Coaching vs. Therapy

Which is the better option for me?

The answer to this common question depends on what you’re hoping to achieve, but understanding the key differences between therapy and health coaching can make this decision much simpler.

Therapy is generally focused on the past. Its primary goal is to help people process experiences, work through trauma, and get to a stable, functional place — essentially helping you survive and reach your base level of mental and emotional health. Therapy provides a safe space to explore your history, understand patterns, and develop coping strategies to feel grounded and supported.

Health coaching, on the other hand, is forward-looking. It’s focused on the present and future — helping you identify your goals, align your habits with your vision, and create actionable steps to thrive, not just survive. Coaching is about unlocking potential: it’s for people who are ready to move beyond baseline functionality and design the life they truly want. It’s about building sustainable habits, creating clarity around your priorities, and taking intentional steps to feel empowered, energized, and fully engaged in your life.

While coaching can be incredibly beneficial for those ready to focus on growth, it’s not a replacement for therapy. If you are struggling with unresolved trauma, mental health challenges, or are not yet at a baseline of stability, therapy is the essential first step. Coaching works best when you already have that foundation and are ready to expand into thriving.

In short:

Therapy: focuses on the past, getting you to survival, and building a strong foundation.

Coaching: focuses on the present and future, helping you thrive, grow, and go beyond your base level.

For many people, therapy and coaching can actually complement each other. Therapy ensures you have the stability and self-understanding needed to move forward, while coaching provides the structure and accountability to help you take inspired action and reach your goals.

If you’re ready to stop just surviving and start thriving, health coaching can provide the tools, clarity, and guidance to make that transformation possible.