How is Coaching Different from Psychotherapy?
by Lyndra Hearn Antonson, CPCC, MSW
This is an important question. Both services are valuable and have their special place.
Coaching is for high-functioning, successful people who are serious about self-growth and change. They desire to live more fully, more joyfully, and/or with greater ease and balance. Coaching encourages deep learning and inspired action.
Coaching is about envisioning your best possible life and moving forward to create it. The emphasis is on the present and future. When negative beliefs present themselves (as they do for all of us,) they are acknowledged. There may be discussion about how to get around or quiet them, but not a delving into how they originated.
Coaches know that the best answers for a client’s life come from inside the client. It’s the coach’s responsibility to provide a safe environment where new attitudes and behaviors can be explored. The coach views the client as naturally creative, resourceful, and whole.
Generally, therapy is for people who are experiencing symptoms of emotional and mental discomfort that interfere with normal functioning in one or more areas of their lives. They may be depressed or anxious. They may be stuck in unhealthy patterns or relationships. Therapy can involve exploring the origins of beliefs that are having a negative impact on the client’s present life, and healing them through a variety of techniques unique to each therapist. Therapists may give advice on the best course of action to take.
Feelings are the realm of both therapy and coaching. Feelings are information about what’s going on inside us. They are a way we express ourselves. They are a way we release energy. They are a way life comes alive for us. It’s only when we deny or bury our feelings that they become a problem for us.
Coaching and psychotherapy are compatible. Some individuals work with both a coach and a therapist simultaneously. Others may choose to work with a therapist before hiring a coach.
If you are in doubt about whether you need a coach or a psychotherapist, you can ask. Call a coach or a therapist that you or someone you know is familiar with and discuss it with them. I’m also happy to answer any questions you have.
