What is a Coach...and Do I Need One???

Even those of us who have never stepped foot on a field or court, understand the value of coaching in the sports world. But in the mental health space, sometimes the different terms get confusing.  

Depending on the clinician you choose, there may be a variety of letters behind their names, signaling the approach they take to helping you manage your mental health and personal development needs. Because of differences in personality, preference, approach and need, our office believes in having a spectrum of providers in house.  

Today, we’re going to talk about the benefit of coaches and how they can fit into your overall wellness plan. It's important to understand there is a distinction between counseling and coaching, so this post will hopefully answer some of those questions, but you can also check out our video to get more details.  

First, let’s talk about what coaches and counselors have in common. Both aim to support individuals in navigating life's challenges and achieving their goals. In our office, Both have a high level of academic training on mental health, including diagnoses that may be present and coping strategies that can be supportive. Both also have the benefit of working under the support of our Clinical Director, to give that added layer of expertise to help you live your best life. In short, both counseling and coaching have benefits for you.  

Working with a counselor is best for those who need support exploring past experiences, processing emotions, and developing coping strategies to manage symptoms of distress. Counseling sessions are conducted by licensed or licensed-eligible therapists and may be covered by insurance.

On the other hand, coaching is a forward-focused process aimed at helping individuals identify and achieve specific goals. While not intended to treat mental health disorders coaching can enhance your overall well-being and performance by giving you tools and structure as you navigate how these disorders show up in your life. Coaching sessions typically involve setting actionable goals, creating strategies for success, and providing accountability and support. 

So, how do you know which service is right for you? If you're dealing with significant emotional distress, trauma, or are having difficulty in multiple areas of your life due to a mental health diagnosis, counseling is likely the most appropriate choice. Counseling provides a safe space to explore deep-seated issues and receive professional guidance from a trained therapist. 

However, if you're already functioning well but seeking guidance, motivation, and accountability to reach your full potential, coaching is a great option. Coaching empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward their goals, whether in career advancement, personal development, or relationships. 

As a note, counseling, and coaching can also complement each other. For example, individuals may benefit from counseling to address underlying emotional issues while also working with a coach to set and achieve personal or professional goals. 

Ultimately, the key is to seek the support that aligns with your unique needs and circumstances. Whether it's counseling or coaching, investing in your personal growth and well-being is a valuable step toward living a fulfilling and meaningful life. 

The Well is happy to have both a Certified Trauma-informed Coach and a Certified Christian Mental health Coach on staff to meet your needs. Our administrative staff is also more than happy to assist you with making the right choice. Please reach out to intake@thewellcounselinggroup.com or call 317-471-8996 to get more information or schedule today.