| Coaching | Therapy |
| •Assumes the clients is highly-functional | •Assumes the client needs healing |
| •Roots in business and personal growth venues | •Roots in medicine, psychiatry |
| •Works to motivate people to a higher level of functioning | •Works with people to achieve self-understanding and emotional healing |
| •Focuses on actions and the future; goal-orientation | •Focuses on feelings and past events, past-orientation |
| •Focuses on solving problems | •Explores the root of problems |
| •Works with the conscious mind | •Works to bring the unconscious into consciousness |
| •Works for solutions to overcome barriers, learn new skills and implement effective choices | •Works for internal resolution of pain and to let go of old patterns |
Source: Hayden, C. J., and Whitworth, L. “Distinctions Between Coaching and Therapy.” International Association of Personal and Professional Coaches Newsletter, October 1995.
