WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LIFE COACHING AND THERAPY OR COUNSELING?
While Life Coaching and therapy/counseling are similar, there are several distinct differences:
Life Coaching focuses on the future, whereas therapy focuses on the past.
Life Coaches do not diagnose or treat mental illness.
Life Coaching will capitalize on the positive attributes individuals already possess, help them discover new skills or passions, and promote positive attitudes and mindsets to overcome self-limiting beliefs. Therapy will dissect an individual's personality.
Life Coaching is not a reimbursable expense by insurance.
Life Coaching is a partnership between a coach and an individual or a couple, working together to envision a new path and set goals to work toward new possibilities.
The role of a Life Coach is to promote self-awareness and uncover answers that have eluded clients by asking thought-provoking questions.
Both Life Coaches and therapists can assist individuals/couples who want to make changes in their lives. However, many people are choosing a Life Coach over a therapist because of the stigma attached to seeking therapy/counseling.
If you have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, struggling with substance abuse/addiction, or suffering from domestic abuse, it is recommended you see a trained, licensed therapist to address your specific issue.
With that being said, it is possible to work with a Life Coach and a therapist in conjunction with each other. It is just important to get the appropriate help you need or want from the right source.