Coaching versus Counseling
It’s not uncommon to be confused by the difference between counseling and coaching. Both are evidence based fields which facilitate change to improve people’s lives. Many counselors are also coaches and vice versa. Counselors can use coaching approaches in their practice, but coaches may not use therapy as a tool in their practice. As both a social worker and a coach, I have to maintain boundaries between the two fields. If you’re wondering if counseling or coaching is right for you, as either a client or a professional, here are the differences and similarities.
Coaching:
Focuses on the future
Task focused and action oriented
Not legally regulated; No license required to coach
Client takes action toward realization of vision, goals, or desires
Coach provides client with structure, support, and feedback
Involves a partnership with a client that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential
Looser boundaries
Can meet in public or video chat; no privacy laws
Centered on finding solutions
Facilitation of a client’s own growth process
Counseling:
Focuses on the past
Feeling oriented
Legally regulated; Must be licensed to practice
Client has an identifiable issue that interferes with client’s level of function
Counselor may use cognitive, behavioral, and/or other theoretical modalities
May involve medication and coordination of care
Stricter boundaries
Must meet in professional and confidential setting; privacy
Centered on analyzing problems
Addresses underlying cause of behavior
Similarities:
Confidentiality; therapists and coaches both have an ethical standard to maintain confidentiality of their clients.
Fee structure can be similar, pay per session, although coaching may not be covered by insurance, therapy often is
Number of sessions; either can be short-term or long-term
One on one relationship
Desire for change and client self-determination
Both counseling and coaching can be extremely beneficial and you may experience one or both at some point in your life. Generally speaking, coaching is great for individuals who are functioning at a high level, but need or want a little extra push to help them reach their goals. Coaching is not recommended for individuals who are experiencing difficulty in functioning day to day. It is best to first address any mental health issues with a therapist before hiring a coach.
Finding a coach or counselor:
If you are interested in hiring a coach, I suggest you start here: https://coachfederation.org/find-a-coach to find a qualified, certified coach. You can also Google search “coaches near me.” However, you should be be aware that many people call themselves “coaches” without having any formal training or certification. You should consider how important it is to you for your coach to be certified. You will also need to consider what kind of coaching you’re looking for such as Executive Coaching, Health Coaching, or Life Coaching.
If you’re interested in locating a counselor, the best place to start is your health insurance website to find someone in your network. If your employer, or your parent’s or spouse’s employer, provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), then you can get up to three therapy sessions for free. Contact the EAP for a list of qualified therapists in your area.
If you’re not sure where to start, contact me for a free consultation. As a trained social worker and certified coach, I’m happy to help guide you to the right path.
