Do you know the difference between a therapist and a coach?
In exploring the helping world, it can be complicated to know where to start or which direction to go. Take these two scenarios below and see where you may fit in:
In one scenario, you’re at a place in your life where you realize you need help. You feel fatigued during the day yet restless at night. You cannot silence worrisome thoughts from consuming your mind. You notice dramatic weight changes and a prolonged alter in your overall mood. Eventually, these experiencing make you withdrawn from friends and family that mean well, yet you feel they do not understand.
At this point, you may be dealing with anxiety. Anxiety is a mental health disorder that requires clinical intervention in which you would benefit from therapy.
If you are experiencing any mental health challenges, illness, or disorder, your best option is to seek therapy.
If you have had prior experience in therapy and have been diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder, clinical depression, or any other mental health condition, do see a mental health therapist. Therapists are educated, clinically trained, and licensed to diagnose and provide treatment for mental illnesses. Therapists assess your behavioral, cognitive, emotional, mental, spiritual, and interpersonal parts of yourself and are sensitive to the interplay these aspects have on your mental health.
In a different scenario, you have specific goals in life but do not know how to attain them. You don’t know what it is, but you’ve hit a rut. You have difficulty feeling motivated. You believe you could get the work done with a little accountability. You do not experience any mental health disorder or any you are aware of. You’ve sought out advice and mentorship, but you need a bit more consistent support.
In this case, you would greatly benefit from a coach. Coaches are not required to be licensed but are certified through training.
Coaches provide education, support, and accountability.
In working with a coach, you set goals and deadlines and receive support throughout the process. You break down your big goals into measurable action items.
Can I see a therapist and a coach?
Absolutely! In fact, if you find that you would benefit from both, make sure to work with a therapist and a coach who are both willing to coordinate your care and develop a comprehensive plan as a team.
We live in a time now where mental health, personal growth, and general well-being are becoming increasingly critical now more than ever.
There are tons of resources out there, so do your research and make sure who you are working with is a good fit for you, your goals, and your mental state. Whether therapy or coaching, both are an investment in your well-being.
Still unsure of your first step?  Give us a call at 470-854-2944 for a free consultation and we’ll help you get started!
