Helping You Decide: Should You Get Therapy Or Coaching?

Let’s admit it. We are suffering more than ever since the pandemic hit in 2020. The long-term effects of feeling lonely and isolated, the worry that our children have missed too much education and are now behind, the uncertainty surrounding our personal and societal economic futures, and the absurdity of some industries struggling or needing to shut down while others are still booming are just a few of the new things that we're suffering from. It's perplexing. Not to add the pervasive and unsettling political split - which, whatever your viewpoint, can feel very depressing. You may need professional help.

In times like this, it can be difficult to decide whether you need therapy or coaching because both provide support and direction. Different benefits are offered by therapists and coaching. The first step is to understand how the two differ from one another. It may enable you to focus on the option that best suits your needs.

What is the difference between a therapist and a coach?

A coach can assist you with setting goals and creating an action plan to reach those goals. A therapist can help you achieve some of your goals too, but they can offer deeper self-exploration, plus cognitive tools for healing and managing mental health.

Therapists are licensed professionals who are required to meet high ethical standards and must operate within their scope of practice (and within the constraints of the field). Examples of concerns that may be better suited to a therapist include, but aren’t limited to: PTSD, anxiety, depression, trouble adjusting to major stress (such as grief or trauma), bipolar disorder, suicidality, etc.

Coaches, however, are not able to diagnose or treat mental health conditions. Sessions with a coach are often lighter and goal-driven towards specific outcomes. Coaches want to help you level-up your life and be successful. Coaches also do not need to operate within the constraints of the mental health field.

In summary, when it comes to comparing life coaching and therapy, one is not better or worse. Each person has different goals and what might work for one person might not work for someone else.

Some individuals with specialized training can offer both services at once. Reach out and inquire if you are uncertain. Regardless of the path you choose, keep in mind that receiving help and advice from a qualified professional can lessen the severity and duration of a lot of life's challenges while raising life satisfaction.

Did you know?

Some people find benefit in having both a therapist and a coach at the same time, so this doesn't always have to be an either-or situation!

Djuan is BOTH a coach and licensed therapist. She helps women with trauma, anxiety and depression learn to cope with the stress, anger, grief and sadness that are common for those with invisible wounds. She uses different tools and strategies that can help a person start healing anxiety, sadness, helplessness and desire to be accepted.

If you want to learn more, she’d be happy to chat with you about this in a FREE consultation.