Guide to Choosing Between Coaching and Counseling

When to Choose Coaching

Coaching is ideal if you:

  • Are emotionally stable and looking for guidance to achieve specific goals.

  • Want to explore personal development, clarity around your purpose, or life transitions.

  • Need accountability and strategies for actionable steps to move forward.

  • Are not seeking mental health treatment but want a partner in growth.

Common Coaching Topics:

  • Career transitions

  • Finding purpose or meaning in life

  • Navigating major life decisions

  • Work-life balance and stress management

  • End-of-life planning or death doula services

When to Choose Counseling/Therapy

Counseling is ideal if you:

  • Are struggling with mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma.

  • Want to address emotional pain, life challenges, or difficult experiences.

  • Feel stuck in patterns that affect your well-being and need professional support.

  • Require a safe space to process feelings and heal.

Common Counseling Concerns:

  • Anxiety, depression, or PTSD

  • Trauma or loss

  • Relationship challenges

  • Life transitions causing distress

  • Emotional regulation and coping skills

How to Decide

If you’re unsure which service is right for you, consider the following:

  1. What Is Your Goal?

    • If you’re seeking healing and emotional support, counseling is the best fit.

    • If you’re focused on growth and achieving goals, coaching is more appropriate.

  2. Are You Experiencing Emotional Distress?

    • If mental health challenges (e.g., anxiety, trauma) are interfering with your life, counseling is recommended.

    • If you feel stable but want to improve your life, coaching might be the way to go.

  3. Do You Need a Diagnosis or Insurance Reimbursement?

    • Counseling can provide a mental health diagnosis and is covered by insurance (if applicable).

    • Coaching does not involve diagnoses or insurance but focuses on actionable growth.

Still Unsure? Let’s Talk!

If you’re not certain whether coaching or counseling is right for you, we’re here to help. During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss your goals and challenges to determine the best fit for your needs.