Findings suggest that mindfulness enhances coaches' ability to recognize and manage CT by fostering embodied awareness, focused presence, and emotional regulation, thereby supporting a stronger coaching alliance. The study highlights mindfulness as a valuable tool for coaches' personal and professional development while noting limitations related to cultural perspectives and variability in mindfulness practices.