Distinction Between Coaching and Psychotherapy

Last week at a social event I was introduced to a group of guests as a “coach.”   One person asked me if I coached tennis, swimming or what?  I replied no that I was in fact a “life coach.”  They then asked if coaching and therapy were the same or at the very least interchangeable? Before I answered, someone else chimed in that therapy is intense, while coaching isn’t.  With coaching being a rather new profession, I am used to people’s confusion over what life coaches do. Since I am a licensed psychotherapist as well as a trained coach, I can draw a clear distinction between the two approaches.  Both may appear to be the same, but therapy and coaching are indeed different!  Here’s how.

Life coaching is viewed as the clinical arm of the positive psychology movement.  It assumes clients are capable, resourceful and able to set their own agenda for the future.  Coaches help the client to identify their core values and strengths, which lay the foundation that will enable the client to set meaningful goals and take the necessary action to achieve them.  Usually the goals have to do with specific and measurable tasks like…preparing for transitions, starting a new business, time management, losing weight, or maximizing the aging experience.  The coach assumes the role of an equal partner, setting the bar slightly higher than the client would normally do for themselves.  Sessions are usually conducted over the phone, which is convenient and an efficient use of time.  In the event that a therapeutic issue arises, a reputable coach will refer the client to a therapist for treatment.   

The role of a psychotherapist takes a different path.  Here the client’s past is important to understand as it relates to their current situation.  The work may include identifying early experiences that negatively impact the present and resolving unwanted feelings and thoughts generated from those experiences.  Therapy follows the medical model of healing the pathology and includes an identifiable diagnosis.  The relationship between the therapist and client is important and is seen as a hierarchical one with the therapist as the expert.  The style is very nurturing, empathic and cathartic.  Progress can take awhile, because the root of the problem may be deeply entwined or subconscious to the client.  At times therapy may feel vague and without direction, but beneficial insight and awareness can result.  There are some therapists, who effectively use coaching techniques in their work.  Like other health professionals, therapists hold an accredited license to practice, and the sessions may be covered by your health insurance.  

I hope this brief overview clears any confusion or questions you may have had between the two professions.  If you have ever considered working with a coach or would like to stop procrastinating and start improving your life, I am making an exclusive offer to all “Silver Vixens” during the month of June!  The first 6 people who contact me at Barbara@retirementpotential.com will receive a complimentary 30 minute coaching session by phone from the privacy of your own home or office!  Yes, I am offering one individual session to SIX (6) of Bonnie’s readers.  No preparation needed on your part.  Just contact me today to reserve your time for a free coaching session.  Act now; these six appointments won’t last long!

To your success,
Barbara Katz
www.retirementpotential.com  
Barbara@retirementpontential.com  
310.261.0479