The first evening at coaching school can be unsettling. The first surprise comes when students learn the role of a coach, as distinct from a consultant or a therapist. For many, they feel lost, stripped of their accumulated knowledge and expertise.

Here are some definitions to help you understand what the role of an ICF (International Coaching Federation) credentialed coach is:

Coach: A credentialed professional who partners with clients in a structured, ethical, and competency-based process to unlock awareness, action, and sustainable growth.

Consultant: An expert providing advice, solutions, or recommendations based on specialized knowledge in a particular field.

Therapist: A licensed professional who addresses psychological, emotional, or mental health issues, often focused on healing past trauma and resolving dysfunction.

In presenting the three definitions, it’s important to honor and respect each role. The key is to understand the difference and stay in the optimal lane to benefit the client. This can become even more confusing as a career coach because we integrate aspects of consulting and therapy into our work.

Let me be more specific. Many clients come to a career coach feeling anxious and discouraged. They may be stuck in a toxic or unrewarding job. This has real emotional consequences. A great career coach honors those feelings. If the client is severely distressed, then a referral to a therapist is warranted.

Additionally, career coaches offer expertise and information. They administer career assessments, assist with resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and teach job search strategies. The key is integrating coaching with consulting, so the client owns the process and is accountable for it.

If you have been thinking about becoming a career coach, this mini tutorial will help make your first day in class much easier. The next cohort of the Career Coach Entrepreneur Academy starts March 17, 2026 🍀🍀🍀

Please reach out to me directly to learn more about our program