Coaching vs Counseling

What’s the actual difference between coaching and counseling (psychotherapy)?  I asked this very question myself, after I had earned my Masters in Mental Health Counseling and had been working in the field as a Therapist. What is this “coaching” stuff… what’s the difference?

Truth is, there’s a lot of overlap (which is awesome for me)!  However, there are some key differences in these two services. Let’s first get a quick glimpse at the resemblance between counseling and coaching.

Similarities between Coaching and Counseling (Therapy):

Now let’s check out some of the differences.

Differences Between Coaching & Counseling (Therapy):

This is a sweeping generalization, and every therapist and coach works differently. There are many schools of thought and therapeutic approaches, and some more similar to coaching than others.

Counseling work is focused on uncovering problems and processing emotions.  Diagnosis and treatment are very important parts of counseling.  I prefer operating from a Person-Centered approach (Carl Rogers is the man!)- which allows my clients to openly explore and lead the sessions.  However, depending on the presenting problems and the type of client, I often take a more direct approach with the use of Cognitive Behavioral interventions, as well as pulling from DBT, ACT and Solution-Focused therapy.   

I work with many different individuals who may present with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, familial turmoil, breakups, grieving, cross-cultural integration, addiction etc.  Sessions are highly individualized, and we meet regularly at a frequency based on their needs in this phase of life.

In Coaching, someone is motivated to make change in their life. Emotional distress is certainly a driving factor, but we are usually focused on creating habit change and restructuring lifestyle behaviors.  I enjoy the ability of being on a peer-to-peer level in coaching, which gives the power back to the Client (after all- it is their life in their hands)!   We focus on habits, identity and belief shifting and examples of the focal desired outcomes include things like increased energy, improved self-confidence, breaking through career or relationship plateaus, redefining personal boundaries, weight loss, lifestyle shifting, ritualizing self-care routines, clarifying self-purpose, etc.  Each session is structured with specific exercises and new information, and personally tailored to each client.  Sessions are built into a structured program (ex: 12 weeks). 

As a Therapist and Coach, I am grateful to be able to offer either structure of service to my clients and meet them where they are at currently. I also have the joy of marrying the two services organically, fostering momentum towards positive change while also making space to pause, be and heal.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and certified Life & Health Coach. I work with smart individuals who currently are feeling stuck in their habits, health, careers or relationships.  I help them find clarity and realignment- transforming from stressed and stuck to engaged and thriving! 

Ready to explore if working together is a good fit for you? Click here and book a complimentary Clarity Call with me!