What is the difference between Coaching and Counseling? 

There are more complicated answers I could give you but the simplest answer is that mental health counseling involves diagnosing and treating a mental health disorder.  A coaching relationship is designed to help one adjust thought patterns and set goals to more fully become the person he or she wants to be.

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How do I know if I need/want Coaching or Counseling? 

If you are suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or another diagnosed mental health condition you want to begin with a counseling relationship.  If the things you struggle with are subclinical or non-clinical (fancy medical terms that mean a doctor wouldn't give you a diagnosis for it) but you feel you are stuck or struggling to be the person you want to be, the time may be right to get a coach.

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Can I do counseling and coaching?

Many counselors are also skilled at coaching and can work with you on mental health and self-development goals.  There are some situations where an individual may find their counseling relationship helpful but desire coaching in a specific area, as well.  If this is the case, I recommend you speak openly with your counselor about working with a coach and the specific goals you wish to achieve with your coach.  Decide, with your counselor, if you want your counselor and coach to be in communication with one another.

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Will my insurance cover coaching services?

Since we do not diagnose and treat a mental health condition in coaching, health insurance will not cover these services.

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How often would I have coaching sessions?

This is something you and your coach decide together.  It is possible to have a successful one-off coaching session.  However, most people find it helpful to have at least one follow up meeting to monitor homework and goals. Some clients prefer a long term relationship with their coach. At the beginning of the coaching relationship, meetings would be more frequent and then taper off to monthly or quarterly check-ins.  Others are looking for a short term relationship to address a specific problem or goal.

 

What kind of topics are appropriate for coaching?

 Any issue or goal that does not require a physical or mental health diagnosis or treatment plan is appropriate for coaching.  Appropriate topics could include: career coaching, spiritual coaching, motivational coaching, value alignment coaching, coaching in interpersonal and communication skills, time management, physical/spiritual/emotional fitness, vision casting, life balance, or character development.

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You mention that coaching is appropriate for physical/spiritual/emotional fitness but not mental/physical illness.  What is the difference?

When we have a mental and/or physical illness, we see a licensed counselor or other medical professional.  Illness is damage that has already been done.  Fitness is what we do to keep us healthy.  Think of it as developing healthy habits.

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Why did you choose the name "Grace-Based Coaching"?

Grace. This word represents one of the most twisted and neglected doctrines of the Christian Church. I was raised in church, attained a Bachelor's Degree in Religion, held ministerial licenses in two different denominations, and served as church staff.  I should have the concept of grace down, right?  Wrong. After years serving on prayer lines, facilitating inner healing sessions, and mental health counseling, I am continually confounded by grace. 

The ability to accept grace and apply it to ourselves and others is one of the most underused and misunderstood concepts in our culture. Grace gives us the opportunity to realistically look at ourselves and where we fall short.  To see our growth edges without being swamped with shame.  A firm grasp of grace sets the stage for us to move forward and become our best self.