Coaching vs. Therapy
A common misconception is that coaching is the same as therapy, when in fact they are quite different. Therapy is intended to help people recover from emotional or other psychological disorders such as depression or anxiety. Coaching, on the other hand, is intended to help normal, healthy individuals achieve personal goals such as increased happiness, weight loss, improved work-life balance. etc.
The table below shows a quick side-by-side comparison of coaching vs. therapy
Coaching and Therapy
| Coaching | Therapy |
|---|---|
| Client is emotionally and psychologically healthy | Client is emotionally unwell and in need of healing |
| Focuses on the present and future | Focuses on dealing with the past |
| Driven by goals and taking action | Driven by unresolved issues and feelings |
| Works toward a higher level of functioning | Works to achieve understanding and emotional healing |
| Results-based and focuses on exploring solutions | Explores the root of problems and offers explanation |
| Asks, “Where would you like to be and how can you get there?” | Asks, “How did that make you feel?” |
| Acts on information | Absorbs information |
| Done over the phone, internet or in person | Done in an office setting |
| Coach and client collaborate on solutions | Therapist is the ‘expert’ |
| Contact between sessions expected (accountability and wins) | Contact between sessions for crisis and difficulties only |