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Coaching vs. Counseling

Updated: Nov 24, 2024

Is coaching or counselling right for me? YES, particularly when integrated. Confused? Let me explain.

 

Coaching focuses on your present moment & how to move forward into the future with goals & aspirations, while counselling visits the past & works through how to cope moving forward.  When thinking of a life coach we tend to think of therapy & counselling, or that it is about the coach’s vision of a perfect life.  Neither is the case, rather coaches help you establish the life YOU envision, together you co-create a path to help you succeed in achieving the vision. Life Coaches are not licensed therapists which means they are not able to treat or diagnose mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, etc. 


**Alt Text**: "An infographic titled 'Coaching & Counseling Similarities' with two sections. The 'Coaching' section lists attributes like 'Future focused', 'Co-creators', 'Provides clarity & accountability', and mentions qualifications vary and cannot diagnose mental health conditions. The 'Counseling' section highlights 'Past Focused', ability to provide clinical diagnosis, and is education based on a medical model. Shared benefits between both include improving overall wellbeing, promoting growth, being non-judgmental, supportive, confidential, and addressing complex issues. The background is green with white text, and the Instagram handle @connolly_wellness is at the bottom."

Therapy is an asset to many individuals who need support with their mental health at a clinical level.  Coaching & counselling can work well together by working with a life coach who has the necessary skills to help you understand how your past experiences influence your life currently & into the future.  Understanding how your past plays a role in your every day fosters a better understanding of how to navigate new challenges & allows the ability to create a realistic plan to move into the future you envision for yourself.

 

Traditionally, these two streams of support do not coexist. However, the landscape is changing, with research showing coaching is a great alternative for those who do not require clinical-level care (New Research Finds Coaching to Be on Par with Therapy).  Since becoming popular in the 1980’s in America, the development within the coaching field has exploded by offering clients the option to find someone within a specific niche and their approach to working with clients making no two coaches equal. 

 

A graphic illustrating various coaching niches and approaches. Niches include life, health, finance, relationship, mindset, career, leadership, spiritual, and family coaching. Approaches feature somatic, CBT, goal-setting, transformational, positive psychology, NLP, mindfulness-based, behavioral, and strengths-based coaching. The background is a mustard yellow with white text, and it includes a decorative swirl design. The bottom of the image features the Instagram handle @connolly_wellness."

When looking for a coach, take your time, and find a coach that aligns with you & feels right.  There are many amazing coaches out there, so choose one that you feel comfortable being vulnerable with & that aligns with your values.

 

As a holistic wellness coach, I take the approach of exploring all facets of your life to determine what areas should be your primary focus first, including your emotional & physical well-being, environmental aspects, career & personal development, spiritual connection, financial health & social community.  Through your journey you will deep dive into your value & belief system which encompasses how your past affects your day to day, helping you create your goals for the future you envision.

 

Schedule a Discovery Call today to explore if we should work together.

 
 
 

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