Therapy vs. Coaching

I’m often asked what the difference is between Therapy and Coaching. While there are some similarities the differences may be the key to deciding what type of support you’re in need of at this time. The main distinction is that Coaching is about setting and achieving goals. Whereas in therapy, generally one explores the past and is focused on unpacking what happened and healing from it.

Here is where the confusion comes in…coaching can also be healing on many levels. Especially, when you work with me. You see, this work is designed to bring forward unresolved mental and emotional material that has been in the way of you creating what you’d like to experience. Anytime we move forward on the goal line in life, our inner blocks will surface. This is actually REALLY GOOD NEWS! We are giving ourselves the opportunity to work through these blocks, with the support of a skilled Coach. This is actually what we want, so we can deal with it, heal it and seal it! And by seal it, I mean mark it complete – as it will no longer be in your way.

In Coaching we focus on:

• Creating a crystal clear vision for your future
• Taking action in support of your vision
• Identifying inner blocks (limiting beliefs and unresolved issues)
• Learning Life Mastery Tools to work through inner blocks
• Using and integrating these tools with support
• Reclaiming your Authentic Self
• Nurturing your Inner Child
• Managing your energy
• Creating a customized self-care practice
• Achieving your goals and dreams

There is SO much value in Therapy. However, I am a big fan of Coaching because I believe true empowerment comes from taking full responsibility for our lives. In Coaching, we identify where something comes from, but we don’t get lost in the stories of the past. We recognize it, use tools to heal it and move forward. We reframe the past and thank it and everyone who played a role in our learning and no longer let it dictate who we are today. It’s called INNER FREEDOM. And it’s fabulous.

A few more points of distinction:

• Coaching is usually limited to an agreed period of time (6 months minimum – 1 year). It’s a project with measurable goals agreed upon at the beginning of the working relationship. Whereas therapy can go on indefinitely.
• Therapists are licensed and the industry is regulated. The Coaching industry is not regulated, and anyone can call themselves a “Coach”. This is frustrating to those of us who have completed rigorous training programs, and who have invested in our training and development for years. A word of advice: It is important to do your homework and work with a Coach who has done extensive training, is certified and has testimonials from clients. This is your life, so make sure you’re hiring an advisor (aka Coach) that is trustworthy.
• There is room in a person’s journey for both Therapy and Coaching, usually Therapy comes first and then Coaching. Sometimes they occur simultaneously. Coaching is not a replacement for therapy. It can be complementary.
• Think of a Coach as a trusted advisor, a “Consigliere”, so to speak 😉 You are hiring a Coach to help you bring your life to the next level.
• Coaching is an investment, usually an out-of-pocket expense. I would argue that this is also GOOD NEWS. Making this investment will call you forward to create radical changes in your life. You are paying a lot of money for Coaching and that will have you value it and show up for yourself – in a BIG way!

Hopefully, what I have shared here is helpful to you in some way. If you’re interested in learning more about Coaching with me, please go to my Contacts page and fill out a short questionnaire. We will then be in touch shortly to set up your Complimentary Call!

Rooting for you!

xo,

Katie