Beyond the Buzzword: Understanding Coaching

One of the most common questions I hear in discovery calls is: “So, what exactly is coaching?”

It’s a fair question. Coaching is still misunderstood by many people, often confused with therapy, counseling, or consulting. Let’s clear that up.

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What Coaching Isn’t

• Coaching is not therapy. We don’t dive into the past to diagnose or treat mental health issues.

• Coaching is not counseling. We’re not focused on unpacking emotions in a clinical setting.

• Coaching is not consulting. We don’t give you step-by-step instructions or do the work for you.

Each of these approaches has great value — but coaching is a different kind of partnership.

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What Coaching Is

Think of yourself as the driver of a very capable, powerful car. Maybe you’re hesitant to get behind the wheel, or you’re unsure of the road ahead.

• A coach is not your driver — they don’t take the wheel for you.

• A coach is not a driving instructor — they won’t lecture you on technique.

• A coach is not your therapist — they won’t analyze your fear of driving.

  
  

Instead, a coach sits beside you in the passenger seat. They encourage you to start the engine, help you notice blind spots, and support you as you choose the direction. They may ask powerful questions that help you shift perspective, but ultimately, you are in control of the car.

Coaching is about movement. It’s about bridging the gap between where you are today and where you want to go. A good coach helps you clarify what success looks like, design a path forward, and stay accountable along the way.

And importantly, coaching complements the work of therapists, counselors, and consultants. Each plays a different role in a person’s growth journey, and sometimes people benefit from more than one kind of support.

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Why Coaching Matters to Me

My own journey would be very different if I hadn’t had the company of great coaches along the way. Even my decision to become a coach was inspired by the impact coaching had on my life.

Coaches helped me see possibilities I couldn’t see alone, challenged me when I held myself back, and supported me as I moved forward with clarity and confidence. Their guidance didn’t give me the answers, but it helped me find my own.

This is why I believe so strongly in the power of coaching: because I’ve lived it.

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How to Find the Right Coach

Many people wonder: “Should I look for a coach who shares my background or expertise?”

While trust is essential, I’ve seen powerful coaching relationships flourish even when coach and client have little in common. Sometimes, a coach from a different field can offer the most valuable perspective. What matters most is not similarity, but the qualities your coach brings to the relationship.

Great coaches:

• Listen deeply and without judgment

• Ask questions that spark new insights

• Provide honest feedback in a supportive way

• Help you clarify your goals and next steps

• Hold you accountable while cheering you on

• Respect your autonomy while walking alongside you

  
  

When these elements come together, the relationship becomes a safe yet challenging space where growth happens naturally.

Ready to Take the Wheel?

If you’re curious about how coaching could support your journey, I’d love to connect. Book a discovery call and let’s explore what’s possible when you’re in the driver’s seat — with a trusted partner riding alongside you.