What Life Coaching Is, Isn't, and How It Can Help You

People often ask what coaching is and how it differs from therapy, and here’s what I tell them:

Therapy = Past Focused

Coaching = Present and Future Focused

Therapy primarily addresses trauma, mental health issues, and other things that keep people in a state of dysfunction and bring them to a more functional state.  Coaching picks up here, bridging the gap from the functional to optimal.  A life coach helps bring fresh perspectives, helps set and achieve goals, shows you where you have some limiting beliefs, thoughts, or roadblocks, and provides tools and accountability to help you achieve your desired outcome.  An amazing coach will provide support through challenges and help you explore new ways of thinking.  A coach’s job isn’t to give you all the answers but to help you uncover the answers within and get to the root of the issue. 

While some people hire a coach because they’re going through some pretty significant challenges or feeling unfulfilled, you don’t have to be struggling to seek out a coach.  Many people are doing great and simply want to continue to improve, make some big changes, or have someone supporting them on their journey. 

Types of Coaches

There are so many types of coaches: transformational, relationship, career, mindset, general, etc.  You can probably find a coach for pretty much anything you want to focus on.  Some therapists are also coaches, and some coaches are also consultants (providing more advice and direction – I like to say I’m a coachsultant 😉).

Finding a Great Coach

Find someone whose messaging, brand, and style resonates with you.  Read reviews.  Most coaches offer some kind of free consult call which I recommend.  It’s so important that you find someone who you resonate and connect with. Coaching is not a regulated industry so basically anyone can call themselves a coach, so decide if you mind if they’re certified or not, and ask if this matters to you.

Hiring a life coach is an amazing investment in yourself and your future, and the changes a coach can help you implement are priceless!  I hope this post has helped you understand what life coaching is, isn't, and how it can help you. If you’d like some support with an area where you feel stuck, a career change, or with some goals, reach out!

Schedule a Consult