What Should You Do When Anxiety Strikes? Therapist or Coach?
It’s a question we all ask ourselves at some point in our lives: when anxiety strikes, should you work with a therapist or a coach? While neither option is wrong, there are some key differences to consider when making the decision. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each so that you can make an informed decision about what’s best for you.
Therapy vs. Coaching
When it comes to therapy and coaching, there are distinct differences in terms of the goals of each profession and how they treat anxiety. Therapy focuses on addressing underlying issues and healing existing wounds through talk therapy and other forms of psychological treatment. On the other hand, coaching is focused on helping clients become more successful by setting goals and developing strategies to reach them.
Therapy is recommended for individuals who have deep-rooted issues that need to be worked through in order to move forward with their lives. A therapist will take the time to get to the root cause of your anxiety and help you understand why it is occurring. You will also learn tools to manage your emotions in healthy ways so that you don't become overwhelmed by them.
Coaches help you find clarity about what's causing your anxiety and then develop action plans for moving forward with your life despite it. A coach can help you set realistic goals and provide structure around achieving those goals, which can help quell feelings of overwhelm or hopelessness caused by anxiety. Coaches can also provide support as you work towards overcoming your anxieties in a positive way without judgment or criticism.
“As a women who has anxiety love the practical, simple tools I learn in Anxiety University, which is group coaching for women with anxiety. I now have tools I cause in the moment I am freaked out.”
At the end of the day, deciding between working with a therapist or a coach comes down to personal preference—there is no one-size-fits-all answer here! Both professionals offer valuable services that can help individuals dealing with anxiety learn how to cope better and find peace within themselves. If you're still unsure which route might be best for you, it might be helpful to consult both types of professionals in order to gain different perspectives on how best to address your particular situation. Whatever route you choose, remember that taking care of yourself is key—and seeking professional help is an important first step!