Abstract:
The doctoral phase is an intellectually demanding and emotionally complex period marked by academic uncertainty, financial instability, and career ambiguity. Doctoral researchers face challenges such as hierarchical supervision dynamics, high stress levels, and increased risk of psychological strain, with up to a third abandoning their Ph.D. Coaching has emerged as a vital support tool, complementing academic supervision by fostering self-reflection, goal-setting, and problem-solving. Especially in-house coaching leverages institutional knowledge, enhances accessibility, and fosters cultural alignment, all while ensuring independence and confidentiality. This article explores coaching as a systematic intervention, outlining its role across different stages of the Ph.D. journey — from decision-making and orientation to overcoming crises and project management. Case studies highlight its efficacy in addressing issues like procrastination, enabling doctoral researchers to regain control and achieve sustainable success.
Über die Autor*innen:
- Silke Hell,
Psychologin, systemische Coach und Therapeutin mit langjähriger Erfahrung als Coach und Trainerin für Wissenschaftler*innen in frühen Karrierephasen sowie Fach- und Führungskräfte, Leitung der Geschäftsstelle der universitätsüberspannenden Graduierteneinrichtung „Konstanz Research School“, Universität Konstanz, akademische Personalentwicklerin, Dozentin, Moderatorin, Teamentwicklerin und Beraterin an Hochschulen im In- und Ausland
