1st Edition

Coaching in the Grey Space Exploring Boundaries, Ethics and Complexity when Coaching and Therapy Intersect

By Lauretta Greer Copyright 2026
180 Pages 9 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

180 Pages 9 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

180 Pages 9 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

Coaching in the Grey Space is set to enhance the practice of coaching psychology, by defining the previously unidentified grey space – where boundaries between the coaching and therapeutic terrain intersect. This book navigates how we as coaches can negotiate this complex terrain, to improve the management of boundaries and ethics for coaches within the practice and safeguard clients. It also... Read more

Introduction  1. Am I the pioneering grey space client?  2. Mapping the terrain of the grey space  3. How and when we may encounter the grey space  4. Navigating the grey space Part I: The Grey space compass: the process of how coaches explor and plot this territory  5. Navigating the grey space Part II: Surveying the grey space  6. Navigating the grey space Part III: Further Surveying, and charting what emerges  7. Viewing beyond trauma  8. Regular navigational updates and conclusion

Biography

Dr Lauretta Greer is a trauma-informed Coaching Psychologist specialising in personal development, transitions and stress management, with a particular interest in stress management and prevention. She holds a BSc in Counselling and Psychology, an MSc in Occupational Psychology and a DProf in Coaching and is a qualified bereavement counsellor and an accredited psychometric and personality practitioner. Her mission is to support people through enhancing and developing their skills, so that they can improve their mental and physical health and take charge of their lives for the better.

‘This research-based book fills a gap by exploring the ambiguous space between coaching and therapy in a thoughtful but well applied way. It is critical but accessible and is a must read for those interested in examining the boundaries and overlaps between the two professions.’

Paul StokesPhD, Associate Professor of Coaching and Mentoring, Sheffield Hallam University, UK

'Coaching in the Grey Space aims to enhance the work of helping professionals across different settings, from the beginner to the experienced practitioner. This book offers a timely contribution for those encountering and navigating the Grey Space in their coaching practice, to explore their ways of working and the boundaries of where coaching and therapy intersect. This evidence-based perspective highlights the preparatory and preventative aspects of the Grey Space. A key resource for anyone interested in enhancing their understanding of this complex landscape.' 

Siobhain O’Riordan, PhD, Chartered Coaching Psychologist

'As we learn more about the nature of "everyday trauma" we can see how it contributes to stress overload, dysfunctional behaviours, anxiety and depression  - all widespread today. To make a clear separation between therapy and coaching is no longer feasible, so coaches need to be well supported to work in this "grey area". This important book will do just that – it is a welcome contribution to the coaching profession.'

Hetty Einzig, Founder-Director, Transpersonal Leadership Coaching, AC Publications Strategy Director, and author of The Future of Coaching: Vision, Leadership and Responsibility in a Transforming World