Coaching vs. Therapy: Which Path is Right for You?

What is Clinical Therapy?

On the front page of my pocket size Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5th edition (a handbook used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental disorders) there is a question I wrote while in my master’s program at Hunter College. Does it cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, and other important areas of functioning? If the answer is yes, then clinical therapy is probably the appropriate place to start.

Clinical therapy is an evidence-based approach that focuses on emotional healing, mental health concerns, and a deeper self-exploration of past and present patterns of thought and behavior. A licensed clinician helps individuals, or couples, work through challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues that significantly impact their everyday lives.  It is not a process of fixing something that is broken, because we do not believe you are broken, but rather a process of increasing self-awareness, dispelling shame and growing confidence, and trust. By identifying and exploring painful habitual patterns of behavior you can intentionally develop new patterns that are more aligned with your goals. Clinical therapy can incorporate elements of coaching, but begins by addressing underlying issues that cause significant distress. Therapy sessions are confidential and follow established ethical standards set forth by the National Association of Social Workers.

What is Coaching?

Coaching is a forward-focused, goal-oriented process designed to help individuals achieve specific outcomes in their personal or professional lives. Our coaches provide motivation, structure, and accountability to help clients develop confidence, overcome obstacles, and take action toward meaningful change. Unlike therapy, coaching does not diagnose or treat mental health conditions but instead emphasizes growth, performance, and achieving desired results. Coaching can also be highly effective for groups and organizations, helping teams enhance collaboration, leadership skills, and overall workplace well-being.

Coaching is often seen as more socially acceptable than therapy due to the lingering stigma around mental health. Many may hesitate to seek therapy because it is associated with having a "problem" or mental illness, whereas coaching is widely recognized as a proactive step toward success and personal development. Seeking support in the form of clinical therapy does not make you weak, nor is coaching only for the “successful”. We believe it is just a matter of where you are in your personal journey at this given moment and we will meet you there.

At Middle Way Wellness, all our coaching services are provided by licensed professionals. This ensures that clients receive the highest level of expertise, ethical standards, and an integrated approach to both mental well-being and personal growth.

The Importance of Receiving Services from Licensed Professionals

Engaging with licensed professionals, whether in therapy or coaching, is crucial for ensuring quality and ethical standards. Licensure indicates that the practitioner has met specific education, training, and competency requirements, providing assurance of their qualifications.

For therapy, working with a licensed professional is essential, as they are trained to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. In coaching, while certification is not always mandatory, choosing a licensed professional can offer added confidence in the coach's expertise and adherence to evidenced based practices and ethical guidelines.

At Middle Way Wellness, our licensed professionals are committed to delivering the highest standard of care regardless of the services you are seeking.

Can Coaching and Therapy Work Together?

Absolutely! At Middle Way Wellness, we integrate coaching and therapy to offer a holistic approach to personal transformation. Some clients begin with therapy to address emotional challenges and later transition to coaching as they focus on achieving future goals. Others may benefit from a hybrid approach that blends deep self-exploration with practical action steps. Additionally, coaching can be applied in a group or organizational setting, fostering team synergy, leadership development, and a healthier work environment.

Middle Way Wellness is here to support your journey—whether through therapy, coaching, or a combination of both. Our mission is to help you find balance, confidence, and a sense of purpose in your life.

Interested in learning more? Contact us today to explore how we can support your growth and well-being.

- Andrew