What is a life coach?

A life coach is an individual that is educated and trained in a specialized mixture of therapy and consulting. They work closely with their clients to help them manage certain aspects of their lives (career, relationships, weight loss) and assist them in reaching certain goals. Life coaching shouldn’t be considered therapy since it focuses more on future goals, behaviors, and accomplishments rather than examining behaviors and emotions in the client’s past. Additionally, life coaching does not explore or diagnose any potential mental illness or dysfunction.

Life coaches are not regulated by any governing body but there are several training programs across the country that will help potential candidates. Associations like the International Coach Federation and the Certified Coaches Federation have credential programs that will help individuals get the specialized training needed to become a life coach.