There is often a misconception that a life coach is an unqualified therapist. This is not so! Read on to learn the difference between therapy and life coaching and find out what suits your needs. When it comes to personal development there are three major professions; psychology, counselling, and coaching.
Psychology is a science that studies individuals and groups to better understand how people, communities, and societies function and ways to help them thrive. A psychologist treats a patient through psychotherapy, helping to relieve symptoms through behavioral change. They use scientific methods to often treat clients with mental illnesses.
A counsellor is a trained, objective professional with whom you can build a healing and trusting relationship. They are trained to offer different types of assistance; most frequently talking-based styles of therapy. Counseling is a process of talking about and working through your personal problems. It can be helpful for unpacking a specific issue you are facing in your life. Counsellors are also trained in psychotherapy and often have a specialty, such as grief counselling, family counselling, or couples counselling.
A Life Coach is someone professionally trained to help you maximize your full potential and reach your desired results. They are like a supportive friend and a trusted advisor rolled into one. They’re someone who will push you to identify your goals, hold you accountable, and provide encouragement throughout your journey to become a better version of yourself. They will work with you to remove barriers to your goals, rather than unpack your past.
I view life coaching to be very similar to a boxing coach, except we aren’t going to be hitting anyone — I help you hone your skills, I am on your side, I help you prepare for the challenge, I encourage you when the chips are down, I offer strategies to win, and I celebrate your accomplishments. To continue with the boxing metaphor; you could sit down and read a book about how to be a good boxer, but when you have a coach by your side giving your encouragement and strategies as you learn, you’re much more likely to learn through doing.
I have both formally and informally coached others in business environments for the last 10 years. I’m now branching out into areas I’m passionate about such as self-development, sexuality, alternative relationships, increasing self-worth, and discovering your authentic self. I am a certified Life Coach and I also study a post-graduate diploma in Counselling.
Want to know more about how to discover your true self, beyond the layers of what others expect you to be at home, at work, and socially? Join my Authentic Self — The personal revolution Facebook group here — share with a positive and supportive community how you went with asking for help.
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