In my business, I offer both coaching and consulting services. I often get the question: what exactly is the difference between the two? And where does therapy fit in? 

These three approaches — coaching, consulting, and therapy — are all valuable resources for personal and professional growth. However, understanding their unique focuses can help you choose the right path for your specific needs. Here's my take: 

Coaching and consulting differ based on the amount of expertise brought to the table.

Consulting: Where I'm The Expert

When I'm consulting, I'm bringing my specialized knowledge and experience directly to your problem. For individuals, this may be akin to mentorship: think of me as a guide who knows the terrain and can offer specific directions and solutions. For organizations, I'm helping you address your problems more quickly because I've already seen a solution that works and can help you implement it.

Example: I'm not going to "coach" you on your resume. I'll give you concrete advice, input, and suggestions based on resumes I've submitted as well as those I've reviewed as part of hiring processes. My expertise is the primary driver in providing you with targeted, actionable guidance. I might offer this 1:1 or in a training. 

You might need a consultant if you: 

• Need specific, expert advice
• Are looking for actionable strategies and solutions.
• Want someone to tell you how to do something based on their proven methods.

Coaching: Where The Client Is The Expert

When I'm coaching, I hold you as the expert on your own life. My role as a coach is to empower you to tap into that inherent expertise and find your own answers. I won't tell you what to do; I'll help you uncover your own wisdom. 

Example: I'm not going to consult when you're deciding whether or not to leave your current job. In this instance, I'll wear my coaching hat, holding space for you as the ultimate authority on your own life's direction. As a coach, I will ask powerful, thought-provoking questions designed to empower you to connect with what you truly want.

You might need a coach if you: 

• Need help overcoming self-imposed blocks
• Are navigating a significant career or life transition
• Want to define your goals and vision for your future

Therapy: Healing the Past vs. Mapping The Future

In contrast to coaching, where we talk about your future vision and direction, the primary role of therapy (in my view) is to help you heal from the past. Therapists are trained to delve into past experiences, traumas, and patterns that might impact your present well-being. 

Example: A therapist might explore why you want to leave your current role by looking at past hurts or traumas that are being triggered or re-experienced in your work environment. They might work with you to understand and heal the roots of your current emotional and psychological challenges. Therapists create a safe, confidential space specifically for deep emotional healing.

You might need a therapist if you: 

• Need to process deep-seated emotional patterns or unresolved conflicts
• Are experiencing mental health conditions that make it challenging to get through a day
• Want long-term psychological healing via self-discovery 

All Three Modalities (Coaching, Consulting, and Therapy) are Resources for Your Growth

Coaching, consulting, and therapy are all valuable resources designed to help you get where you want to go in your life:

• A Therapist helps you unpack and heal from past hurts, so you're less encumbered as you move forward.
• A Coach helps you define what you want to move towards and empowers you to take action.
• A Consultant helps you map out exactly how to get to your destination with specific, expert guidance.

My Approach: Coaching & Consulting

In my practice, I generally combine coaching and consulting. This allows me to create a dynamic space where clients can first identify their deepest desires and then get concrete, actionable strategies for how to achieve them. My work is about empowering you to find your vision and providing the roadmap to make it a reality.

Each professional in this field has their own unique way of practicing. If you're seeking support for your next step, you do not have to navigate it alone! I encourage you to find someone who you feel is a truly good match for your needs and approach. You can apply to work with me as a coach here.