Coaching vs. Consulting

When looking to create balance, navigate challenges, improve relationships or enhance your career where do you turn?

Coaching isn't just a process or a program; it's the transformative journey of self-discovery. Our decisions and hesitations are rooted in how we see ourselves, how we think we fit in the world, and how we see the world itself. When I work with clients, our conversations are sacred. It's an honor to stand with them as they explore their deepest desires, fears, and creative potential.

But here's the question I frequently encounter: “Is coaching like therapy? What's the difference?"

The answer, I must confess, is not always straight forward. Both coaching and therapy have commonalities, but they also possess powerful distinctions. So, if you're considering partnering with a coach or a therapist, clarity is paramount. Let's dive into four distinctions.

1. Mental Fitness vs. Mental Health:

Therapists address mental health issues, diagnosed illnesses, and disorders and certain professionals can prescribe medications. In recent years, the conversation around mental health has become more open and accepting. People are comfortable talking about their challenges and we are understanding that we all face various issues on our journey through life that can require the support. 

As a coach I am focused on mental fitness vs mental health. My clients come to me to strengthen their resolve, expand their self-perception, and enhance their well-being. They seek to create practices that boost their performance, nurture their growth, and develop their skills and emotional intelligence.

2. Vision and Clarity:

A wise colleague once said, "Coaching without a clear vision is just messy therapy." It's a statement that holds true, especially when conversations meander or delve deeply into emotions. Therapists can help clients understand why they are motivated to act, as a coach, my clients determine what they want to achieve during our sessions. This clarity allows us to create strategies that will strengthen their mental fitness or resolve.

Distilling ideas and values down to a clear and measurable vision creates a focus for actionable strategies and growth. Many times people’s frustration of feeling of being stuck or without purpose can be because of a lack of clarity around what they want. As a coach, I always start with the vision so we can move into action and development.

3. Past vs. Future:

Therapists often help individuals grapple with their past, fostering acceptance or addressing emotional trauma. Coaches, however, start with the future. We ask clients where they want to be and who they need to become, using the present as a launching pad. While we respect the past, we don't dwell on it extensively.

4. Feelings vs. Commitments:

Feelings profoundly influence our decisions, and both therapists and coaches acknowledge them. However, coaching takes a different approach. We urge clients to notice how often they let their feelings dictate their actions instead of committing to the necessary steps for progress. Coaching encourages action first, knowing that feelings will align as momentum builds.

As you absorb these distinctions, you'll begin to appreciate the value of both professions. Sometimes, coaching can illuminate the path forward, allowing clients to concurrently work with a therapist to navigate specific challenges and heal.

Mental fitness and mental health are essential areas to continually explore. Studies demonstrate that enhancing mental fitness leads to increased satisfaction, heightened engagement, and a greater sense of purpose. Empowered individuals cultivate optimism, improve communication, articulate their values, and foster stronger social connections.

The coaching industry continues to expand, offering guidance in various domains. As you contemplate your next steps and the support you need, I hope these distinctions provide clarity and insights. 

Remember, a confused mind reacts, while a clear one makes decisions. Coaching can be your vehicle for distilling information, evaluating emotions, and choosing what truly matters and what you're genuinely committed to creating.

Ready to embark on your transformative journey? Reach out, and let's explore the possibilities together. Your path to self-discovery awaits.