What is the difference between life coaching and therapy?

Life coaching and therapy are two distinct approaches aimed at supporting individuals in different aspects of their lives. Life coaching is primarily focused on personal and professional growth, goal achievement, and overall life improvement. It operates from a non-clinical perspective and does not involve diagnosing or treating mental health disorders. Instead, life coaches work collaboratively with clients to identify their goals, develop actionable plans, and provide guidance and motivation to help clients reach their objectives. Life coaching is future-oriented, emphasizing the enhancement of one's current life situation and the realization of their potential.

In contrast, therapy, often referred to as counseling or psychotherapy, is a clinical and therapeutic process designed to address psychological and emotional issues, mental health disorders, and past trauma. Therapists are licensed professionals who use evidence-based approaches to diagnose, treat, and manage various mental and emotional conditions. Therapy delves into the client's past experiences and current emotional states to facilitate healing, personal insight, and emotional well-being. Unlike life coaching, therapy is clinically oriented and involves the provision of diagnoses and treatment plans for mental health issues. Both life coaching and therapy have their unique strengths and purposes, catering to different individual needs and circumstances.