Head Space: A Life Coach Compares the Differences Between Therapy and Coaching

Head Space: A Life Coach Compares the Differences Between Therapy and Coaching
Life Coaching and Therapy are not interchangeable, though many think it is.
They are separate professions with differing levels of knowledge and certifications. Therapy and coaching are both great options for improving your mental wellbeing, but they offer different benefits and cater to different needs.

As a Life Coach, the first question I get asked a lot is: "Are you a therapist?" The answer is a resounding "no". The second question is: "What is the difference between a coach and a therapist?" The answer is not so simple. There are a fair few articles and opinions about what the differences are, but most of them are from the therapist's viewpoint. I will answer these and other questions from the perspective of a Life Coach.

Here’s a look at the key differences between life coaching and therapy:

Purpose: The main purpose of therapy is to help you address and deal with past traumas or emotional issues that are impacting the client’s current life. This can be a long process. Life coaching, on the other hand, focuses on helping you achieve your goals and aspirations. Life Coaching is forward-looking. Life Coaching is intended to stop the client from living in the past, acknowledge it, be grateful for it, and treat it like the building block it is for who the client is now.

Credentials: Therapists are typically licensed professionals who have undergone extensive training in psychology or counseling. They are part of an academic cycle and generally are licensed by a professional board or state. Life coaches may have any number of qualifications, depending on their field of expertise. Life Coaches may also have no credentials. The sad truth is anyone can call themselves a Life Coach. Some are naturally good and have experience in previous careers. Some are charlatans who will take your money and not deliver. In either case of the Therapist or Life Coach, choose wisely.

Structure: The structure of Therapists and Life Coaches are similar. Therapy sessions are typically weekly and last around an hour. Coaching sessions can be weekly, monthly, or as needed, and typically last around 45 minutes. Therapists generally have an office, while Life Coaches will meet at a public place or on zoom. Life Coaches are generally available between sessions for clients who need a short text message.

Duration: Here's the thing if a client is looking for a long-term look into the deep dark crevices of the mind, therapy is the way to go. If you are looking for behavior modification or really getting unstuck to achieve goals, big or small, then Life Caching is the best route. Therapy can last for years if needed. Coaching is a more short-term solution, designed to help you achieve your specific goals.

Fit: Therapy and Life Coaching generally walk along parallel paths. Some clients have issues that Life Coaches are not trained to work with, nor should they try. Therapy is best suited for those who are dealing with emotional or psychological issues. Coaching is ideal for anyone who wants to achieve a specific goal, such as losing weight, improving their work/life balance, or becoming more successful. In either case, the client works closely with the professional and typically divulges information that should be kept confidential. It is the responsibility of the client to interview and choose the right professional for the job.

One last question, should I use a therapist and a Life Coach together? The answer is up to you. If the client understands that each profession is working from opposite directions with past, present, and future, then it is something to consider. Some therapists have a difficult time working with Life Coaches and vice versa because it may appear they are working against each other at the expense of the client. It is a decision a client should make for themselves and be very clear with each professional about the relationship expectation.

If you’re not sure which option is right for you, hop on my calendar to discuss: http://meetwithleeann.me

This video is part of a playlist titled Why Life Coaches Do What They Do.

If you’d love a customized strategy based on my 20 years of experience working with people just like you, hop on my calendar at http://meetwithleeann.me

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