Both life coaching and therapy are psychologically based careers, however their differences lie in the focus on the sessions with clients as well as the objectives of the sessions.
A therapist focuses on an individual’s thought patterns and behaviors, often revisiting past trauma and working to heal and understand the effect of their past on their current mental health.
Life coaches focus more on current problems in a person’s life, working to help the person understand their behavior and what changes need to occur to overcome their issues. They may touch on past experiences and trauma but will not explore it as in depth as a mental health therapist.
Additionally, therapists are trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders through therapeutic mental health practices. Life coaches are not able to diagnose or treat mental health disorders but may refer them to someone who can if necessary.