converge · Problem Solving, Coaching, Leadership Development · 60–75 min · 4-5 people · medium energy
Case Clinic
The Case Clinic is a peer coaching method that helps a case giver address a pressing leadership challenge by tapping into the collective wisdom of their peers. It fosters trust and generates innovative solutions through deep listening and generative dialogue.
When to use Case Clinic
Use this method when a leader faces a complex challenge and needs fresh perspectives from trusted colleagues. It's particularly effective when the leader is open to self-reflection and learning.
What it solves
The leader feels stuck or isolated in their problem-solving, or when the team needs to build trust and psychological safety.
How to run Case Clinic, step by step
- Role Definition (2 mins). Facilitator explains the roles: Case Giver (presents the challenge), Coaches (listen deeply, offer reflections), Timekeeper (tracks time).
- Case Giver's Intention Statement (10-15 mins). The Case Giver shares their challenge, guided by these questions: Current situation, Stakeholders' perspectives, Intended future, Learning threshold, and specific areas where they need help. Coaches ask clarifying questions.
- Stillness (2 mins). Coaches take a moment of silence to reflect on the case, paying attention to images, emotions, and potential gestures that arise.
- Mirroring (10 mins). Each coach shares their reflections from the stillness exercise. The Case Giver listens without interruption, then responds to the coaches' feedback.
- Generative Dialogue (20 mins). Facilitate a discussion where coaches and the Case Giver explore new perspectives and potential solutions, building on each other's ideas. Emphasize staying in service of the Case Giver's needs.
- Closing Remarks (8 mins). Coaches share a final reflection. The Case Giver shares how they now see their situation and potential way forward. Everyone expresses appreciation.
- Individual Journaling (2 mins). Participants write down what they learned from the process.
Materials needed
- Timer
- Journal or notebook for each participant
- Whiteboard or flip chart (optional)
Facilitator tips
- Emphasize the importance of deep listening and non-judgmental feedback.
- Remind coaches to focus on offering reflections rather than giving advice.
- Keep a close eye on the time to ensure each step is completed within the allotted timeframe.
Common pitfalls
- Coaches offering advice instead of reflections. Remind them of their role.
- Case Giver becoming defensive or dismissive of feedback. Encourage them to stay open and curious.
- Dialogue becoming unfocused or unproductive. Gently guide the conversation back to the Case Giver's needs.
Variations
- Shorten the time for each step to fit within a shorter timeframe.
- Use a virtual whiteboard for collaborative note-taking during the generative dialogue.
- Incorporate mindfulness exercises before the stillness step to enhance focus and presence.
Running it online or hybrid
Use breakout rooms for mirroring and generative dialogue. A shared digital document can replace journaling.
What it produces
A renewed understanding of the situation, potential solutions, and actionable next steps for the case giver.
Origin
Reproduced under CC License and with credit to the Presencing Institute — source
Build a session around Case Clinic
METODIC places Case Clinic inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.