Understanding the Difference Between Psychotherapy and Coaching
One of the most common questions I hear from potential clients is:
“What’s the difference between psychotherapy and coaching?”
This is a great question, and it took me a while to realize that I could offer both while keeping clear distinctions between the two. While there is some overlap, there are also fundamental differences that define each practice. I want to take some time to explain how my work as a psychotherapist and a holistic coach are similar, how they differ, and how I navigate these roles.
The Core Similarities
In both psychotherapy and holistic coaching, my primary goal is to guide people toward the present moment, provide a safe and supportive space for their unique processes, and help them reconnect with their bodies. Healing and transformation take time. It takes time to understand where a client is, explore which practices work best for them, and allow their natural healing journey to unfold at its own pace. Regardless of the modality, I honor each client as a unique cosmology of mind, body, heart, spirit, and soul.
The Psychotherapy Lens
Psychotherapy is a structured, evidence-based practice focused on improving mental health. In this capacity, I work under a board-regulated license, which comes with specific responsibilities and boundaries. Here are the key elements of psychotherapy:
Evidence-Based Practices: I use therapeutic techniques grounded in research to address mental health concerns.
Diagnosis and Insurance: As a licensed social worker, I provide diagnoses and can submit claims to insurance on behalf of clients.
Ethical Boundaries: To maintain a safe and confidential space, therapists are prohibited from engaging in “dual relationships” with clients. Once you’re working with me as a therapist, I cannot work with you in any other capacity.
Psychotherapy is particularly effective for individuals seeking support with mental health challenges, emotional regulation, or trauma recovery. It’s a path for those who want a clinically informed and structured approach to healing.
The Coaching Perspective
Holistic coaching, on the other hand, offers greater flexibility to integrate alternative modalities and spiritual perspectives. It allows me to bring a more expansive toolkit into my work. Here are the defining aspects of my coaching practice:
Integrative Modalities: Coaching provides the space to include practices like Reiki, which involves working with subtle body energy to restore balance and calm. This modality is not permissible within the framework of psychotherapy.
No Diagnosis: Coaching does not require or involve a clinical diagnosis. Sessions are not eligible for insurance reimbursement.
Spiritual Orientation: Coaching allows me to incorporate more of my spiritual perspective and practices into sessions. This might include energy work, mindfulness, or discussions about one’s spiritual path.
For those seeking personal growth, spiritual exploration, or alternative healing practices, holistic coaching offers an opportunity to go beyond traditional mental health frameworks.
A Note About Reiki
You might be wondering, what exactly is Reiki? Reiki is a healing practice that originated in Japan, where a practitioner uses their hands to hover over or gently touch a client’s body, working with the client’s life energy (“Qi”). This practice helps rebalance and calm the client’s energy, addressing the subtle body to restore harmony and promote healing. Reiki is a powerful tool for those seeking energetic and spiritual alignment.
Walking the Path Together
Whether I’m working as a psychotherapist or a holistic coach, my approach remains rooted in the belief that each person possesses everything they need within themselves. My role is to act as a guide and witness, helping clients reconnect with their innate wisdom and “Buddha nature”—the essence of who they truly are beneath the layers of stress and limiting beliefs.
This is the work of awakening to our greatness. It’s a journey, and it’s completely possible. Sometimes we just need a little help remembering our true selves. Whether you’re seeking the clinical structure of psychotherapy or the expansive possibilities of holistic coaching, the path to healing and transformation is uniquely your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which approach is right for me?
If you’re experiencing significant mental health challenges, psychotherapy may be the best starting point. If you’re seeking personal growth, spiritual exploration, or alternative healing practices, coaching could be a better fit. We can discuss your needs in a consultation to help you decide.
Can I transition from psychotherapy to coaching (or vice versa)?
Ethical guidelines prevent me from working with the same client in both roles at the same time. If you’re receiving coaching and decide to transition to therapy, we can end the coaching relationship and begin therapy. However, if we’ve started a therapeutic relationship, I cannot work with you as a coach due to social work licensing regulations. These rules ensure the integrity and safety of the therapeutic process.
What should I expect in a Reiki session?
During a Reiki session, you’ll lie down fully clothed while I use gentle hand placements or hovering motions to work with your energy field. Clients often report feeling deeply relaxed, calm, and balanced.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
If you’re curious about how psychotherapy or holistic coaching could support you, I invite you to schedule a free consultation. Together, we can explore the best path forward for your unique needs and goals. Your healing journey awaits!
