There are many similarities between coaching and counselling, but there are also a few important differences.
Counselling generally focuses on addressing and resolving emotional, psychological, and mental health issues. Counsellors often work with people who are experiencing distress, anxiety, depression, grief, or other mental health challenges.
Coaching, on the other hand, typically focuses on personal and professional development. Coaches work with people who generally do not have serious mental health issues, to identify and achieve specific goals, improve performance, and navigate life transitions. Coaching is generally present- and future-oriented and emphasises proactive steps for improvement.
It is important for you to know that if you come to me for coaching, we will not be entering into counselling. However, if it appears that counselling would be a better fit for you at any point, we would discuss that and agree on the best way forward for you.
Coaches come from diverse backgrounds and do not necessarily need specific qualifications or credentials to practice, although many do pursue training and certifications to enhance their skills and effectiveness.
Coaching psychology is a specialised field that integrates psychological theories and evidence-based methods into coaching practice. It draws on insights from psychology to enhance the impact and depth of coaching. Practitioners in this area often have a background in psychology and may hold qualifications such as a Master’s degree in Coaching Psychology. Some are Chartered Psychologists or hold additional professional accreditations.
I am currently in training as a Coaching Psychologist and am expecting to complete my MSc in Coaching Psychology in 2026. I am a Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society and a member of their Coaching Psychology Division.
My aim as a coach is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space in which you can clarify your goals and work towards achieving them. Coaching is a collaborative and action-orientated activity, however, so I will not simply be passively listening. I will be asking you questions designed to facilitate reflection, self-discovery and action, and aimed at helping you to make the changes you want to see in your life.
As appropriate, I will also offer psychoeducation and evidence-based tools to support you in your journey. You will not be pressurised to do anything you don’t want to do; if an agreed task feels too difficult in reality, we will discuss the blocks and collaboratively find an achievable next step.
Because coaching is flexible and tailored to your objectives, the number of coaching sessions you will need will depend largely on your individual needs and goals. Simple and specific goals may require fewer sessions, while more complex or multifaceted goals may require more sessions. Your progress in coaching will also depend largely on your willingness to take any agreed action towards your goals between sessions.
No, not necessarily. The frequency of coaching sessions can be flexible and depends on the preferences, needs and availability of both client and coach, as well as on your goals; some goals may require more frequent check-ins, while others may allow for less frequent sessions. Your financial resources will also play a part, as will your level of independence in making changes without my input. The frequency of sessions will be discussed at the outset, and can be reviewed as necessary.
My AI coach is a digital coaching companion trained in my coaching approach. It offers a calm, reflective space where you can clarify your thoughts, reconnect with your motivation, and identify small, meaningful next steps. It’s not therapy and it doesn’t replace our sessions, but it can support you between them – helping you stay grounded, resourced and moving gently in the direction that matters to you.
Sessions are generally 45 – 60 minutes long, but shorter or longer sessions may be negotiated.