Coaching is a buzz word and we all have opinions about therapy.
But what are they, really? How are they similar? How are they different? And how the hell do I figure out the right one for me, when I’m struggling and need that extra support in my life?!
WTF is Personal Coaching, Anyway...?
Most people I talk with don’t really get the whole “coaching thing,” which is fair – I mean, neither did I for many years…
As a licensed therapist, I had to obtain years of higher education (and student debt), sit for a national and state exam, and continue to earn at least 40 continuing education credits to renew my license every two years, just to keep my (mostly virtual) doors open.
Coaching, on the other hand, does not require any specialized training or education. It isn’t regulated either, so it’s true that just about anyone at anytime can decide, “Hey, I think i’m pretty damn awesome and my friends just love the advice I give them… Imma be a Coach!“
So yeah, I think it’s pretty understandable that many people hear the words “coach” or “coaching” and immediately dismiss it. For me and my colleagues, there is often a deep concern that, without legal and ethical standards to uphold, coaches can charge a lot of money for services that not only could be total rubbish, but could do substantial harm…
What About Therapy (or is it Counseling)?
Great question! Mental health treatment is called a lot of different things and it can be really confusing to navigate from the get.
So let’s start there. When you are seeking any kind of mental health services, you’ll see terms like:
- Therapy
- Psychotherapy
- Counseling
- Mental Health Treatment
- Behavioral Health Services
- Psychological Assessment
Though there are many different types of training, theoretical and clinical approaches, all of these services offer some form of assessment and/or treatment for mental, emotional and behavioral health challenges.
But you don’t need to get bogged down in all that! What you’ll want to focus on is (1) are they licensed in your state, (2) What kind of approach do they take to helping people and (3) is that is what you are looking for, from a provider?
This can be done by exploring provider directories (like Therapy Den or Trauma Therapist Network) or provider websites, but I do highly recommend having a brief conversation with any potential provider (for my phone-phobic friends, via email will suffice), to get clear about what you need and what they can offer.
Breaking it Down: Therapy vs Personal Coaching
Let’s breakdown how therapy and coaching differ and how they overlap. Knowing exactly what each one is and isn’t, is the best tool for making an informed decision about which type of support would be best for you!
Therapy
Oversight
Requires advanced degrees, obtaining and maintaining a license. Regulatory boards prioritize legal and ethical standards in the field to protect the public.
Focus
Healing from past pain to improve your present mental and emotional health; offering effective treatment for mental illness.
Structure
Different clinical approaches utilize different session and treatment structures. Some are highly protocoled, while others are more flexible.
Timeframe
Most therapy is ongoing and open-ended (i.e.: anywhere from 6 months to 10+years, depending on client need and treatment modality).
Cost & Coverage
Average cost of one 50-60min session in 2023 is $150-$200 out of pocket. Because therapy is considered clinical treatment, it is often covered by insurance (either through your provider or via reimbursement).
*It’s important to note that insurance companies require that you receive a clinical diagnosis in order for your insurance benefits to cover your care.
Finding the Right Fit
Therapeutic relationships are very unique. They require vulnerability and trust in order to be most effective. It is key that you give yourself permission to find the therapist that you feel will best facilitate that feeling of safety in you.
Personal Coaching
Oversight
There is currently no state or national regulation of the personal coaching profession. Independent organizations offer training and certification.
Focus
Determine what isn’t working in the present, set goals for changing your future. Coaching does not dive into the past.
Structure
Coaching is highly structured and solution-focused. Specific details are agreed upon upfront, including number of sessions and their duration (e.g.: 30min, 45min, 60min, etc.).
Timeframe
Coaching is usually a short-term process. You may request to extend or return to coaching, but there will always be a clear path toward goal achievement and completion.
Cost & Coverage
The average cost of one coaching session in 2023 varies widely between is $75-$200 and is completely out of pocket. Coaching often offers package rates that may include reduced fees if paid upfront.
Because coaching is NOT treatment, it is not covered by insurance.
*This means no diagnosis of any kind.
Finding the Right Fit
The coaching-client vibe is more about motivation and accountability. You’ll want to find someone who’s philosophy about change inspires you. Ask about background, certifications, and other training they’ve received
How are Therapy & Personal Coaching Similar?
Therapy and personal coaching are also similar in a few ways. For example they can both:
- Help you identify goals that align with your values and the change you seek.
- Provide support entirely centered around what you say you want and need.
- Offer compassionate accountability to help with following through and encouragement for every step you take (no matter the distance) toward progress.
- Teach you new skills that will help you reach your goals and make meaningful, lasting change in your life.
In Sum
If you take anything from this post, I hope it is a greater sense of confidence and empowerment to decide for your self what kind of support might best suite you. Even if you’re thinking to yourself, “Um, neither please, I’ll stick to Krav Maga.“
My priority, as a therapist and a coach, is alway to honor the autonomy of others. I love being able to collaborate with my clients – offer options, ideas, perspectives, skills, structure, support, compassion, etc. – and then stepping aside, to give them the space to decide what they wanna take and what they wanna leave.
So just know, support is available and change is possible. If that speaks to you and you are feeling curious (or even ready), checkout the details below.
Katie Bingner, MS, LCPC-S, is a integrative trauma-informed psychotherapist and communication coach, who’s spent the past 16 years in the health and wellness industry. Katie has dedicated the past 8+ years to helping others (and herself) navigate mental health challenges, live a fulfilling life, and embrace humanness.
Click here for information about coaching with Katie or to book a free Communication Coaching consultation today!