Coaching and therapy are both forms of professional help that can be used to improve mental health and well-being, but they have some key differences.
Therapy is typically focused on addressing specific mental health conditions and symptoms, such as depression or anxiety. A therapist works with the individual to understand the underlying causes of their mental health issues and develop strategies to manage them. They may also use techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and talk therapy to help the individual change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Coaching, on the other hand, is more focused on helping individuals achieve specific goals and develop new skills to improve their overall well-being. A coach works with the individual to set and achieve personal goals, such as developing healthy habits, managing stress, or building a support system. They may use techniques such as goal-setting, action planning, and accountability to help the individual achieve their goals.
In some cases, coaching and therapy can be used together to address both specific mental health issues and overall well-being. For example, a therapist may work with an individual to manage their symptoms of depression, while a coach may help them set and achieve goals to improve their overall well-being.
It’s important to note that therapy is considered a medical treatment and usually is covered by health insurance. While coaching is not considered a medical treatment and usually is not covered by health insurance.