---
title: What's the difference between therapy and coaching?
description: Coaching, therapy, and consulting are similar practices but have different goals.
image: https://katherinegyolai.com/hubfs/toa-heftiba-09SxeOdtlPE-unsplash-1.jpg
---

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 Nov 17, 2024 10:49:08 PM

# What's the difference between therapy and coaching?

![Picture of Katherine Gyolai](https://katherinegyolai.com/hs-fs/hubfs/1C5A9897%20copy.jpg?width=50&name=1C5A9897%20copy.jpg) [Katherine Gyolai](https://katherinegyolai.com/blog/author/katherine-gyolai)

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| You've certainly heard of therapy and maybe even tried it yourself (highly recommend—it's a life-changer!). But coaching is a bit of a newcomer and deserves a little spotlight. And while therapy is similar to coaching in many ways, the goals of each are different. Therapy takes a deep dive into your *past*. It's a longer journey that addresses diagnosable issues, past traumas, family dynamics, or personal and relational challenges. The goal? Healing 🙏 and relief 😅. Coaching, on the other hand, is all about the *here* and *now*, and *looking ahead*. Whether short- or long-term, it focuses on boosting self-awareness, professional growth, enhancing relationships, and breaking through any barriers that leave you feeling stuck. The aim? A clearer sense of purpose 🔎 and reaching your goals 🏆. In a nutshell, therapy is about healing from the past, while coaching is about growing toward the future. So where does consulting fit in? Consultants give advice. They have expertise in a particular area, which makes them qualified to advise in that area. Coaches sometimes blend consulting and coaching when working with clients, but they are different practices. P.S. If you're in the *healing* phase of life, I know some incredible therapists. Message me if you'd like their names and info. |
| --- |

[consulting](https://katherinegyolai.com/blog/tag/consulting), [relief](https://katherinegyolai.com/blog/tag/relief), [goals](https://katherinegyolai.com/blog/tag/goals), [therapy](https://katherinegyolai.com/blog/tag/therapy), [purpose](https://katherinegyolai.com/blog/tag/purpose)

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