What’s the difference between coaching and counseling?
While there are many differences between coaching and counseling, a fundamental difference is the level of education required and the level of government regulation. There is virtually no education required or government regulation regarding coaching. This is of great concern to coaches and coaching organizations with a strong sense of social justice like Jody and Southern Coaching. At this time, while there are a few states exploring some semblance of regulating life coaching, most states are allowing coaches to roam freely and unregulated. A 14-year-old high school dropout could call himself a life coach and be accurate. There are no licenses you can get for coaching, only certifications.
Are you licensed?
There is no such thing as a coaching license. I am, however, trained and certified through Life Purpose Institute and am in the final stages of getting my Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credentials through the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Unlike many life coaches, I understand the therapeutic process because I also have my masters in social work, but chose to pursue life coaching instead of my social work license.