One of the questions that we get asked as an ICF Coach Training provider is about comparing coaching to counselling. And rightly so! These two disciplines share commonalities although they are different in their approach and focus. This blog post aims to explore some of the nuances between the two highlighting aspects that you need to think about if you’re thinking of becoming a coach. First things first…
It is unfair to compare coaching and counselling holistically. That’s because within coaching and counselling there’s various ways how to coach or counsel. Within both counselling and coaching, there’s a number of approaches to consider. For instance, in Counselling, you may encounter psychoanalytic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or person-centered therapy. In coaching, you’ll find various modalities such as cognitive behavioural coaching, performance coaching or brief-solutions based coaching. Each modality within each profession brings its unique tools to address diverse needs and objectives.
So bear that in mind as you explore this that are differences within each profession. But as a starting point many will agree that…
Counselling can actively delve more in past experiences whilst Coaching focuses on the present and the future. Once again depending on the type of counselling, in general counsellors are more equipped in working with the client’s past than coaches. That in turn means that…
Counsellors might work more actively on healing emotional wounds. Both professions will help you to dig deeper with clients however it can be argued that in counselling your history, addressing trauma or unresolved issues could become more prominent in the work that you do. Which in turn means that…
Coaches help you move forward more than look backwards. A coach serves as your GPS or compass for the future. They assist you in exploring what’s getting in the way but also how you can take action and move forward. Coaches can help you in setting specific goals, honing your skills, and unlocking your potential. It’s a forward-focused approach, guiding you to chart a path towards personal and professional success.
Coaching is frequently used for career advancement, personal development, and the achievement of specific life goals. It helps you develop the skills and strategies necessary to reach new goals in your life.
This means that rather than viewing Coaching and Counselling as competing forces…
Consider the synergy that Coaching and Counselling can create. Conselling can support the foundational work of emotional healing, helping you manage and work through any psychological distress, upon which coaching can build. In this way they work hand in hand to support your holistic growth and transformation. So in conclusion…
Want to Become an Accredited ICF Coach?
That’s great! But please don’t get confused by all the jargon. We are here to help you with your Certification.
Our Level 1 and 2 Diplomas in Integrative Coaching are delivered online, flexibly over a number of evenings and weekends. The Level 1 Diploma covers the fundamentals of coaching and also frameworks such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Coaching approaches to coaching.
We help you develop your self awareness and build your own framework of working with clients in line with the ICF Competencies and Ethics.

Coaches help you move forward more than look backwards. A coach serves as your GPS or compass for the future. They assist you in exploring what’s getting in the way but also how you can take action and move forward. Coaches can help you in setting specific goals, honing your skills, and unlocking your potential. It’s a forward-focused approach, guiding you to chart a path towards personal and professional success.
Coaching is frequently used for career advancement, personal development, and the achievement of specific life goals. It helps you develop the skills and strategies necessary to reach new goals in your life.
This means that rather than viewing Coaching and Counselling as competing forces…
Consider the synergy that Coaching and Counselling can create. Conselling can support the foundational work of emotional healing, helping you manage and work through any psychological distress, upon which coaching can build. In this way they work hand in hand to support your holistic growth and transformation. So in conclusion…