Life Coaching vs. Therapy and Counseling: Understanding the Key Differences

When seeking personal growth or emotional support, individuals often consider life coaching, therapy, or counseling. While these services share common goals of self-improvement, they differ significantly in approach, focus, and methodology. Therapy and counseling are designed to help individuals address past traumas, emotional distress, and mental health challenges. Licensed therapists use clinical methods to diagnose and treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, focusing on healing and emotional well-being. In contrast, life coaching is future-focused, emphasizing goal setting, personal development, and accountability rather than emotional healing.

Research highlights the unique benefits of life coaching for those seeking structured guidance and measurable progress. According to the International Coaching Federation (ICF), 80% of coaching clients report improved self-confidence, and 70% see enhanced work performance. Unlike therapy, which often involves deep emotional exploration and long-term treatment plans, life coaching employs action-oriented strategies to help individuals break through barriers and achieve personal or professional milestones efficiently.

Ultimately, choosing between life coaching and therapy depends on an individual’s needs. Therapy is best suited for those struggling with mental health issues, unresolved trauma, or emotional distress, while life coaching is ideal for individuals seeking motivation, strategic planning, and personal or professional growth. Both approaches offer valuable benefits, but understanding their differences ensures that individuals select the right path to achieve their desired transformation.

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Stephanie L. Herring

Executive Coach, HR & People Strategy Leader

With over 25 years of experience leading human resources, people, and culture strategy, Stephanie L. Herring is a dynamic force in the industry—an executive, coach, and trusted advisor committed to transforming workplace cultures and individual careers. As a subject matter expert in HR, business strategy, and leadership development, she has shaped the success of organizations nationwide, serving in executive roles such as Chief, Senior Vice President, and Director of Human Resources. Her work has spanned multiple industries, driving people-centric initiatives that bridge business goals with employee well-being.

Stephanie’s passion for people extends beyond boardrooms and HR strategy meetings. As the Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer of PeopleFirst Coaching & Consulting Solutions, she merges her corporate expertise with her lifelong dedication to coaching. Her firm was cultivated to empower individuals at every stage of life and career—whether navigating workplace challenges, overcoming toxicity in corporate environments, exploring entrepreneurship, or transitioning from college into the workforce.

A high achiever who believes in meeting people where they are, Stephanie’s coaching approach is grounded in authenticity, resilience, and actionable strategy. She has spent decades mentoring professionals and executives, guiding them toward clarity, confidence, and success on their own terms.

Stephanie holds degrees in Journalism Communications and Secondary Education. She is a Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR, SHRM-CP) and a Strategic HR Business Partner (sHRBP), recognized by the Human Resources Certification Institute, Society for Human Resources Management, and Human Capital Institute. Additionally, she is a Certified Life and Career Coach, blending structured career guidance with personal empowerment.

Her leadership and impact have earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of the Top Admired Women Leaders in Pittsburgh by Women We Admire and receiving a C-Suite Award from the Pittsburgh Business Times—an honor she was nominated for by the workforce she served.

Stephanie’s driving philosophy is simple yet powerful: #PeopleFirst. Whether coaching individuals or shaping corporate cultures, she remains steadfast in her mission—helping others take their next authentic step forward.