Therapy or Coaching: How to Choose when struggling with Intimacy, Relationships, and Divorce

May 20, 2024

Image of couple fighting. Image of couple breaking up. Therapy vs. Coaching. Struggling with Intimacy, Relationships, and Divorce.

Therapy or Coaching: How to Choose when struggling with Intimacy, Relationships, and Divorce

Whether you need help after divorce or loss, struggling with anxiety while dating, or wanting to improve trust and intimacy in your relationship, both therapy and coaching can offer valuable guidance and assistance. However, understanding the difference between therapy and coaching - and knowing which one is right for you - can sometimes be confusing. I'll explore with you some key questions to ask yourself when deciding between therapy and coaching.

1. What Are My Goals?

One of the first questions to ask yourself is what you hope to achieve through therapy or coaching. Therapy typically focuses on healing past wounds, managing mental health issues, and addressing deep-rooted emotional issues such as trauma, anxiety, or depression. On the other hand, coaching is more future-oriented and goal-focused, helping clients identify their goals, overcome obstacles, and create actionable plans for personal or professional growth. Clarifying your goals can help you determine which approach aligns best with your needs.

2. Am I Dealing with Mental Health Issues?

If you're struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD, therapy may be the most appropriate choice. Licensed therapists are trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders using evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or psychodynamic therapy. Therapy provides a safe and supportive environment to explore and process complex emotions, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing and recovery.

3. Do I Need Support with Specific Challenges or Transitions?

If you're facing specific challenges or transitions in your life—such as career changes, relationship issues, or personal growth goals—coaching may be the right option for you. Coaches specialize in helping clients identify their strengths, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals in areas such as career development, relationship improvement, leadership skills, and personal development. Coaching sessions are typically more structured and action-oriented, focusing on practical strategies and accountability to help clients make progress towards their objectives.

4. What Type of Support Do I Prefer?

Consider your preferences when it comes to the type of support you're looking for. Therapy tends to be more introspective and focused on exploring emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in depth. Therapy sessions may involve discussing past experiences, uncovering underlying patterns, and processing difficult emotions. Coaching, on the other hand, is more collaborative and goal-oriented, with an emphasis on action, accountability, and forward momentum. Coaching sessions may involve setting specific goals, brainstorming solutions, changing those stories and thoughts and challenging those patterns and behaviors that are keeping you stuck, and implementing strategies to achieve desired outcomes.

5. Am I Ready to Invest in Myself?

Both therapy and coaching require a commitment of time, energy, and financial resources. Consider whether you're ready to invest in yourself, your relationship, and your personal growth journey. Therapy may involve attending weekly or bi-weekly sessions over an extended period of time, depending on the nature of your issues and treatment goals. Coaching typically involves shorter-term engagements, with clients often meeting with their coach on a weekly or bi-weekly basis for a set number of sessions. Reflect on your readiness to commit to the process and make the necessary investment in your well-being.

Deciding between therapy and coaching when struggling with dating, sex, and relationships is a personal decision that depends on your unique needs, goals, and preferences. By asking yourself these key questions and considering the differences between therapy and coaching, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your personal growth journey. Whether you choose therapy, coaching, or a combination of both, taking the first step towards seeking support is a powerful act of self-care and self-discovery. Trust yourself to make the right decision and remember that support is available to help you thrive on your path to personal growth and fulfillment.

If coaching is a good fit for you, apply for a Chemistry Call with Catherine to discover how I can help you with your dating, sex, and relationship goals.