Coaching vs. Therapy
Depending on our circumstances, or what we are trying to accomplish, we all need support at different times in our lives. We may need help making a difficult decision, navigating a relationship, processing the loss of a loved one or getting through a divorce, making time for ourselves or combatting obstacles that are holding us back from reaching our goals.
At some stages in our lives we are struggling. Sometimes we are looking to better ourselves. Other times we are merely surviving.
Whether you are looking to take care of your mental health, or are interested in strengthening your mental fitness, you may benefit from therapy or life coaching or both.
Here’s how to know which one is right for you:
Therapy - Therapists are trained mental health professionals who treat and diagnose mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, etc. They devise health care plans to help heal past trauma, navigate emotions, work through interpersonal relationships and more. Consider therapy if you are struggling with a mental illness or are experiencing mental health symptoms that are interfering with your daily life.
Coaching - Coaches are certified professionals that focus on personal growth, empowerment and motivation. They set you up with tools to achieve goals and dreams and to break free if you feel stuck. Consider coaching if you want to learn how to manage your thoughts and feelings, set boundaries, let go of limiting beliefs and take your personal growth journey to the next level.
Both therapists and coaches have different focuses and areas of expertise. There are therapists that focus on talk therapy, EMDR, marriage and family therapy, addiction and eating disorders and more. There are coaches that focus on life, career, fitness, weight loss, parenting and more.
In my coaching practice, I focus on self-kindness. I will coach you on any topic, taking a gentle approach to help you eliminate the drama in your life while teaching you how to love yourself.
Coaching is not a substitute for therapy, however, this does not mean that if you have experienced past trauma or have been diagnosed with a mental illness you can’t work with a life coach. I personally work with both.
The differences between therapy and coaching are not as black and white as you may think. Sometimes the paths may cross. But in the end, both lead to the same destination - a better you.
I would love to support you in any area of your life you may be struggling with. Schedule a session with me HERE. If you are not sure if coaching is right for you, or would like to learn more about my coaching style, schedule a FREE consultation today. I can’t wait to work with you.
Suzanne