By Ann Imig
Generally speaking, a coach helps us when we feel stuck with a decision, hit a stumbling block, or need clarity about a goal. A therapist assists us during times of personal crisis, serious or stressful life events, or if prolonged issues interfere with our day-to-day wellbeing. One process might lead to the other, and both are highly valuable.
I’m certified in Positive Psychology Coaching, a method grounded in neuroscience and evidence-based research, designed to help people navigate transitions, set and achieve goals, and create other kinds of positive change in their lives, work, relationships, and overall well-being. It is not advice giving, psychological counseling, or therapy.
“Coaching focuses on visioning, success, the present, and moving into the future. Therapy emphasizes psychopathology, emotions, and the past in order to understand the present. The purpose of coaching is frequently about performance improvement, learning, or development in some area of life while therapy often dives into deep-seated emotional issues to work on personal healing or trauma recovery.” – International Coaching Federation