Q&A: Do You Need a Personal Coach?

By Barbara C. Bourassa

Q: How is a personal coach different from a therapist?

A: There are some areas where they overlap, such as handling fears or limiting beliefs, but for the most part they are pretty different. One of my former clients once used this analogy: Therapy is like taking antibiotics, but having a coach is like taking supplements. Therapy focuses on problems, and it's designed for people who need to heal or do restorative work. The coaching client, on the other hand, is already healthy, and instead wants to maximize their potential. Coaching assumes that clients are naturally creative, resourceful, and whole. Coaching focuses on the present and the actions the client is willing to take to move toward a desired future, whereas therapy is often focused on the past and moving away from pain.

Q: What, exactly, does a personal coach do, and how do they do it?

A: A coach is like a success partner. There is no cookie cutter approach to coaching, because every client is different. But I believe, in most cases, that the answers can be found within the client. I ask provocative questions like, What do you know to be true? What do you really want? A coach makes observations, sees patterns, and provides an outside, objective perspective. I listen, I ask questions, I help brainstorm actions or options, and I help people expand their thinking so they can see the full potential of situations as well as themselves. A coach is also an accountability partner. There is some aspect of holding people's feet to the fire, so to speak.

Q: What do the sessions cost, and does insurance cover it?

A: No, insurance does not cover coaching sessions. The national average cost is $400 per month, which might include three to four 45- to 60-minute phone sessions, email support, or brief conversations between sessions. Usually, the sessions are paid for on a retainer basis, meaning you pay ahead for the time in the coming month. A lot of coaching is done over the phone, unlike therapy, which is always done in person. In my case, I work with clients all over the U.S. Other options include individual coaching, partner coaching (for couples or business partners), or group coaching.

Q: What's the best way to find a personal coach of your own?

A: Coaching is an unregulated profession, and we like it that way, but because of that the public needs to be aware of the different levels of qualification. Someone looking for a coach should always ask where the coach did their training or whether they are certified through the ICF (www.coachfederation.org). The ICF has a referral service, or you could ask your friends or neighbors for recommendations. Also, I recommend speaking to at least three coaches. It's good to shop around, because everyone has a different motivational style, and you want someone who will bring out your best.

Q: Is there any other advice you would give to someone considering a coach?

A: The person should be motivated, and ready to do the work. Coaching is not about having a feel-good conversation each week. I really encourage people to be very clear about what they want from coaching. You need to have a compelling goal or vision, as it's a solid investment in time and money.