Coaching Enneagram Type 9
Tips for Working with the Peacemaker
Coaching Enneagram Type 9 clients, also known as “The Peacemaker”, can be both deeply rewarding and unexpectedly challenging.
These calm, easygoing individuals often bring a warm and steady presence to the coaching space. Still, their tendency to avoid conflict and put others first can make it hard for them to fully step into their own priorities.
Whether you’re new to coaching Enneagram Type 9 clients or looking to refine your approach, this guide will give you three key insights, three common pitfalls to avoid, and three practical tools you can use right away to support “The Peacemaker” in claiming their voice and taking action.
3 Key Coaching Insights for Enneagram Type 9 Clients
1. Clarity Unlocks Energy
Enneagram Type 9 clients often lose energy when they’re unclear about what they want.
Helping them articulate their own priorities, not just those of others, can create a noticeable shift in motivation and engagement.
2. Gentle Challenge Works Better Than Force
While Nines can appear agreeable, pushing too hard too soon can cause them to retreat.
A balanced mix of encouragement and light challenge keeps them engaged without triggering their resistance.
3. Small Steps Build Big Momentum
Type 9 clients thrive when big goals are broken into manageable actions. Each step they complete builds confidence and makes it easier for them to take on more ambitious changes.
3 Common Coaching Pitfalls with Enneagram Type 9
1. Accepting “I Don’t Know” at Face Value
When a Nine says they’re unsure, it’s often a sign they haven’t been asked or allowed themselves to go deeper. Stopping there reinforces their habit of self-forgetting.
2. Over-Focusing on Harmony
If you let the coaching sessions stay too comfortable, you risk reinforcing their avoidance of tension. True growth often requires exploring what feels slightly uncomfortable.
3. Leaving Goals Vague
Type 9 clients can drift in sessions without real progress without specific, measurable outcomes. A lack of structure makes it easier for them to lose focus and disengage.
3 Practical Coaching Tools for Enneagram Type 9
1. The “One Thing” Question
Ask, “If you could focus on just one thing for yourself this week, what would it be?”
This encourages them to prioritize their own needs and desires.
2. Gentle Accountability Check-Ins
Agree on one small action step per session and check back the next time you meet. The consistent follow-up helps them build momentum without overwhelming pressure.
3. Conflict-Free Confrontation Practice
Role-play scenarios where they express a preference or disagree with someone in a safe, supportive space. This builds their comfort with asserting themselves.
Quick Recap of Coaching Enneagram Type 9 Clients
Best approach:
Support clarity, offer gentle challenges, and focus on small, consistent steps.Biggest challenges:
Avoidance of conflict, difficulty prioritizing themselves, and loss of focus without structure.Opener for emotional work:
Ask focused questions that draw out their own priorities and encourage them to express their voice.
Final Thoughts
Enneagram Type 9 clients bring steadiness, empathy, and perspective to the coaching relationship.
When you help them clarify what matters most to them, encourage them to take small but steady steps, and provide gentle accountability, you create a space where they can step into their own power without feeling pressured.
These tips are just a starting point. Each client’s journey is unique, and deeper layers such as subtype and instinctual patterns can further refine your coaching approach.
Want more ready-to-use tools for your Enneagram coaching sessions?
Download my free guide: 120 Enneagram Reflection Prompts to Use with Clients.
These prompts are designed to help you ask better questions, spark deeper conversations, and unlock new breakthroughs in your sessions.
