What's the Difference Between Therapy and Coaching?

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THERAPY & COACHING?

In the pursuit of personal growth, mental health, or life fulfillment, many individuals find themselves wondering whether they should seek the help of a psychotherapist or a coach. While both professionals can play pivotal roles in guiding individuals through challenges, psychotherapy and coaching are distinct disciplines with different methods, goals, and frameworks.

Let’s take a look at some of the key differences between psychotherapy and coaching, helping you understand which approach might be best suited to your needs.

1. Purpose and Focus

One of the fundamental differences between psychotherapy and coaching is their purpose and focus.

• Psychotherapy: The primary aim of psychotherapy is to heal emotional or psychological distress. It is often the treatment for mental health disorders. It focuses on resolving past traumas, managing mental health conditions (such as anxiety, depression, PTSD), and improving emotional well-being. Therapists are trained to identify underlying issues and patterns, often rooted in childhood or early life experiences, and help individuals work through these problems to foster healthier thinking and behaviors. Therapy often involves exploring deep-seated emotions and addressing dysfunctional beliefs or coping mechanisms.

• Coaching: In contrast, coaching focuses on goal-setting, personal development, and future-oriented growth. Coaches help individuals clarify their goals, enhance their performance, and achieve success in various areas of life, such as career, relationships, or overall fulfillment. While coaching may touch on emotions, it is generally more action-oriented and solutions-based, concentrating on improving present and future outcomes rather than analyzing the past.

2. The Nature of the Relationship

The relationship dynamic between a client and a therapist or coach is another critical distinction.

• Psychotherapy: The therapist-client relationship is often more structured and hierarchical, with the therapist taking on the role of an expert who guides the client through the healing process. Therapists are ethically and professionally bound to provide clinical support based on psychological theories and techniques. This relationship is typically more formal, with clear boundaries in place to maintain a safe and supportive environment for discussing sensitive issues.

• Coaching: The coach-client relationship tends to be more collaborative and equal. A coach acts as a partner in helping the client achieve their personal or professional goals. Coaching is less about treating problems and more about maximizing potential, so the relationship is built on mutual trust, open communication, and shared responsibility. Clients are encouraged to take ownership of their growth, and coaches provide accountability, motivation, and practical tools to help them succeed.

3. Training and Credentials

The training and credentials required for therapists and coaches are vastly different.

• Psychotherapy: Therapists are mental health professionals who must undergo extensive education, training, and certification. Most therapists hold advanced degrees in psychology, counseling, or social work (e.g., a master’s or doctoral degree), and they are licensed to practice by state or national boards. They are required to follow strict ethical guidelines and receive ongoing supervision and education throughout their careers. Therapists are also trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders, making them uniquely equipped to handle complex emotional or psychological issues.

• Coaching: Coaching, while an established and growing field, is not regulated in the same way as psychotherapy. Coaches come from a variety of backgrounds and typically receive training through coaching certification programs. While some coaches may have backgrounds in psychology or related fields, formal psychological training is not required to become a coach. The certification process for coaches is generally shorter and less rigorous than that for therapists, and there are many coaching organizations with different standards and approaches. However, reputable coaches often obtain certifications from well-known coaching bodies, such as the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and often hold masters or doctorate degrees.

4. Scope of Practice

Another significant difference between therapy and coaching is the scope of practice—what each professional is legally and ethically allowed to address.

• Psychotherapy: Therapists are trained to work with individuals dealing with mental health disorders, trauma, and deep emotional struggles. They can diagnose psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. Therapists are also equipped to manage crises, including issues of self-harm, suicidal ideation, or substance abuse. Therapy typically involves in-depth exploration of emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns, often delving into past experiences to foster healing and growth.

• Coaching: Coaching, on the other hand, focuses on the present and future, helping clients set and achieve personal or professional goals. Coaches do not treat or diagnose mental health conditions, and they are not equipped to manage severe emotional distress or psychiatric disorders. Coaching is more practical and strategy-based, dealing with issues like career progression, work-life balance, improving relationships, and developing skills. If a client presents with mental health concerns, a responsible coach will refer them to a therapist for proper treatment.

5. Approach and Techniques

Therapists and coaches use different techniques and approaches to guide their clients toward change.

• Psychotherapy: Therapy draws from a wide range of psychological theories and therapeutic modalities, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, or trauma-informed approaches. Therapists help clients understand their emotions, identify negative patterns, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Therapy often involves deep introspection, emotional expression, and the development of self-awareness. It is generally a longer-term process, aimed at addressing complex issues over time.

• Coaching: Coaching uses a goal-oriented and action-focused approach. Coaches often help clients identify their strengths, overcome limiting beliefs, and create concrete plans to achieve their objectives. Popular techniques in coaching include goal-setting, accountability tracking, motivational interviewing, and performance-based assessments. The coaching process is typically shorter-term, with the focus on helping clients make tangible progress toward their goals. Coaches also encourage clients to challenge their own thinking and take proactive steps to reach their desired outcomes. Coaching often involved activities and action-oriented tasks to do outside of the coaching sessions.

6. Time Commitment

The duration and frequency of sessions can differ between therapy and coaching.

• Psychotherapy: Therapy often requires a long-term commitment, especially when addressing deep-rooted emotional or psychological issues. Sessions are typically held once a week or every other week and can continue for months or even years, depending on the client’s needs and goals. The timeline for therapy is more open-ended, as emotional healing can take time and varies from person to person.

• Coaching: Coaching tends to be more short-term and goal-specific. Clients often work with a coach for a few months, focusing on a specific area they want to improve or a goal they want to achieve. Sessions may be held weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, and the coaching relationship often concludes once the desired outcomes have been reached.

7. Client Population

The types of clients who seek therapy versus coaching may also differ.

• Psychotherapy: Individuals seeking therapy often do so to address emotional pain, trauma, or psychological distress. They may be experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, or post traumatic stress disorder. Therapy is appropriate for anyone struggling with mental health conditions, personal crises, or unresolved issues from the past.

• Coaching: Coaching clients are usually people who are already functioning well but want to improve specific areas of their lives, such as their relationship. They may be seeking career advancement, personal development, or support in reaching life goals. Coaches work with individuals who are motivated to make changes but don’t necessarily have deeper mental health concerns.

Both psychotherapy and coaching offer valuable support, but they serve different purposes. Psychotherapy is essential for those dealing with emotional distress, trauma, or mental health issues, providing a safe space for healing and recovery. Coaching, on the other hand, is ideal for individuals looking to enhance their performance, achieve goals, and foster personal or professional growth.

Understanding the differences between the two can help you decide which path is right for you, whether you need deep emotional work or goal-focused guidance to navigate life’s challenges. Both disciplines, when used appropriately, can lead to profound personal transformation and success.

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If you are needing support, virtual coaching services are available, see Online Coaching with Dr. Shelley. Online services are provided by telephone or online through a virtual portal, which allows you to be in the comfort of your own home during sessions & have increased privacy. Appointments may be booked online or simply email Dr. Shelley with any questions or appointment requests.

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Blog written by: Dr. Shelley Sommerfeldt, Relationship Coach & Founder of the Loving Roots Project, an online practice specializing in personal growth, mental wellness, & relationship betterment.

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