How does coaching differ from psychotherapy or marriage counseling? Here is a brief comparison, to help you choose the approach that’s right for you:

PROBLEM-FOCUSED VS. SOLUTION-FOCUSED

Psychotherapy is a problem-oriented approach that diagnoses and treats mental and emotional illness by helping a person gain insights into dysfunctional patterns, and master skills for more functional living. Coaching is a solution-oriented approach that works with otherwise healthy people who desire higher functioning or excellence in a specific area.

LONG-TERM VS. SHORT-TERM

Psychotherapy focuses on the past, present and future, helping a person resolve past traumas, reveal and heal suppressed emotions, evaluate and change core beliefs and modify dysfunctional life patterns. It is process-oriented, and the client and therapist may work together for months or even years, addressing multiple facets of the client’s behavior and personality. Coaching is short-term (one session to several weeks or months) and results-oriented, focusing on the present and the future, providing the client with the tools and support to achieve specific goals.

PHYSICIAN, PSYCHOTHERAPIST OR COACH – HOW TO CHOOSE?

To contrast these approaches, consider an obese man who wants to lose weight and get in shape. Would he benefit more from seeing a doctor, to run diagnostic tests and prescribe medication to curb his appetite or adjust his metabolism? A psychologist, to analyze the emotional causes of his overeating? Or a coach, to create a diet and exercise plan, and support him in achieving his weight and fitness goals? Sexual concerns, like weight problems, can involve the body, mind and emotions, and may benefit from multiple approaches.

HOW WE WORK TOGETHER

Our first session is an assessment, to identify your goals and create a personalized coaching plan to meet your needs and budget. Just as a fitness coach may employ multiple strategies for success, I utilize a variety of creative tools, customized to fit your learning style and comfort zone. Lessons may include physical and mental re-patterning exercises, meditation and relaxation techniques, creative visualization, hypnosis, “home-play” assignments, audio or video media and more.
I am committed to supporting your success and self-empowerment every step of the way!

PHONE DR. SUSAN AT 602-918-0220 TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION