A systematic review of inter-sessional activities in coaching practice: what can we learn from counselling and therapy?

Purpose Although coaching is widely adopted in organisational and human resource development contexts, inter-sessional activities (IA) or “homework” activities carried out between sessions remain under examined. This study aims to investigate how IA is applied in workplace coaching and assesses its effectiveness in enhancing programme outcomes. Design/methodology/approach A systematic review was conducted across coaching and related disciplines, following the PRISMA guidelines to ensure transparency and methodological rigour. The search identified 7 empirical studies in workplace coaching and 43 in therapy and counselling that met the inclusion criteria. Findings Five themes emerged: inconsistent terminology and definitions of IA, (evidence of positive effects on behavioural and attitudinal outcomes, wide variation in the types of activities assigned, mixed perceptions of IA among practitioners and clients and factors influencing clients’ adherence and completion. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this review is the first to synthesise empirical evidence on IA within coaching, revealing a substantial research gap despite practitioners’ routine use of these activities. By mapping existing findings and identifying conceptual ambiguities, the study establishes a clear agenda for future research and offers practical guidance on embedding IA within a strong coach–client working alliance to maximise coaching effectiveness.