What is the potential risk if a coach fails to establish rapport with their client?

Building rapport is foundational in the coaching relationship, as it creates a safe space for clients to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. If a coach fails to establish this rapport, the client may feel judged. This sense of being judged can lead to feelings of vulnerability or inadequacy, making the client less likely to open up. When clients perceive that they are judged, they may withdraw emotionally or disengage from the coaching process altogether. This disengagement can hinder effective communication, trust-building, and overall progress toward their health and wellness goals.

While the other choices touch on potential challenges within the coaching relationship, they do not directly reflect the immediate impact of a lack of rapport as the risk of feeling judged does.