Also a 20 smtg. newbie with a question...

[AlisonC]

I just read writer-girl's posting and can totally relate on the job thing!! I studied to be a teacher and realized during student teaching and a year of subbing that it truly isn't for me. I've always wanted to do something along the lines of counseling, but am intrigued with this coaching thing. Can anyone (a coach/counsleor out there) tell me what the difference is between counseling and coaching? What is the difference in training or is it very similar? Could I use a counseling degree to be a life-coach?

The reason I ask is I am in the process of applying to grad. school for a College Counseling Masters. Ideally I want to counsel or coach teens and young adults, and combine that with my youth ministry experience (I just got a job in youth ministry, so my experience is a work in progress). Thanks for your time:)

[Nancy B]

Hi Alison. Welcome to the Boards!

There is a difference between Coaching and Counseling.

Counseling
Mental health issues
Handling past issues
Handling problems
Insight and understanding
Counselor expertise

Coaching
Growth issues
Dealing with present and future
Working with goals
Taking action
Client expertise

I tell potential clients that if they feel like they're drowning they need a counselor or therapist. If they're ready to be an Olympic swimmer and live a rich life they want a coach.

Both are important careers. Training in one can help the other, but training in one is not a replacement for training in the other. You want to be trained in the field you are going into.

There's lots of information if you do a google search. A place to find out more about the coaching community is at www.coachfederation.org.

If you're thinking about coaching attending Cheryl's Coaching Weekend the first weekend of August is a great way to see what it's all about.

At this time, there are many more jobs in counseling. Most coaches are self employed, some work for corporations.

If you have additional questions feel free to post them here or privately e-mail me by clicking on the "pm" key below this message.