Coaching & Therapy

I am emphatic about helping my Executive Coaching clients understand that I am a not a therapist by letting them know that I abide by the ICF Code of Ethics that prevents me from engaging in methodologies in which I am not licensed, or that I do not perform a modality that we have not agreed to prior to the session. This clarity is critical, so the client has a clear understanding that coaching is not therapy. Both coaching and therapy aim to help individuals improve their lives, but they approach this goal from different angles and with different tools.

Coaching is a goal-oriented process that focuses on helping individuals achieve their personal or professional aspirations for the present and in the future. Coaches typically work with clients who are generally functioning well but want to enhance their performance, expand their possibilities, or overcome specific challenges. Coaching sessions are often structured and action-oriented, with coaches guiding clients to set SMART goals, develop strategies, and identify resources to achieve their objectives.

Therapy, on the other hand, is a mental health intervention that addresses underlying psychological issues, emotional distress, or mental disorders that deal with resolving pain from the past. Therapists are trained mental health professionals who use various techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or mindfulness-based therapy, to help individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Therapy sessions often delve into the past to explore the root causes of current problems, with the goal of improving mental well-being and fostering healthier coping mechanisms.

When Clients choose coaching, they are typically:

• Looking for help to achieve a specific goal.
• Feeling stuck or unmotivated.
• Want to develop new skills or habits.
• Want to improve communication or relationship skills.

When Clients choose therapy, they are typically:

• Struggling with their mental health.
• They are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or trauma.
• They have a mental health diagnosis.
• They want to learn how to manage their emotions and stress.

In summary, coaching is a valuable tool for individuals who want to optimize their performance, achieve specific goals, and enhance their overall well-being. Therapy, on the other hand, is essential for addressing underlying mental health concerns, emotional distress, and mental disorders. Understanding the distinct roles of coaching and therapy can help individuals determine which approach is best suited to their specific needs but as a coach, you should always remember to help your client not to get the two confused. I hope this helps...

Certifiably yours,

Dr. LaVerne

Dr. LaVerne Adams, ICF PCC, is the coach's coach and is the Chancellor of the Rich Coaches Academy, an ICF accredited coach training program focused on helping mature professionals of diverse backgrounds to be highly effective, in high demand, and higher income earners. To find out about available scholarships, please go to https://richcoachesacademy.com for more information and to apply.

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