Counseling, Psychotherapy and Coaching

We are all in the process of becoming.
-Sigmund Freud

We are often asked about the differences between counseling, psychotherapy and coaching. There is some overlap in techniques used in sessions but the three have different goals.

Counseling is primarily concerned with developing and implementing problem-solving strategies that allow you to effectively deal with your daily life. The interaction between you and your therapist helps you identify and cope with emotional or behavioral problems that complicate your life and limit your satisfaction.

Psychotherapy uses a therapeutic relationship to help you modify self-defeating or limiting thoughts, emotions and behaviors. It promotes personal growth and development by improving knowledge of our selves and our patterns of dealing with our internal and external environments.

Coaching is intended to deal with the here-and-now attainment of goals. It is a process that helps clarify what the goal is (if vague or unknown), and how to best attain it. A strategy is developed with successive steps that lead toward the goal. The coaching process continues to provide feedback, encouragement, and course-correction until the goal is attained.

Which of these approaches is most appropriate for you depends on your individual needs and goals; these are decided early in the partnership with your therapist or coach. Discuss your questions and concerns thoroughly to ensure you get what you want out of your efforts. Most of all, get started.

Live Well.