Which question most likely helps a client generate insight during a coaching session?

ICF Competency 7 ("Evokes Awareness") emphasizes "asking powerful questions that help the client gain insight, explore perspectives, and discover new possibilities." Effective questions are open-ended, future-focused, and provoke deep reflection, aligning with the ICF’s client-centered approach (ICF Code of Ethics, Section 1). Let’s evaluate:

A. Are there risks with this plan that you are not considering?: This is specific and risk-focused, prompting evaluation rather than broad insight. It’s useful but less generative than exploring life impact.

B. How would your life change if you made that choice?: This open-ended, future-oriented question invites the client to explore consequences and personal meaning, directly aligning with Competency 7’s aim to evoke awareness and insight.

C. Do you want to stay with the organization after investing so much?: This closed question limits exploration to a yes/no response and focuses on past investment rather than future potential, reducing insight generation.

D. Have you considered checking with your boss before you act on this?: This is directive and practical (ICF Code of Ethics, Section 2.3), steering the client toward an action rather than fostering self-discovery.

Option B most effectively generates insight, per ICF’s emphasis on powerful, reflective questioning.