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Which One Should You See, a Therapist Or a Life Coach?

Updated: May 1, 2023

A lot of people have reached out to me after I did a post on World Suicide Prevention Day wanting to know whom they should see – a therapist or a life coach.


Many were concerned about the stigma of seeing a therapist and that seeing a life coach was more affordable, plus there were so many options, especially on social media.


When it comes to your health and well-being you should always do your research and from there make an informed decision. This is especially important if you are considering hiring someone when you are in a vulnerable state or for someone to support your children.


Which one should you see, a therapist or a life coach?


Therapist

  • Relieve and heal issues/disorders, resolve problematic behaviors, beliefs, feelings, and relationship issues

  • Tends to focus on past emotional issues

*Counselors and therapists are required to hold a master’s degree or a Doctorate Degree and are trained to diagnose and treat people with mental health issues such as violence, substance abuse, chronic anxiety, and depression



Life Coach

  • Growth and discovery in personal and professional life

  • Self-awareness, future goals, and action steps that move the client forward

  • Active listening and powerful questions

* Life coaches are not regulated by the government. Unfortunately, many cross over to ‘coaching’ clients who suffer from depression and other mental health and medical issues without having the relevant and necessary qualifications to do so


6 Top Tips for Finding the Right Coach For YOU:


  • Ask if they are certified or accredited (many coaches will display their badges from the schools/academies they trained through so it is easier for you to check if it was an online course or from a creditable institution)

  • Do they have a contract/agreement in place (covering confidentiality)

  • Are they licensed to work as a coach

  • If they are working with children ask if they have been police checked; hold a Safeguarding guarding certificate (for online), a current First-Aid certificate (for in-person)

  • Health/Medical issues are they registered with local health authorities

  • Always ask for a sample coaching session during a Discovery Call so you can see if you are a good fit


The Good News – it can be a combination of the two!


If you are struggling with past issues and need guidance with your current situation or future goals then you may want to consider seeing a therapist and a coach.


In this situation, you will have a strong support system around you and with your permission, both the therapist and the coach can discuss the best plan of action for you to move forward and collaborate with you on which areas they will each be addressing and supporting you with.




If you are interested in finding out how we could work together then grab a coffee and book a FREE call via my Calendly link below



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