When we think about seeking support, a question often arises: do I need counselling or life coaching? The terms are often used interchangeably, but there are important differences between them — and understanding these can help you choose the right path.
Counselling: understanding and working through
Counselling often turns toward what weighs on us — past experiences, repeating patterns, emotional distress. The aim is a deeper understanding of yourself, working through what holds you back, and easing the burden you carry. In counselling with Transactional Analysis, we often explore the life script — the unconscious decisions we made in childhood.
Coaching: orienting forward
Life coaching is more oriented toward the future and toward goals. It focuses on where you want to go, which values you want to live by, and how to unlock your potential. Coaching is an excellent choice when you feel stable enough but want clarity, momentum, and concrete steps forward.
How do I know which I need?
A simple guide: if something from the past or present weighs on you emotionally and you would like to understand and work through it, counselling is probably the right choice. If you feel well but want to grow, reach goals, or make an important decision, coaching will serve you better.
In practice the two often intertwine. That is exactly why I combine both approaches in my work and adapt them to you — you do not have to decide in advance. In an introductory conversation we find out together what would help you most right now.