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 this point, we would discuss that and find a way forward.
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 credibility.
Coaching psychology is a branch of psychology that applies psychological theories and methodologies to the practice of coaching. It combines elements of coaching with insights from psychology to enhance the effectiveness of the coaching process. Coaching psychologists typically have a background in psychology and may hold relevant qualifications, such as a degree in psychology or a related field. Some coaching psychologists may be chartered psychologists or hold other professional certifications.
I am not (yet) a Chartered Psychologist, so do not claim to be a Coaching Psychologist. However, I am a Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society, have undertaking initial training in Coaching Psychology, and am practising psychologically-informed coaching under a Chartered Coaching Psychologist supervisor.
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 look at the roadblocks together and collaboratively figure out 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 to some extent on your ability and willingness to take any agreed action 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.
Sessions are generally 60 minutes long, but shorter or longer sessions may be negotiated.