Do I need a life coach or a therapist?
This is a really good question; and an important one. If a potential client isn’t sure which would serve them better, I’ll start by asking the following questions:
Are you holding down a job or taking care of responsibilities around the house if you’re a stay-at-home-parent? Are you showering, brushing your teeth, eating normally?
Are you socializing as much as you usually do?
Has an old trauma surfaced?
Have you had a major life change like a significant death in the family, lost your job, suicidal thoughts?
Have you ever been diagnosed with or think you might have Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, or Bipolar Disorder?
If someone answers no to the top two bullet points, or yes to the bottom three, I’ll suggest they talk to a therapist first. I always want to make sure people are getting the support they need and I’ll never proceed with coaching if I think therapy is what’s in their best interest.
There is some overlap between life coaching and therapy. Both involve sharing what’s on your mind and heart, looking at what works and doesn’t, and getting you where you want to go.
Generally speaking, therapy is often past-focused. You might spend a lot of time discussing your childhood, your choices, and where things went wrong. You’re up in your brain a lot.
Coaching with me is present and future-focused. With compassion and zero judgment, we’ll take a look-see at the patterns that got you where you are, decide where you’d like to go, and then get you there. It’s like using the bumpers at a bowling alley. I’m going to help keep you in your lane and guide you as you make your way to your goal. I don’t have your answers but I have some really good questions that will help you find your answers.
Clients often tell me they feel lighter, freer, and less messed up after we’ve talked than when they leave a therapy session.
Anxiety, boundaries, relationships, work challenges, how you see and treat yourself, food and alcohol issues? Those are my jam!
Click here to schedule a free chat to see if we’d be a good fit :)
