In today’s wellness-focused world, you’ve likely seen titles like “wellness coach,” “life coach,” and “licensed therapist” floating around, but how do you know what these terms mean?

Whether you’re navigating stress, seeking support for mental health concerns, or simply trying to improve your overall well-being, it’s important to understand the key differences between a wellness coach and a licensed clinical psychologist or licensed mental health counselor or social worker. While both may help you make positive changes in your life, their training, legal responsibilities, and accountability differ significantly.

Education and Credentials

Licensed Clinical Therapists (Psychologists-LCPs, LCPCs, LCSWs, LPCs, etc.):
These professionals have advanced degrees, usually a doctoral or master’s degree in psychology, counseling, or social work, and are required to complete thousands of supervised clinical hours, pass rigorous state licensing exams, and uphold professional ethics set by a licensing board.

Wellness Coaches:
Coaches may complete certification programs (some more reputable than others), but there is no standardized training requirement, and no license or official oversight body in most cases. Anyone can call themselves a coach without formal mental health training, clinical supervision, or accountability to a governing body.

What They Treat

Licensed Clinical Therapists:
Therapists are trained and legally authorized to diagnose and treat mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more. They provide clinical treatment grounded in evidence-based methods.

Wellness Coaches:
Coaches focus on non-clinical goals like productivity, wellness habits, or motivation. They do not treat mental illness and should not attempt to address trauma, mental health disorders, or emotional crises.

Risks of Seeing a Coach for Mental Health Issues

This is where things can get serious. Because coaches are not licensed, there is no regulatory body to report them to if they cause harm or practice unethically. If a coach gives damaging advice, violates your privacy, or crosses boundaries, you have little to no legal or professional recourse.

Some coaches may unknowingly attempt to treat trauma, anxiety, or depression, issues that require clinical expertise. This can worsen symptoms, delay proper treatment, or create further harm. While many coaches mean well, their lack of clinical training and accountability is a major risk when dealing with anything beyond surface-level personal growth goals.

By contrast, licensed therapists are legally accountable to a state board, required to follow strict ethical guidelines, and trained to recognize when a client needs a different level of care. This can make a big difference in safety, especially if you’re vulnerable or struggling.

Confidentiality and Ethics

Licensed Therapists:
Therapists are legally bound by HIPAA and must protect your personal health information. They’re also trained to manage sensitive topics like trauma, grief, and abuse with care and professionalism.

Coaches:
Unless they voluntarily follow ethical codes from coaching organizations, coaches are not required to maintain confidentiality. They are not legally accountable in the same way a licensed professional is.

Insurance and Reimbursement

Therapists:
Licensed therapy may be covered by insurance or eligible for reimbursement via superbill. Many therapists also accept FSAs/HSAs.

Coaches:
Coaching is almost always self-pay, and insurance will not reimburse for it. Some employers may cover coaching through wellness stipends.

Who Should You See?

• If you’re experiencing emotional distress, mental health symptoms, or past trauma, it’s essential to see a licensed therapist.
  
• If you’re feeling stable and simply want support reaching a wellness or lifestyle goal, a coach might be helpful, as long as you understand their limitations.
  

If you’re unsure, many therapists offer free consultations to help determine whether therapy is appropriate, or to refer you elsewhere if needed.

Wellness coaches and therapists may seem similar on the surface, but the differences in training, ethics, and accountability are significant. If you’re thinking about working with a coach, ask about their training, boundaries, and whether they refer out for mental health concerns. 

If you’re looking for evidence-based, licensed care, our team at Birchwood Clinic in Chicago is here to help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and get matched with a provider who’s qualified, compassionate, and committed to your well-being. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, Aetna, and Anthem. We offer in-person therapy or virtual therapy in over 40 states. Call, email, or book online to get started.