Balancing Mental Health and Leadership Goals

Rivka Geoghegan , an executive coach and psychotherapist, helps to clear up a common question: What’s the difference between coaching and therapy?

With World Mental Health Day just around the corner, we’re focusing on mental well-being in leadership. Rivka shares how to navigate the emotional ups and downs of entrepreneurship, avoid tying your self-worth to your business, and choose the right kind of support—whether you’re looking to heal or build.

Navigating the Intersection of Executive Coaching and Therapy: Key Insights for Leaders

Executive leaders often seek support to enhance both their performance and well-being. But how do they determine whether they need an executive coach or a therapist??

Executive Coaching vs. Therapy: Different Paths, Same Goal

Executive coaching and therapy may seem similar, but they serve different purposes. Therapy focuses on healing past experiences and alleviating suffering—it’s insight-oriented, often helping people unpack deep-seated emotions and issues. Executive coaching, on the other hand, is more action-oriented, focusing on professional growth, goal setting, and overcoming challenges in the workplace.

A simple analogy helps differentiate the two: therapy is like "archaeology," digging into the past, while coaching is more like "architecture," building a path to future success. Understanding this difference can help professionals clarify what kind of support they need based on whether they’re seeking to address emotional wounds or improve leadership and career performance.

Deciding Which Path to Take

Choosing between a coach and a therapist isn't always clear-cut, and it’s not solely up to the individual to decide. A qualified professional—whether a coach or therapist—can help assess where support is needed. For example, if you're struggling with mental well-being in a way that feels overwhelming or rooted in past trauma, therapy may be the best option. However, if you’re focused on achieving professional goals and need guidance navigating challenges, coaching is likely the better route.

It’s also common for people to use both services simultaneously. For some, working with a therapist and a coach can provide holistic support—addressing both personal and professional development needs.

The Founder’s Trap: Avoid Over-Identifying with Your Business

A crucial topic discussed is the tendency of founders and entrepreneurs to tie their self-worth to their business success. Leaders often face this challenge, and when setbacks occur, it can feel personal. Many find themselves in an emotional loop where professional failures or successes define their self-worth, which can lead to burnout or emotional instability.

To maintain resilience, it’s essential to separate personal identity from the ups and downs of the business. You are not your business. Learning to make this distinction helps leaders stay grounded, especially when dealing with challenges. This mindset shift can prevent emotional turmoil and allow for a healthier approach to leadership.

Practical Tips for Leaders and Entrepreneurs

Here are a few actionable takeaways for leaders looking to apply these insights:

1. Evaluate Your Needs: If you’re unsure whether you need a coach or a therapist, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. Many coaches and therapists offer initial consultations to help you determine which path is right for you.
2. Practice Emotional Boundaries: Take steps to separate your personal identity from your professional role. Business setbacks aren’t a reflection of your value as a person. This awareness can lead to greater emotional resilience in the face of adversity.
3. Embrace Playfulness in Work: Find ways to keep work enjoyable. Maintaining a sense of playfulness can help lighten the emotional load and keep you energized, even when challenges arise.
4. Manage the Inner Critic: Pay attention to how your inner voice speaks to you, especially during stressful times. Recognize and challenge negative self-talk to avoid letting it define your sense of self-worth.

Building the Right Support Network

Professionals and entrepreneurs don’t have to navigate personal and business challenges alone. Whether through coaching, therapy, or a combination of both, it’s important to build a support system that helps you thrive. The right guidance can offer clarity, reduce stress, and set you on a path toward sustainable success.

If you're ready to enhance your leadership or address deeper emotional needs, reach out to a professional today. Whether it’s a coach or therapist, the right support can make all the difference in achieving both personal well-being and professional growth. Explore the Create Magic at Work podcast for more insights and reach out to experts in your field to find the support that best suits your journey.

Listen to the Episode: Balancing Mental Health and Leadership Goals with Rivka Geoghegan

Discover more on Create Magic at Work .

Connect with Amy Lynn Durham , host of Create Magic at Work.

Key Takeaways:

• Difference Between Coaching and Therapy: Therapy is insight-oriented and focused on healing from the past, while coaching is action-oriented, focusing on achieving future goals.
• Choosing the Right Professional Support: If you're unsure whether to seek a coach or therapist, it often depends on whether you want to heal or build. Consulting a professional can help guide that decision.
• Founders and Self-Worth: Entrepreneurs often tie their self-worth to business success, but it's important to remember that external outcomes do not define your value.
• Balancing Mental Well-being: Being aware of your internal emotional landscape helps you avoid letting outside influences negatively impact your self-worth.