Coaching or Counseling? Where to go when you need help.

For many, the workplace harbors a strong aversion to displaying vulnerability, weakness, or signaling that you need help. An unfortunate side effect is that many don’t seek help when it is actually readily available (and often desperately needed). Besides a still-too-prevalent stigma for seeking help, many don’t know where to go to find help for emotional and mental health. So which is right for you and your situation?

We found this article to provide a great exploration of the differences and benefits of coaching and counseling
https://positivepsychology.com/coaching-mentoring-counseling/

When I was facing some significant challenges, I sought a coach who was a wonderful person but was unable to help me tackle some of the underlying emotional issues that were impacting how I was showing up. Alternatively, when I sought out a therapist, I found them unable to really connect with my challenges because of a lack of contextual awareness and understanding. I really needed a blend of coach and therapist.

We’ve found an incredibly powerful combination of therapy and coaching can help professionals navigate through even the toughest times and work most effectively towards their professional goals.

One sign that you’re working with the right person is if they acknowledge the limits of their abilities. A coach that dabbles in therapy is technically breaking the law - they need to know when to refer a client to a therapist. A therapist needs to recognize when their client’s needs outpace their ability and can therefore recommend a coach.

The most important step, though, is to actually seek help and connect with someone when you need it.

We’d love to hear your experiences and point of view - share your thoughts in the comments.