Therapy vs. Coaching: Exploring the Differences
When it comes to personal growth, therapy and coaching often get talked about in the same breath—but they’re actually pretty different. Both are powerful tools for change, just in their own ways. Knowing the difference can help you figure out what kind of support you need most right now.
And because growth isn’t one-size-fits-all, we’re also going to touch on sober coaching—a unique and uplifting support system for anyone navigating life without alcohol or other substances.
Let’s break it down.
Therapy
Therapy is about going inward. It's a safe space to process emotions, heal old wounds, and work through mental health challenges. A good therapist helps you make sense of the past—whether that’s childhood experiences, trauma, or patterns that are hard to shake. They’re trained in evidence-based methods like CBT, DBT, or psychoanalysis, depending on what you need. Think of therapy as building a strong emotional foundation so you can move forward feeling lighter, clearer, and more grounded.
Life Coaching
Coaching is about what’s ahead, not what’s behind.
It’s focused on where you’re going. A life coach helps you set goals, move through challenges, and take real steps forward. Whether you’re thinking about a career change, a personal shift, or just want to feel more energized and intentional in your life, a coach is there to support your momentum.
A great coach doesn’t tell you what to do. They help you clear the noise, trust yourself, and make the right moves for you.
Sober Coaching
Sober coaching blends the best of coaching with a deep understanding of the sobriety journey. A sober coach offers real-time support as you navigate life, helping you stay motivated, deal with cravings, and build a life that’s exciting and meaningful without substances. They’re not just focused on what you’re giving up—they’re all about what you’re gaining. Think of a sober coach as someone who’s walking right alongside you, offering encouragement, accountability, and a reminder that sobriety doesn’t have to be boring—it can actually be the beginning of something incredible.
Finding the Right Fit
Therapy helps heal your past. Coaching helps build your future.
It’s about what you need most right now. Sometimes it’s one. Sometimes it’s both. The important thing is knowing you’re not alone, and there’s real support out there no matter where you’re starting from.
Here’s to your growth, your healing, and the life you’re creating.
Interested in working with a coach? Click the link below to book a complimentary 30-min session with Hayley Matches, Certified Coach, specializing in wellness and alcohol-free living.
