One of the biggest misconceptions about coaching is that it’s a type of therapy.

While the two services share some tools and roots in common, they are distinctly different offerings. Here’s my way of breaking down the differences. As a licensed clinical social worker who has practiced therapy in the past but now offers coaching, I’m in a unique position to describe some of the main differences between the two. Try thinking of it this way:

Your Baseline/Day-to-Day Life:

You’re in a boat. You’re riding the waves, sailing along. Sure, sometimes the water gets a bit choppy, but you’re well-equipped to handle all that the elements have to throw your way. You’ve got supplies, you’ve got resources, you’re good to go. Even when you get a bit thrown, you get your footing and get back on your route.

Therapy:

The waves have thrown you out of the boat. You’re trying to stay afloat, and you can’t quite get back into the boat on your own. You’re trying, but you need some new skills and resources, and some additional support, to get back in. Or, you have some historic content you want to dive into. In other words, you want to go scuba diving. You’re going to need an expert and proper gear to go there, but you’re ready to dive into some exploration, discovery, and healing of the past. There is actual diagnosis and treatment happening here.

Coaching:

Here’s what a coaching client might say: “This boat is great and all, but I’d like a different view. I’m ready to go parasailing. I want to see things from a different perspective and reach new heights. But, um, where do I start? What kind of equipment do I need?” Your coach is your parasailing partner. They are going to help you SAIL IN THE SKY.

This of course is an oversimplification of these concepts, but it’s a helpful way to start to understand. Many therapists are wonderful at using coaching-style techniques, and they can absolutely be implemented with certain clients. It’s important to note, though, that it’s a different service with different goals. Ethically, once you have provided therapy to a client (if you’re a therapist), once (if) they become ready to have a coaching relationship, you would refer them out. On the flip side, if one of your coaching clients needs therapy services, it of course is time to refer them out and not resume coaching work until they are ready/able.

So what do you think? Are you ready for parasailing? If you’re ready to sail in the sky (metaphorically, that is!), let’s talk.

Emily is a self-care & authenticity coach, Reiki master, and writer in Maryland. She offers services to moms and mom entrepreneurs who are ready to create space to level up and lean into their true selves. She has two little ones and is married to her best friend. She loves hikes, making connections, and finding ways to see things in a new way.