Life Coach vs Therapy?

[michiko]

I am wondering if any of you have experiences receiving life coach. I am thinking about getting some support but trying to debate..

[SladesMommy]

I've had some experiences with both.

For me the therapy helped deal with some underlying issues that I knew I had- being abandoned by both my birthparents, my dad dying, being sexually assaulted, etc.

But even with therapy (i haven't been in a couple years), I can get in a "funk" where it seems pointless to even try to suceed at anything cause I'm sure I'll fail. A life coach give you the motivation and tools to get out there and be the best you can be and suceed.

[michiko]

Originally Posted by SladesMommy

I've had some experiences with both.

For me the therapy helped deal with some underlying issues that I knew I had- being abandoned by both my birthparents, my dad dying, being sexually assaulted, etc.

But even with therapy (i haven't been in a couple years), I can get in a "funk" where it seems pointless to even try to suceed at anything cause I'm sure I'll fail. A life coach give you the motivation and tools to get out there and be the best you can be and suceed.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience... It is hard to debate.. because I don't think I can afford both right now.

Anyone else had experience with life coach?

[romeos mommy]

i think a life coach is a more positive thing. therapy makes me feel sad.

[Tiggerwit]

I think it depends on your need. Therapy will help you deal with unresolved issues, learn how to cope with certain things your are dealing with and teach you how to handle them and the feelings, medication if necessary. A life coach is more of a motivational option to get you to get our there and take charge. A go get 'em kind of thing. I think they do 2 different things.

If you have insurance call them. Therapy is probably covered.

[2Parises]

I use a life coach...it is provided as a benefit through work (and encouraged). At first I thought the idea was a bit silly...but I can not imagine not having someone to bounce idea with and the support I get in making career choice.

I would say they are very different and it would depend on what you are dealing with as to which you should choose.

~Lorene

[Ashley V]

I have a life coach and see him about once a week. I feel I can be more open with him and we talk about everyday things and deal with my underlying issues like being diagnosed with bipolar disorder and being abandoned by my father.

[michiko]

I have been looking online... I am surprised that most of the life coach doesn't take insurance.... Many don't really say the exact cost until the consultation..

Oh thanks everyone for replies... it is very helpful.

[mblab]

Sort of being in the field, I'm getting my masters in clinical social work with a background in psychology, I can give you a bit more info about therapy.

Just like some others have said, therapy is a venue to work on unresolved issues OR feelings. Generally speaking, a good therapist will be the catalyst to you working on things you feel need change. It can be difficult, but it can also be very helpful. (They don't call it therapeutic for nothing!) Unfortunately, there are bad therapists just as there are good ones, and even with a good therapist there may be times you feel a bit down, because it is a bit of work, to work through your issues. Therapy is for a person that really wants to change/resolve things and is willing to work to accomplish that.

From what I'd assume of the little I know about Life Coaches, they're a bit similar to therapy with some big differences as well. While it's my understanding that a life coach is a bit more ... "upbeat" as they're a motivational presence, it too requires you to consciously make changes. I think it's seen as a new kind of treatment, that many might not respect, but I'm sure there are lots of people that would swear by it.

My best suggestion: figure out what it is that you want (as far as the issues you feel are important enough to seek some kind of professional help). And once you decide you want help, whatever kind and whoever you seek it with, check to see if your insurance or your employer will cover it. (As almost all insurances will cover a limited about of mental health/therapy.)

Hope I was of some help and I hope you get things resolved! Best of luck!

[Sloan]

I'm so glad that you asked this question. I have often thought of getting a life coach and now I have heard some good advice. Anyone able to share the approximate cost of a weekly visit?

[Ashley V]

My life coach charges $80.