From support through action research to the emergence of the project

As Maela Paul points out, 'Accompanying is joining someone to go where he or she is going at the same time'. I would add to this definition the notion of rhythm, which implies adapting and readjusting to the expectations and objectives of the person being accompanied. Thus the accompaniment would be the meeting which would link two peers, one more experienced accompanying the other on the way to the realization of his project, in a relationship of equality. This relationship based on mutual trust aims to fill a gap felt by a person at a given time in his or her life. Overall, it aims to restore the individual’s autonomy. In the last few years, accompaniment has become increasingly important in all areas of life. In addition to the traditional sectors, we are now witnessing the extension of its use in public intervention and in private companies. This situation has the consequence of making its contours and purposes even more opaque. As a result, many practices claiming to be coaching have proliferated in all professional fields.