I am often asked, particularly by those new to coaching: what’s the difference between coaching and other ”helping” roles such as mentoring, counselling, consulting?

 

With credit to Sheila Boysen* for a great analogy - learning to ride a bike - which I've adapted here.

 

🚲 A counsellor or therapist could help you discover what is holding you back from riding the bike. They may consider your early experiences and may work with you on any healing that may be required.

 

🚲 A consultant could bring along their expertise to suggest what they feel is the optimal solution for you: which bike to buy, what training method to adopt etc.

 

🚲 A mentor could share their experiences, wisdom and the lessons they learned along their own bike riding journey.

 

🚲 The coach will help you draw on your resources, strengths and skills to find the best way for you to get on the bicycle. They will encourage, acknowledge, and support you until you feel comfortable enough to do it alone.

 

What other analogies work for you?

 

*Reference: Boysen, S. (2018) Introduction to Professional and Executive Coaching. Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing.