Coach, Therapist or Both?
the right help for where you are
You know you want help. You are not sure what kind. Coaching and therapy can look alike from the outside, and the right choice depends on what you need right now. Here is how to tell, and a two-minute check to help you start in the right place.
"Most accomplished people
don't need more information.
They need permission."
Lauren Fine, MD · ICF-Track Coach · TEDx Speaker
The difference
A coach is the right partner for building skills and making decisions. A therapist is the right partner for safety and for healing old wounds. Many people work with both, and neither one replaces the other.
The two-minute check
Read both lists. Notice which one sounds like you right now.
01
You want to make a decision about your work or your life. You want to change how you work, not just how you feel about it. You keep saying yes when you mean no. You are functioning day to day, but you feel stuck. You want a plan and someone to hold you to it.
02
Your mood is low most days. You have lost interest in things you used to enjoy. Your sleep or appetite has changed. You feel hopeless about things getting better. Something from your past keeps getting in the way now. A relationship feels unsafe, not just frustrating.
03
Coaching is a good place to start.
04
Start with your doctor or a licensed therapist. A coach is not a substitute for mental health care. Some of both? Many people see a therapist and a coach at the same time. Start with the therapist, and add coaching when you are ready to focus on decisions and next steps.
Is this for you
A note
If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the US, or call 911. Coaching is not crisis care.
Want the check on paper? Download the free Coach, Therapist or Both? worksheet.
Common questions
What is the difference between a life coach and a therapist?
A therapist is a licensed professional who diagnoses and treats mental health conditions and helps people heal. A coach helps people who are functioning day to day make decisions, build skills and move toward what comes next. Coaches do not diagnose or treat.
Can I see a coach and a therapist at the same time?
Yes. Many people do. Therapy and coaching do different work. If you are doing both, it helps to start with the therapist and add coaching when you are ready to focus on decisions and next steps.
How do I know if I need therapy instead of coaching?
If your mood is low most days, you have lost interest in things, your sleep or appetite has changed, you feel hopeless, or a relationship feels unsafe, start with your doctor or a licensed therapist.
Is a life coach licensed?
Coaching is not a licensed profession in the United States. Coaches can earn credentials through organizations like the International Coaching Federation, but that is different from a state license to practice therapy.
Does insurance cover life coaching?
Usually not. Therapy is often covered by health insurance. Coaching is usually paid for directly.
You are a physician. Will you treat me as a patient?
No. In coaching I am your coach, not your doctor. I do not diagnose, prescribe or treat. If something comes up that needs medical or mental health care, I will tell you and point you toward it.
Ready to start
No pressure. Just a conversation.
The first session is free and there's no obligation. Tell me where you are. I'll tell you honestly if coaching makes sense and if we're a good fit.
Speaking and workshop inquiries welcome. Contact for rates.
Related reading
Physician weighing your options? Read the guide to non-clinical careers for physicians, including the paths that do not require leaving clinical work.