When it comes to comparing coaching and therapy, one is not better or worse. Each person has different goals and what might work for one person might not work for someone else.
A coach can assist you with setting goals and creating an action plan to reach those goals.
A therapist can help you achieve some of your goals too, but they can offer deeper self-exploration, plus cognitive tools for healing and managing mental health.
FOCUS
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Past, present, & future
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Mental health
HIGHLIGHTS
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Addresses thought & relationship patterns
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No financial guidance
DIRECTION
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Supports you draw your. own conclusions via insight & introspection
ETHICS
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Code of Ethics
CONFIDENTIALITY
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Yes, with a few legal exceptions
EDUCATION
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Varies by state (mandatory 4+ years bachelor's)
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Master's degree (in some states)
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Optional Doctoral degree
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State-Set internship hours required
LICENSURE
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Supports you draw your. own conclusions via insight & introspection
FOCUS
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Present & future
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Goals
HIGHLIGHTS
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Addresses thought patterns
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Addresses relationship patterns sometimes
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Financial guidance sometimes
DIRECTION
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Steers desired behavior
ETHICS
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No global code of ethics (but those certified by ICF have a code based on the honor system)
CONFIDENTIALITY
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Not legally bound by confidentiality (life coaches certified by ICF are advised to communicate confidentiality, but it's not protected under law)
EDUCATION
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Optional certificate or supplementary training
LICENSURE
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No license needed
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Not regulated
