3 Main Differences Between Therapists and Coaches
I have heard some of my coaching clients say how helpful it was to differentiate the roles of psychotherapist and coach in our coaching contract; which led the to think that this may be an area where there is a collective gap in information out there.
I work with an amazing attorney, who actually became a lawyer after having been a psychotherapist. Talk about re-inventing ourselves! The blending of two identities, hats, roles is often challenged in our linear society. Yet, the pull for a more fluid, inclusive, non-binary world in the whole extent of the word seems to be brewing.
Our careers sometimes are seen as set identities. In my case, the role of psychotherapist is a clinical foundation that I would not change for the world, but the more and more that I offer other modalities, I see it as my duty to inform my clients of what some of these responsibilities are.
As psychotherapists:
1. We have a license given by the state to identify, diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders. The language used in the United States, qualifies depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use and other diagnoses as an illness. Indeed, much of the symptomology around a mental, emotional or nervous system diagnosis can be debilitating and can exacerbate other underlying health concerns such as thyroid or blood pressure issues. Thus, a cohesive medical approach is suggested and most most likely than not, covered by health insurance.
2. We are mandated reporters. We are obliged to report any domestic violence, child or elderly abuse, or imminent risk of harm to yourself or others.
3. We are trained in Western-based approaches, where the power differentials between clinician and patient innately places the patient in the space of vulnerability. It is traditionally a dynamic where trust is developed over a long period of time.
As coaches:
1. We seek to be more direct and challenging in our approach. A coach-client dynamic seeks to avoid power differentials. A therapy client may need to come to therapy in order to gain emotional balance. A coaching client wants to come to session to shift, take risks, and reach set goals.
2. We integrate innovative modalities, often from non-Western traditions.
3. We develop strategies, exercises, models to resolve, expand, and reach clear goals in the areas of spirituality, finances, relationships, career, and more. Coaches do not diagnose.
