Should I choose Counseling or Coaching? What’s the difference?
Don’t let those pesky C’s confuse you. While both can offer valuable support, they serve distinct purposes—and as a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I cannot provide both to the same person.
Counseling is a clinical service focused on mental health, emotional well-being, and healing. It involves addressing past experiences, managing mental health conditions, and developing coping strategies. Counseling is often covered by insurance and follows strict ethical and legal guidelines.
Coaching, on the other hand, is a non-clinical service aimed at personal growth, goal-setting, and life transitions. It’s for individuals who do not meet the criteria for therapy but want structured support in navigating challenges, whether in relationships, career, or personal fulfillment. Coaching is not covered by insurance and is a self-pay service.
Because therapy and coaching have different purposes, I cannot offer both to the same person. If someone is in need of mental health support, they would engage in therapy. If they’re looking for guidance outside of a clinical framework, coaching may be a better fit. My goal is to ensure that every client gets the right kind of support for their needs while maintaining ethical and professional integrity. If you’re unsure which service is right for you, I’m happy to help clarify! Reach out, and let’s explore the best path forward. See our Guide below!
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
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:
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.
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.
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.
