Coaching and Counseling are not the same. Coaching derives from psychology and counseling, but the focus is present and future centered, rather than centered on the past. In counseling, the therapist’s focus is mostly on healing past wounds. In coaching, the coach’s focus is on helping the individual understand their current situation, needs, and wants in order to setup goals that will allow them to live up to their full potential. Coaching is mainly for healthy individuals who need guidance and encouragement to reach their personal or professional goals. Counseling on the other hand is therapy that must be practiced by licensed professionals who are especially trained to evaluate, diagnose and treat mental health issues.

An ethical coach will not practice counseling with their coaching clients. If necessary, the coach will refer their clients to a qualified psychotherapist or mental health professional to work with any pathology or illness present. Coaching may resume once the disorder or illness is under proper care and the client has been cleared to continue.