Coach vs Therapist?

Written By Kim Williams

Difference Between a Life Coach and a Therapist

Although there may be some overlap in the benefits of working with a life coach and participating in psychotherapy with a licensed therapist, these professionals have distinct roles and serve unique purposes.

Unlike life coaches, therapists and other mental health professionals focus on healing, treating mental health conditions, and helping people work through trauma and other issues from their past. While working with a life coach may help you to deal with certain unresolved issues, life coaches cannot treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, addiction, or any other mental health condition.

Therapists have a degree and are licensed, mental health professionals. They must follow an ethical code and adhere to regulations regarding the confidentiality and ongoing education.

Life coaches, on the other hand, are not governed by a board and don't have to comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and its privacy rules that help protect your personal health information. To that end, a life coach should never be considered a substitute for a mental health professional.

NOTE: If you’re experiencing symptoms of a mental health problem (such as feelings of hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, sleep disruption, and mood disturbance), it’s crucial to consult a mental health professional as soon as possible.

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

Kim Williams
As a child, Kim Williams wanted to be an actor when he grew up. Raised in Myrtle Beach, SC and working in the family business of motel management, he honed his dream by spending much of his early years “acting” as if he were not surrounded by sand fleas, tourists, and aging beach bums. After leaving Myrtle Beach to pursue a BA in religious studies at Wofford College and a Master of Divinity Degree at Southeastern Seminary, Kim Williams spent 15 years as a pastor. He left the pulpit in 1999 and discovered a passion for sales and communication helping people to get what they want, in spite of themselves—which, if you think about it, isn't that big of a career leap. Mr. Williams is a former adjunct faculty member at Queens University and Central Piedmont Community College. Kim has been guest lecturer at Wofford College, Wake Forest University, Forsyth Technical Community College and Elon University. An avid day hiker, author, father, grandfather and serial dog owner – Kim Williams believes that who we are begins with what we believe and what we believe is created by what we do every day.
https://mannamedkim.com
Previous

What Should I Expect from Coaching?
Next

Who Needs A Coach?