Table 3 Domain 1: coaching structure competencies, frequency and importance validation ratings (N = 78; Domain weight = 36.3%)

1.1

Before First Session

IMP

FREQ

WT

 1.1.1

Clearly identify initial theme/focus for the offered group and communicate that appropriately in marketing materials

3.65

4.41

0.49

 1.1.2

Pre-screen/interview interested group participants individually to:

 • Explore the opportunities and responsibilities

 • Confirm commitment of joining a group

 • Listen for common requests and themes

 • Answer any individual questions

 • Note group fit (or not) and identify any need for another type of support

 • Discuss and administer any assessment tools used

3.37

3.95

0.41

 1.1.3

Identify any accommodations needed

3.21

3.77

0.38

 1.1.4

Establish all aspects of the Coaching Agreement and send to group members

3.41

4.06

0.43

 1.1.5

Create a customized structure for sessions that aligns with group needs

3.56

4.38

0.48

 1.1.6

Meet different participant preferences for technology, interactive activities, content sharing, etc

3.05

3.92

0.38

 1.1.7

Balance structured activities with space for group processing

3.60

4.51

0.49

 1.1.8

Confirm size and make-up of the group to optimize participant experience, for both individual sharing and group connection (recommendation 6–8 optimal, 12 max.)

3.46

4.32

0.46

 1.1.9

Manage the room and setup (virtual or in-person) to create an optimal learning environment

3.58

4.47

0.49

 1.1.10

If meeting virtually, test the technology, ensure the facilitator(s) have proper equipment and support, and provide participants with instructions for using the technology

3.60

4.28

0.48

 1.1.11

Review completed assessments and other data sources

3.42

4.21

0.44

1.2

First Session

 1.2.1

Set the climate/stage by establishing and maintaining a safe and inclusive group container

3.92

4.63

0.54

 1.2.2

Ask for identification preferences such as name, pronoun, etc

3.29

3.77

0.39

 1.2.3

Review basic group coaching process

3.44

4.19

0.46

 1.2.4

Establish, demonstrate, and maintain agreed upon group guidelines for safety and productivity

3.74

4.42

0.50

 1.2.5

Create supportive physical or virtual space

3.65

4.53

0.50

 1.2.6

Encourage each participant to take ownership of the process

3.71

4.41

0.49

 1.2.7

Discuss communication preferences between sessions

2.95

3.68

0.34

 1.2.8

Invite the voluntary participant sharing of contact information between members

2.62

3.24

0.28

1.3

Structure in All Sessions

 1.3.1

Review larger intention for this group, and (Session 2 and forward) consider themes or needs that arose from the previous session, to set an initial plan for this session

3.45

4.29

0.46

 1.3.2

Confirm logistics (meeting location, conference call arrangements, etc.) ensuring all group members are aware and able to access

3.71

4.47

0.51

 1.3.3

Provide a flexible agenda or outline in order to best manage time, flow, and focus of session

3.41

4.38

0.46

 1.3.4

Invite participants to check-in on state of being, prior session action steps, and needs for the session

3.58

4.40

0.48

 1.3.5

Create opportunities for participant interactions with clearly established logistics, guidelines, instructions, and boundaries

3.59

4.45

0.48

 1.3.6

End each session with an appropriate closing and check-out

3.68

4.60

0.51

1.4

Final Session

 1.4.1

Create a closing outline that includes:

 • Inviting the clients to reflect on, assess, and to articulate progress made, challenges experienced, lessons learned, and growth attained

 • Finalizing maintenance plans and sustainable pathways forward

 • Facilitating members in identifying and accessing social supports, services, and other resources

3.88

4.64

0.54

 1.4.2

Invite the voluntary participant sharing of contact information between members as the group formally terminates

2.90

3.60

0.34

 1.4.3

Formally acknowledge, facilitate celebration of their accomplishments, and close the ‘container’ of the group

3.74

4.60

0.52

 1.4.4

When applicable, collect feedback about participant’s group experience

3.65

4.46

0.49