Coaching, Mentoring, Counselling and Therapy - which one do I need?
You know you want to make some changes, and you need some support. But you’re not sure what support to get.
In this blog I’ve set out what I see as the key differences between Coaching, Mentoring, Counselling and Therapy. I’ve used all 4 of these in the past, so from personal experience I see the power in all of these disciplines (when practiced by a skilled professional).
Firstly, to say that looking for support; a shoulder to lean on, or someone to help you get the best out of life, is a really positive step to take. And that each of the disciplines of Coaching, Mentoring, Counselling and Therapy all have their place.
If you’re reading this in the UK, it’s not the norm to have the support of a Coach, Mentor, Counsellor or Therapist. But over the pond in the States it is the norm. I look forward to the day that it becomes the norm in the UK. I believe we all need support at some times in our lives.
I’ll get started with Coaching:
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential”
My purpose, that what lights me up, is to help my clients to heal and flourish in their lives, and one of the tools I use is Coaching.
I believe we all have the capacity to heal and flourish in our lives, and that we have it within us.
I use the word ‘heal’ to describe what I do with Coaching, but I do not use it in terms of healing from mental illnesses which require therapy. I believe the forward looking approach of Coaching can work alongside therapy, but is not a replacement where therapy is what is really needed.
I use the word ‘heal’ as in my approach to Coaching, we look at where the past is still impacting us in the here and now, and heal from there. We do not dig back to understand in detail the past or overcome traumatic events. We instead offer ourselves compassion and acknowledge where we are at today, and then work to create new mindsets, new beliefs, and new behaviours that will serve us going forward.
I believe in the power of Pure Coaching, knowing we are all completely and utterly unique, with our own resources and creativity to find ways forward. I’m not there to tell you what to do. If I told you what to do, I would strip away your power and your beautiful uniqueness. I bring my years of experience on my own journey, formal trainings, and client practice, to create a framework that sets you up to succeed as you move forward.
Within Coaching Programmes, but outside of Coaching Sessions, I do share my wisdom, but on the understanding that you can take what you need and leave what you don’t.
I’m there as a partner to walk along beside you as you move forward in your life.
Mentoring is when someone who is further along on their journey/career offers informal advice to you. They share their advice based on their personal and professional expertise. They will also likely have contacts in the field you are pursuing who they can recommend and connect you with. Mentoring is a hugely valuable experience to help you move forward on a similar path of development as your Mentor.
Counselling and Therapy
I have put these two together as they are both only practiced by a licensed mental health professional.
Some key qualities of Counselling and Therapy are as follows:
“Why” orientated
Diagnostic
Retrospective
Recovery from past traumas and pain
May involve medication and collaborative care with a medical team
Key for dealing with mental illness such as depression, substance abuse, or psychological suffering.
Wrap Up
For some it will be a blend of these disciplines that they need.
I have worked with those who are in ongoing therapy but want to also make proactive changes in their lives through Coaching. Key is open communication, so that the therapist is fully aware of what the Coaching Programme involves and that the client is open with their Therapist about the work they are doing with their Coach.
If you’d like to work with me through one of my Coaching Programmes, you’ll notice that I ask in all Consultation calls if you are already working with a Therapist or Counsellor and I ask you to discuss with them your plans to start a Coaching Programme before you sign up. And I’m always happy, with your permission, to speak to your Therapist or Counsellor, or a Mentor, so that we can all work together.
I hope this has given you a bit of flavour for what these disciplines might help with, and do get in touch if you’re interested in Coaching as the right support for you.
But before I finish up, I just wanted to say if you are in a place where you need support with mental health challenges, then please get support. Reaching out can feel like a big step, but it will be so worth it. I have included below links where you can find support when you need it.
Mental Health Support
UK:
Emergency;
999: Call if you or someone else is in danger
A&E: Go to A&E if you or someone else is in danger
Mental health support services;
NHS 111: Call 111 and select the mental health option
Samaritans: Call 116 123 for free, 24/7 emotional support
Shout: Text "SHOUT" to 85258 for free, 24/7 crisis text support
Papyrus: Call 0800 068 41 41 for free if you are under 35 and experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide
CALM: Call 0800 58 58 for free if you need help
The Silverline: Call 0800 4 70 80 90 for free if you are over 55
You can also talk to your GP about your mental health. They can give you advice and introduce you to a mental health service.
You can also try these resources: Mental Health Foundation, Mind, and nhs.uk.
USA:
Emergency;
9-1-1: Call if you or someone else is in danger
ER: Go to ER if you or someone else is in danger
Mental health support services;
befrienders.org - independent charity and global network poviding support to prevent suicide
GoodTherapy.org - platform to find a therapist, counsellor or mental health services in the States.
GrowTherapy.com - platform to find an in person or online therapist in the States covered by insurance
Betterhelp.com - global platform to find an online therapist or counsellor