One question many people have when they need direction in their lives is whether counselling or coaching would be better for them. Both methods are used for specific purposes and can be beneficial based on your needs and objectives. There are slight differences between counselling and coaching you should be aware of to help you decide which one is best.
What Is Counselling?
Counselling is where a person has specific issues they want to discuss with someone in a safe, secure, and caring environment. The issues can range from problems in the marriage to childhood trauma that has never been dealt with. The purpose of counselling is to enable the individual to share what is bothering them without any judgements.
Once they bring their issues out, the next objective is to learn how to address and overcome problems in a constructive manner. Doing so will allow the individual to start to move forward with their life and heal any old wounds.
What Is Coaching?
Coaching, on the other hand, is used when the person is having difficulties deciding on what they want to do next in their life. They might have several different ideas or interests they want to pursue, but realize this is not feasible.
Initially, the individual gains insight into where they are right now. Next, they are guided in creating both short-term and long-term goals. From there, the individual starts to discuss how they can achieve their goals using their own initiative.
For instance, coaching is often used when someone feels they are at a dead-end with their career and are ready for a change or want to discover ways on how they can advance in their existing career field.
Does Counselling and Coaching Share Similarities?
Yes both do share similarities because they are beneficial at helping people learn more about themselves and how to move forward with their lives. Some similarities include:
- Both help people create life plans.
- Both help people feel better about themselves.
- Both offer a safe, secure, and nonjudgmental environment to share anything you want.
- Both require the counsellor to guide you by asking the right questions.
- Both require you to work towards solutions that will help you and your situation.
- Both can help you gain a new perspective on life.
- Both can help you discover your full potential.
- Both rely upon self-discovery and reflection to help you grow.
As you can see, there is a fine line between counselling and coaching. If you are not sure which is right for you, the best place to start is with an initial consultation. This will allow you to openly discuss anything on your mind and allow your counsellor to determine which method is best for you.
To arrange an initial consultation appointment, with Toronto marriage and couples counsellor, and life coach, please feel free to contact me, Ellen Starr, at 416-488-3102 today!
