Navigating adulthood can be quite challenging. While circumstances differ from person to person, everyone encounters struggles along the way. Family, friends, and even social media influencers often provide comfort and support, making tough times feel a bit more manageable. Sometimes, simply verbalizing our issues can diminish their weight and fright.
When I was 20, I found myself in need of support, craving a more impartial perspective than what my friends could offer. That’s when I sought out a campus therapist. Had social media been as prevalent then as it is now, I might have stumbled upon ads promoting life coaches and likely would have sought one out.
Throughout my life, I’ve engaged with coaches and mentors, but my own feelings of shame about needing professional help led me to avoid therapy for a long time. Instead of viewing therapy as a path to healthier relationships, I was trapped in the belief that I was somehow “broken.” In reality, I was simply in need of assistance, and I’m genuinely thankful I found it through qualified professionals.
While life coaches can be valuable, it’s crucial to remember: they are not therapists.
I’ve been in therapy for over two decades, with the same psychotherapist for nearly 15 years. My therapeutic journey has been complemented by support from a psychiatrist. Together, my mental health team aids me in achieving my goals and making sense of my daily experiences in light of past challenges. I trust and value my therapists deeply, and I encourage everyone to seek therapy at least once in their lifetime. However, I don’t categorize them as coaches.
Therapists undergo extensive education and training to become licensed professionals, adhering to ethical standards and regulations set forth by governing bodies. While some life coaches may be affiliated with the International Coach Federation (ICF), many do not require any formal qualifications to practice or market themselves.
This doesn’t mean life coaches are deceitful; on the contrary, they can be great allies in personal and professional development. Depending on your goals, a life coach can provide support, lessen stress, and help you become more fulfilled and productive. However, it’s essential to recognize that their services do not equate to therapy.
A therapist delves deeper, helping individuals understand the roots of their fears, anxieties, and relational issues. While a life coach may offer tools to alleviate discomfort, true self-discovery and growth often necessitate a qualified professional who can navigate the complexities of the mind. Therapists are trained to recognize how past experiences shape present behaviors and can provide diagnoses that may lead to necessary treatments, including medication.
There’s no shame in seeking clarity. I’ve experienced both coaching and the therapeutic process. For several years, I served as a high school rugby coach, offering life lessons to my players. I was their cheerleader, teacher, and trusted confidant. Yet, I always understood the importance of not overstepping into roles I wasn’t trained for. It was never my duty to act as a therapist.
Interestingly, therapists can also embody coaching roles. My relationship with my therapist has always remained professional, but I find myself wanting to make her proud. Her excitement during my breakthroughs reinforces my sense of being understood. She knows the history that shapes my decisions and provides actionable, evidence-based solutions. She can also identify when I’m resisting progress and adjust our approach to ensure I remain on the path to wellness.
While life coaches can certainly guide individuals toward peace and focus, their scope of practice has limitations. When seeking assistance, it’s vital to find someone you trust and can be vulnerable with. It’s worth being honest with yourself: while a life coach may enhance your life, a therapist might be essential to saving it.
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In summary, while both life coaches and therapists provide valuable support, understanding their differences is crucial for anyone seeking help. Each serves a unique purpose, with therapists offering deeper psychological insights and life coaches focusing on personal growth. Be honest with yourself about your needs and seek out the right type of support.
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