COACHING FAQS

HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED A COACH, COUNSELOR, CONSULTANT, OR MENTOR?

Let us clarify some terms so you can access the right type of help and support.  Each role has a different and important function and we encourage everyone to create a strong network of support that will serve you well now and in years to come.

COACH:  This type of professional provides you with information, feedback, and accountability to help you improve your performance and reach your goals.  A coach will help you create a game plan that is in alignment with your goals and values, identify problems and barriers, and strategize ways to help you continue to move forward.  Coaches are experts in the change process and leadership development.

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COUNSELOR:  This type of professional should be independently licensed in the state in which she or he practices.  A counselor will help you address mental health issues, alleviate distressing symptoms, restore functioning, and support you in your personal growth.  Counselors are experts in personal development and mental health issues.

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CONSULTANT:  This type of professional is a subject matter expert and provides advice in specific knowledge areas.  Consultants are hired to provide training, advice, and guidance to other professionals who may not have the depth of knowledge or experience in a specific area.  Consultants are experts in specific subject areas.

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MENTOR OR SPONSOR:  This type of person may or may not engage in a formalized, professional relationship with you.  On a personal level, a mentor or sponsor may be someone who has gone through certain life experiences and is willing to share that knowledge with you.  On a professional level, a mentor or sponsor will be someone who will "show you the ropes" and help open doors to different career opportunities.  A mentor or sponsor is not necessarily an expert, but is a role model who sets an example of how to achieve what they themselves have achieved.

I'VE READ ABOUT LIFE COACHING.  WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A LIFE COACH AND A COUNSELOR?

TOP 5 MYTHS ABOUT LIFE COACHING:

Myth #1:  All Life Coaches are created equal.

Myth #2:  Coaching focuses on the present and future and counseling focuses on the past.  

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Myth #3:  Coaching is focused on solutions and counseling is focused on problems.

Myth #4:  Coaching can resolve long-standing issues in much fewer sessions than can be achieved in counseling.

Myth #5:  Coaching is a partnership of equals whereas counseling is a relationship between people of unequal status with the power differential in favor of the therapist.

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TRUTHS ABOUT LIFE COACHING:

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Life coaching is an unregulated profession, which has made it easy for unlicensed, under-educated people to provide pseudo counseling-like services.  There is a real danger to this. Even well-intentioned life coaches can do harm if they don't recognize the signs of mental health issues that require expert treatment.  At East Coast Counseling, we will assess your unique needs and provide you with guidance as to which service is right for you.