The Importance of Clarity in Coaching vs. Counseling | Client Care

A few years ago in Bangkok, I founded Integrated Wellbeing For You, recognizing that there isn’t a single solution that works for everyone in every situation. In therapeutic models, this is known as Person-Centered and Eclectic Psychotherapy—an approach that adapts to the individual rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all method.

Recently, I worked with a client and realized I had overlooked a crucial step—clearly outlining the differences between coaching and counseling early in the intake process. Your unique circumstances may have shaped who you are today, but they do not define you. The same power you’ve used to make unhealthy decisions can be harnessed to make healthy, empowering choices.

That realization is at the core of Integrated Wellbeing—growth through intentional self-awareness and action. And thus, shaping the rapport early on is key for client care.

After the session, I took time to reflect. Why was I not fully prepared? The answer became clear: Despite all my credentials and convictions, I hadn’t explained the integrated approach thoroughly enough. This article is the result of that reflection.

My Background and Philosophy

I am a Certified NLP Practitioner, Timeline Therapist, Life Coach, and Certified Acceptance and Commitment Therapist (ACT). While I have extensive training in counseling, ACT, and NLP from accredited associations and have long been an advocate of transformational and transpersonal wellness, I am not a licensed psychologist. I coined the phrase Transformpersonal©2025 to represent an evolution of transpersonal wellness—a holistic approach to self-improvement and growth.

The Integrated Wellbeing Approach

At Integrated Wellbeing, we blend traditional counseling methods with alternative techniques to form a person-centered, integrated model that encourages active participation. By developing sustainable habits over time, you can experience meaningful progress while minimizing setbacks.

However, this approach requires engagement. It is not designed for passive participation or reliance on quick-fix solutions like, although they have value and are meaningful, positive thinking or vision boards. Expect a direct yet compassionate approach that challenges and inspires you.

The Power of Radical Honesty

Radical honesty (Blanton, B.) and personal growth require deep self-reflection and active participation. If you truly want change, you must be willing to challenge your beliefs, values, and habits. You cannot remain the same today and expect a different life tomorrow. Transformation requires intentional, proactive, and sustained effort. When you truly understand yourself, you will intuitively know the next steps to take.

Differences Between Coaching and Counseling

While coaching and counseling share similarities, they differ in keyways. At Integrated Wellbeing, we use a hybrid approach tailored to each client’s needs. To fully appreciate this method, let’s first outline the major distinctions between coaching and counseling.

1. Past vs. Future Focus

• Counseling focuses on understanding, resolving, and healing emotional trauma and pain from the past.

• Coaching is future-oriented, helping you identify goals, leverage personal strengths, and take action.

2. Mental Health Treatment

• Psychotherapists treat mental illness, whereas coaches do not.

• If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or self-destructive behavior, it’s essential to work with a licensed therapist. However, coaching can be a valuable complementary tool alongside therapy.

3. Nature of the Relationship

• Counselors help you process emotions, develop insights, and heal from past experiences.

• Coaches act as thinking partners, providing guidance, accountability, and goal-oriented support.

4. Training and Accreditation

• Counselors require advanced degrees and licensing to practice.

• Coaches are not legally required to have certifications, though many pursue accredited training.

5. Framework and Approach

• Counseling is often unstructured, and client led.

• Coaching typically follows a structured, action-oriented model focused on measurable progress.

  
  

The Integrated Wellbeing Model

Integrative therapy blends techniques from multiple therapeutic orientations to create a tailored approach for each individual. By understanding the distinctions between coaching and counseling, we can create a holistic framework that adapts to your evolving needs.

At times, we may use a counseling model to explore habits, patterns, beliefs, and values. These insights can then be applied to a coaching model to establish and achieve your goals. This combined approach ensures comprehensive support, guidance, and empowerment in your personal growth journey.

Informed Consent: Ensuring Alignment

From here on in, I will state with more accuracy and less conviction that…” Before beginning our work together, it’s essential to establish clarity and agreement on the Integrated Wellbeing approach.”

References

Blanton, B. (1996). Radical honesty: How to transform your life by telling the truth. Sparrowhawk Publications.

Cherry, K. (2024, March 24). What is integrative therapy? Definition, types, techniques, and efficacy. Verywell Mind.com https://www.verywellmind.com

Indeed Editorial Team. (2024, August 16). Difference between psychologists and psychotherapists? Retrieved & Adapted January 2025, from https://www.indeed.com

SelectPsychology.co.uk. (2022, August 22). 5 differences between coaching and counselling. Retrieved & Adapted January 2025, from https://www.selectpsychology.co.uk