The Coaching Alliance

by Windy Dryden

Published 20 June 2017

Windy Dryden’s pluralistic approach to coaching informs this uniquely straightforward guide to the coaching alliance. Drawing on examples from Dryden’s own practice, the book explores the four specific domains of the alliance: bonds, views, objectives/goals, and tasks. Dryden explains how these domains are inter-related, and how all four have an impact on the collaborative, negotiated relationship between coach and coachee.

The Coaching Alliance is a clearly written, accessible guide, with one chapter dedicated to each of the four domains. It examines each domain at different stages in the coaching process and includes key points and questions for coaches to consider in sessions with clients. By taking an alliance perspective on coaching, the coach is encouraged to think clearly and constructively about building a working relationship with their coachee, clarifying views, setting goals and completing tasks. Including a wealth of practical information, this concise book will be essential for anyone working with clients in a coaching capacity.


In his clear and concise style, Windy Dryden outlines the steps and strategies that coaches using Rational Emotive Behavioural Coaching (REBC) should employ as a guide when working with coachees in development-focused REBC and in problem-focused REBC (addressing both practical and emotional problems).

A Practical Guide to Rational Emotive Behavioural Coaching shows how REB coaches can address the inevitable obstacles to coaching progress that are likely to occur in all types of REBC and outlines the most common steps for each type of coaching, including common strategies for the implementation of each step. The book also includes a unique survey, developed by the author, designed to help coachees in development-focused REBC assess and evaluate healthy principles of living.

The book will be an essential resource for coaches in practice and training, for professionals working in human resources and learning and development, and for executives in a coaching role.