There are some similarities between coaching and psychotherapy, but they are different activities, and understanding the differences between them can help you decide which is right for you. Although both coaching and psychotherapy use knowledge of human behavior, motivation, behavioral change, and interactive counseling techniques, there are major differences in the goals, focus, and level of professional responsibility.

Here are some questions to help you decide whether psychotherapy or coaching is right for you:

• What are your reasons for wanting to work with me? If you are feeling emotional distress, experiencing problems in relationships, or feel that your functioning is impaired in any way, then psychotherapy is more appropriate. If you are, overall, functioning well and feeling pretty good, but are looking for ways to take your life to the next level – change your focus, begin a new venture, break out of being stuck, or challenge your potential – then coaching is the way to go.
  
  
• Do you want to explore the past, understand your emotions or your motivations? If yes, then psychotherapy is appropriate.
  
• Do you prefer to keep a present and future focus, or do you have a specific goal that you would like to achieve? If yes, then coaching may be more appropriate for you.

I would be more than happy to talk with you more about both coaching and psychotherapy, to answer your questions, and to help you decide which approach would best meet your needs. Please call or email me, and we'll set up a convenient time to talk.

Psychotherapy is a health care service provided for the purpose of alleviating emotional distress and unhealthy patterns of behavior. The psychotherapist has responsibility for the welfare of patients who are in a state of distress, and may be vulnerable and in emotional pain. Treatment is covered by health insurance, and is often provided in cooperation with medical practitioners. Psychotherapy sessions are generally conducted in my office, face to face.

Coaching is a business relationship within which you hire me to provide a service. Payment is made in advance, and coaching is not (nor should it be) covered by any health insurance policies. Coaching is designed to give focus, structure, and support to you in achieving life and career goals. Coaching is most often conducted over the telephone, and so I can work with you regardless of your (or my) physical location. If you believe that you would benefit more from hiring me as a coach than from entering into individual psychotherapy, please click here to get more information about life coaching.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about psychotherapy or coaching, or would like to discuss setting up an initial appointment

 

 

 

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