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Unpacking Key Differences Between Coaching And Counseling

Sep 10, 2024

Shownotes For Podcast Episode 10: Unpacking Key Differences Between Coaching And Counseling

In this episode of the Health and Wellness Coach Journal Podcast, Dr. Jessica Singh sits down with Lynn Lebowitz, a master’s level social worker, certified yoga instructor, and resilience coach. In this episode, Lynn shares the experiences which led her to discover the transformative power of coaching. Together, they explore the differences and gray areas between coaching and counseling, including working with the past, navigating the complexities of working with clients through challenging emotions, the similarities and differences between coaching and consulting, knowing when to refer, and the importance of being trauma-informed in coaching.

From Counseling to Coaching

Lynn recounts her early career as a counselor, where she worked within a medical model focused on diagnosis and treatment. However, it was her personal experience with coaching during a health crisis that opened her eyes to the transformative power of coaching. She explains how coaching offered her a space to process emotions, envision her future, and ultimately, create a new chapter in her life aligned with her values.

The Differences and Overlap Between Coaching and Counseling

Lynn explores the nuances between coaching and counseling, emphasizing that while there are distinctions, there is also significant overlap. Lynn discusses the examples of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy compared to Cognitive Behavioral Coaching, Gestalt therapy and mindfulness coaching, Together with Dr. Singh, they discusses the importance of holding space for clients, acknowledging their past experiences, and guiding them toward growth and transformation. In this conversation, they offer practical advice for when coaches should refer clients to health care professionals.

Trauma-Informed Coaching

Having gone through trauma-informed coach training, Lynn and Dr. Singh share insights into how coaches can navigate sensitive moments with clients. They underscores the importance of being aware of trauma triggers and the role of coaching in supporting clients through difficult emotions. Coaching can be therapeutic, even though it is not therapy. Coaches need to be well-trained and aware of their scope of practice.

This episode is a must-listen for coaches who are interested in the ethical considerations of their practice and for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of how coaching and counseling can work together to support clients.