How is coaching different from a ...?

Consultant:

A consultant usually is a specialist in a given area. They are hired to give advice and provide solutions. A consultant usually works with a client to solve a particular problem. Once the problem is solved the consultant leaves. The consultant usually doesn't get involved with areas outside of their specialty.

Coaching uses a more holistic approach. With the client, the coach examines the situation, creates a plan of action, and works side by side with the client to resolve the issue. The coach does not have to be an expert in the client's business. The client is the expert. The coach collaborates with the client to create a solution using the client's knowledge and answers.

The coach does not have the answers; they have the questions that lead to the client finding their own answers.

Therapist:

A therapist typically works with a dysfunctional person to get them to functional. A coach works with a functional person to get them to exceptional.

Therapists typically work with people who need help becoming emotionally healthy. They often deal with past issues and how to overcome them.

A coach works with functional people to move them to exceptional levels. Coaching does not rely on past issues for achieving growth, but on goals for the future. Coaching is action oriented. The focus is on where the client is, where they want to be, and how to get them there.

There is some confusion between coaching and therapy. My sense about this is, because therapy is evolving, many therapists now incorporate coaching skills into their therapy. This is fine. Therapist can coach. Coaches do not do therapy.

The way I know I am doing therapy is if the client is working in the past, if the client is stuck and can't seem to move forward, or if there is an additional problem like drugs or alcohol, more than likely I would be doing something other than coaching. Consequently, if a client is exhibiting any of these symptoms I will usually recommend a client consider seeking help from someone who is licensed to practice therapy. Part of being a good coach is knowing when not to coach.

Clients can use the services of a therapist and a coach at the same time.

Counselor:

While a counselor provides information and expertise, the relationship is normally hierarchical, perhaps even authoritarian. A coaching relationship is not hierarchical, the client and the coach partner to create a better future for the client.

Mentor:

Mentoring is a relationship that is established with someone who is an expert in their field. The mentor is usually older and more experienced than the mentee. The mentor bestows their knowledge and wisdom to the mentee. The mentee looks up to the mentor and seeks guidance and advice from the mentor.

A coaching relationship is a partnership where the coach walks side by side with the client. The coach supports the client in drawing on his or her own wisdom and following their inner guidance.