Coaching is not

Mentoring

Mentoring is passing on one’s own experience and knowledge. Coaching requires no experience or knowledge on what this client would like to be coached on. Often it is more beneficial for the client as it encourages them to explain things in a little more detail than would normally be required. This often results in the client finding the solution that has previously evaded them.

Consulting

Consultants use their experience and training to provide their professional/educated answer. Coaches never provide the answer, they facilitate the client finding their own solution.

Counselling

Counselling is working with the client to explore their previous experience and problems that may be causing a current situation. Coaching focuses more on the future goal to change the current situation. They work together on the journey ahead, rather than reviewing the path we have left behind.

Key Similarities

All areas work on supporting the client to grow, finding solutions to problems and working together to achieve a goal.