The Creative Coach: Exploring the Synergies Between Creative Problem Solving: Thinking Skills Model and Non-Directive Coaching

This project looks at the similarities and differences between the most recent version of Creative Problem Solving called Creative Problem Solving: Thinking Skills Model and the approach to coaching known as Non-Directive Coaching. Creativity practitioners are challenged to find opportunities of engaging in formal full-blown, group-based Creative Problem Solving sessions. There is a need to find other, less formal ways of helping people use their creativity. The Thinking Skills Model’s design allows it to mesh with the creative process in other content areas by making the basic concepts of Creative Problem Solving transferable to those other contexts. Non-Directive Coaching is one such example. Both Creative Problem Solving and Non-Directive Coaching are reviewed for the reader. The similarities, differences, and synergies between the two are explored. These synergies are augmented by observations from the author’s many years as a consultant and business coach. Ideas for further research are presented