Coaching

Coaching versus Psychotherapy

Although the fields of coaching and psychotherapy provide different services to distinctive clientele, there is some debate about the apparent overlap between coaching and the practice of [Page 148]psychotherapy. To be clear, coaching is not psychotherapy. Nevertheless, similarities between coaching and psychotherapy are evident at the levels of theory and practice. For example, theories of humanistic psychology, such as Abraham Maslow's theory of self-actualization and Victor Frankl's existential approach to finding meaning and purpose in one's life, influence coaching philosophy and practices as well as some forms of psychotherapy. In addition to the related theoretical underpinnings, the alliance or relationship between the client and his or her coach or psychotherapist is a key element of both coaching and psychotherapy that contributes to the client's behavioral changes. Finally, like some forms of brief psychotherapy, personal and professional coaching tends to be solution focused, goal directed, and strengths based.

The purpose for which an individual might seek coaching rather than psychotherapy distinguishes the two fields. Psychotherapy is typically useful for patients whose psychological symptoms interfere with their capacity to function normally. Patients who undergo treatment in psychotherapy may have situational or chronic mental health problems such as severe depression or uncontrolled anxiety that prevent adequate daily functioning. That is, such patients may not be able to attend work or school, or may have difficulties in their interpersonal relationships as a result of their psychological symptoms. Furthermore, individuals with clinically significant personality disorders and other severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder are likely to be more appropriate candidates for long-term psychotherapy than for a coaching alliance. In contrast, coaching provides a means for well-functioning people to seek achievement motivation, self-fulfillment, and other experiences that lead to positive change.

Usually, individuals who select a coaching alliance seek a holistic form of wellness. To that end, coaching styles tend to be present- and future oriented, and to promote the client's positive growth. The goals established in a coaching alliance focus on what the client wants to create in his or her life experience. It follows, then, that there is the expectation that the client will be fully committed to his or her goals and well-being. The coach serves as a sounding board and a personal compass that enables the individual to stay on track with his or her intentions.

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