Coaching vs. Psychotherapy

A common misconception about coaching is that it is the same as psychotherapy. However, despite any similarities, there are key differences that should be considered before deciding which service to pursue.

1. Psychotherapists are trained and licensed to treat psychological symptoms and conditions. Life coaches cannot deliver psychotherapy services unless they are licensed by a regulatory board or are working under the license of a board-certified professional.

2. Coaching tends to focus on assessing and correcting the present and improving the future and oftentimes addresses one goal at a time. Coaches and psychotherapists should both aim to help clients identify their future goals and agree upon a plan of action to reach those goals.

3. Coaching services are not typically covered by health insurance policies. This means that it is unlikely you will receive any reimbursement from your health insurer for coaching services you pursue.

4. The services provided in psychotherapy and coaching differ in nature. Coaches who are not also licensed as mental health professionals should not be providing you with a mental health diagnosis, prescribing medication, or treating you for a diagnosable mental health condition.

5. If you are seeking the services of a coach, make sure you familiarize yourself with his or her experience and credentials so that you can obtain the right type of assistance to maximize your likelihood of achieving your goals. If we work together, and I believe you will benefit from a medication evaluation to help you improve, I will refer you to a prescribing psychiatrist to further assess your symptoms and needs.