Life
Coach

I began my career change journey with the help of a Life Coach.  In a profession that I was not enjoying, I had no idea which direction I wanted to go in or what my options were.  The process of coaching was so successful for me, I trained with The Coaches Training Institute to gain the basic skills needed to work in the profession.  I craved more knowledge and tools (and an internationally recognized credential) so I added M.S. and Ed.S. degrees in Professional Counseling and state licensure in TX and TN. 

 

Life Coaching continues to play an important role in my practice.  Both coaching and counseling help clients learn and use new ways of navigating life.  The distinction I draw between the two professions is coaching has a narrower focus - we may define goals, make a plan that make the most of a client's skills, provide accountability, as well as structure, encouragement and support.  Counseling can do all of that, as well as dealing with serious, deeper issues that may need therapy.  Serious mental or emotional problems (substance abuse, mood disorders, personality disorders) should only be delt with by an appropriate licensed mental health professional.