What is the differences between coaching and therapy?
This is one of the questions I am asked most frequently as a mentor coach. This distinction is crucial for our practice and helps us provide the best support to those we work with.
When I onboard new clients, I always take the time to make the distinction because there is definitely some confusion in the marketplace. In fact, I posted a blog called What is the Difference Between Counselling and Coaching way back in 2021 and it is still often referenced today.
Coaching vs. Therapy: The Core Differences
Coaching is all about helping clients achieve specific goals and enhancing their personal and professional development. It’s future-focused and action-oriented, often dealing with the “how” of achieving a goal. Therapy, on the other hand, often involves exploring the “why,” delving into past experiences to resolve psychological issues and emotional distress. Understanding this distinction can empower you to guide your clients more effectively.
Scope of Practice
It’s crucial to know the boundaries of our practice as coaches. Coaching is not a substitute for therapy. If a client presents issues beyond our scope, such as mental health challenges, referring them to a qualified therapist is essential. This ensures that they receive the appropriate care and support they need.
The Role of Credentials
In our coaching world, credentials like the ICF ACC, PCC and MCC are vital. They signify your commitment to the profession and your expertise in the field. These credentials help establish trust and credibility with your clients. If you’re aiming to enhance your coaching skills, consider joining my ACC PCC Group Mentor Coaching Program or my MCC Prep Group Mentor Coaching Program where we dive deeper into mastering these skills.
Communication and Techniques
Coaching employs cultivating trust and safety, establishing and maintaining agreements, and facilitating client growth, to name a few of the core competencies. In contrast, therapy might use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoanalysis, or other therapeutic techniques designed to explore deeper psychological issues. Recognizing these differences ensures that you provide the most appropriate and effective support to your clients.
Understanding these distinctions not only enhances your practice but also ensures you provide the most appropriate and effective support to your clients. To further ground your own competency knowledge, consider trying out my self-directed CCE course How to Learn the ICF Competencies.
If you’re ready to enhance your coaching skills and credentials, let’s schedule a chat to explore how you can take your coaching to the next level. I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Cathy Shaughnessy, MCC, is an active ICF Assessor and ICF Mentor Coach Specialist for ACC, PCC and MCC. A graduate of the Royal Roads University Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching, Cathy has been coaching since 2008 and brings extensive experience as an executive coach, mentor coach, coach educator and assessor to her work with coaches.
Through Perspective In Action, Cathy provides mentor coaching and creates practical resources for coaches preparing for ICF credentials, credentialing exams, renewal and ongoing professional development. Her courses, exam preparation resources and learning tools help coaches deepen their understanding of the ICF Core Competencies, PCC Markers, Code of Ethics and Core Values, and apply that knowledge thoughtfully in their coaching.
Explore Cathy’s mentor coaching, ICF learning and credentialing resources, or subscribe to Cathy’s emails for practical coaching insights, resources and updates.