Leadership Coaching and the Rescuer Syndrome: How to Manage Both Sides of the Couch

Abstract

In this article I explore the problem of excessive helping behavior — The Rescuer Syndrome — with particular reference to executive coaching. I also discuss co-dependency between coach and client and question whether these ‘rescuers,’ in their need to help, really help their clients. Do the rescuers themselves need to be rescued? I examine the origins of compulsive helping behavior, including rescuers’ early family dynamics. The indicators of this dysfunctional behavior pattern will be explored, including strategies for dealing with the Rescuer Syndrome. I end with a description of the constructive rescuer, explaining how a better understanding of this specific behavior pattern can contribute to greater awareness of the intensity of the rescuer within. The expectation is that this kind of knowledge will increase coaching effectiveness.

Keywords: Rescuer Syndrome, Co-dependency, Coach-coachee Relationships, Disease to Please, Addiction, Saying "No", Rescuer Burnout, Constructive Rescuer, Transference-countertransference Reactions