Difference between a Life Coach and a Therapist 

With the introduction of a global pandemic into our daily lives and social distancing as well as social isolation has become not just a norm but a necessity, we become more disconnected and lonely as a species. As the complexity of problems we face increases, our resources to face those problems with continuously deplete. Statistics show mental issues like depression, anxiety & stress to be higher than ever, with more people also struggling with motivation, professional issues, and interpersonal problems in the absence of mental illness. 

The advent of technology and the success of social media, however, also takes credit for increasing awareness among people about these issues and normalizing wanting & needing to seek professional help. In a time where “how are you?” has gone from being a part of small talk to one of the most loaded questions, it's more important than ever to recognize that friends and family can’t offer the support and guidance a trained professional can. And while trained professionals are now accessible through an app, a website, or a simple online call, how does one decide which professional to turn to? 

Settle in, as we help you understand the similarities and differences between a life coach and a therapist so you can make an informed decision about your well-being. 

1. Topics of Focus: Therapists are mental health professionals, who are trained to identify, understand and help treat mental health issues. Life Coaches are not trained in mental health issues or to administer therapy. Thus, a therapist can help you with problems like depression, anxiety, trauma, emotional issues, etc. whereas a life coach can help you navigate career challenges, achieve goals, unlearn habits, etc. Unless a life coach is also a trained mental health professional- which is the case with many life coaches, they cannot make a diagnosis or treat mental health conditions. They are also not trained to administer several psychological tests that a therapist might use as a diagnostic tool or therapeutic aid to help you. 

2. The difference in Approach: Life Coaches and Therapists are professionals, and the end-goal of either one is to help and assist you through the problem you approach them with. However, there is a contrast in the approach they take in this process. Therapists work with emotionally complex issues, which often require going to the root of it and addressing it- which may often lie in the past. Addressing the ‘why’ of the problem is essential in therapy to help you heal, whereas life coaches focus more on the present. They may sometimes briefly address the past if required, but their focus remains on ‘how’ they can empower you best to overcome your issues and achieve your goals. 

3. Duration of Program: Therapy can look very different for each person, and there are several deciding factors at play that influence the duration of the whole therapeutic regime. The nature of client’s issues, complexity and severity of issues, their preferences, the therapist’s strengths, and understanding, type of therapy module chosen..etc. Therapy often has no ‘end date’ and some clients work for several months and sometimes years to heal or work through their problems. Life Coaching, on the other hand, is usually much shorter, specific, and structured. Clients often enroll in short-term programs and are interested in seeing results in a shorter duration. The duration in either profession can be adjusted with mutual agreement between the client & the professional if it serves the needs of the client better. 

4. Qualification and Regulations: Every country has its own set of laws that govern the field of mental health and life coaching. In India, an individual may practice as a “Clinical Psychologist” if they have an M.Phil degree from an RCI (Rehabilitation Council of India) recognized institution and a license. An individual with a full-time master’s degree in psychology may practice as a “Counselling Psychologist”. Several other specializations such as Art Therapy, Dance Therapy, Sports Psychology, etc. may be mastered with additional certification courses. There are no legal restrictions or regulations governing life coaches in India, however, several certification courses exist that one may take to become a life coach. As a client, it is in your best interest to always ask your therapist/life coach for their accreditations and qualifications before trusting them. 

5. Payment and Coverage: Because therapists treat mental illnesses and disorders, your health insurance might cover your therapy fees depending upon the classification of your condition, the country you’re in, and your insurance provider. A life coach’s fee, however, is not covered by insurance as it does not fall under the category of a disease or disorder. Additionally, many companies offer paid sick leaves for mental health conditions and consider a therapist’s note or bill as proof enough. The same is rarely, if ever, applicable for life coaching and other types of coaching. It’s always a good practice to check insurance details, payment structures, and policies before signing up for either of these services and committing to them. 

While we’ve highlighted the various differences between therapists and life coaches, and tried to explain both services to you in-depth, it is important to note that both professions exist to serve a client. Their only goal is to help you and assist you in your well-being journey, and you must do everything you can as a client to make sure they succeed- by putting in the work. A common misconception is that going to a therapist or a life coach involves only talking and venting, whereas the truth is that those are a small part of the whole process. Emotional healing, or achieving goals requires determination, work, and patience. Be kind to yourself, and trust your professional. And while we’re all going through tough times, let’s remember it isn’t easy for professionals either, and so we must be kind and show them the respect they deserve.

Write to us and let us know if our little piece helped you make the right decision! Email: [email protected] or Instagram: @Colco.App.