Counseling vs. Coaching: Understanding the Difference and Choosing the Right Path for Your Relationships

Terry Porter is an Executive Life Coach. Working with clients to clarify and pursue their life dreams.

In today’s culture, more people than ever are reaching out for support in their personal and relational lives—and that’s a good thing. But with so many options available, it can be confusing to know whether you need a counselor or a coach.

While both professions serve critical roles in helping individuals and couples thrive, they are not the same. Each has a distinct purpose, method, and outcome. Let’s take a moment to explore the differences—and why coaching might be the best next step for your relationships.

Counseling: Healing the Past

Counseling is often centered around healing. Licensed therapists are trained to diagnose and treat mental health conditions, help clients process trauma, and work through unresolved pain from the past. Counselors tend to look backward—to understand the “why” behind patterns and behaviors. They may walk clients through grief, anxiety, depression, or childhood wounds with great care and skill.

Counseling is essential when someone is in emotional distress, facing psychological disorders, or needing to process a painful event. If that’s you—there’s no shame in seeking that help. It’s a wise and courageous step.

Coaching: Moving You Forward

On the other hand, coaching is about forward motion. As a relationship coach, my role isn’t to diagnose or dwell on the past. My role is to help you get unstuck, cast vision for your future, and create actionable steps to get there.

Think of coaching like a GPS: you tell me where you want to go, and I help guide you there with clarity, accountability, and strategic planning. I ask powerful questions. I challenge assumptions. I help you clarify your values, define success in your relationships, and build the confidence to take the next step. My focus is on growth, action, and transformation.

What Makes My Coaching Unique

Terry & Jen Porter

I don’t just coach from experience—I coach from deep training.

I earned my Master’s in Executive and Life Coaching through a program founded by Dr. John Townsend, best-selling author of Boundaries and People Fuel. My training at Concordia University Irvine was rigorous, biblically grounded, and built on proven coaching methodology. It combined clinical insight with real-world application—giving me the tools to help you move from confusion to clarity, from pain to purpose, and from stuck to thriving.

Whether we’re working one-on-one or in a couples session, my approach is rooted in Scripture, emotionally honest, and action-oriented. I believe God designed us for healthy, thriving relationships—and I love helping my clients move toward that reality.

Does Coaching Really Work? Let the Numbers Speak

Yes, coaching works—and the return on investment is impressive. According to a study by the International Coaching Federation (ICF):

• 86% of companies reported they recouped their coaching investment.
• 70% of clients improved work performance and relationships through coaching.
• 80% of people who receive coaching report increased self-confidence.
• 73% experience improved personal relationships.

Coaching isn’t just about feeling better—it’s about functioning better in every area of your life.

Is Relationship Coaching Right for You?

While I coach a wide variety of individuals, my ideal relationship coaching clients often fall into one of these categories:

• Couples who want to grow together and stop fighting the same fights.
• Soon-to-be-married couples who want a strong foundation (I’m also a certified SYMBIS facilitator).
• Struggling marriages that feel stuck, emotionally disconnected, or lonely.
• Men and women navigating a relationship crisis who need clarity and a plan.
• College grads and young professionals seeking wisdom for future life & relationships.
• Faith-driven individuals who want a biblical framework for emotional and relational growth.

If you’re ready to do the work, I’m ready to help you move forward.

Let’s Talk

You don’t need to stay stuck. Coaching is a powerful tool to help you take the next step, build stronger relationships, and live with greater purpose.

If you’re curious about coaching or wondering whether it’s the right time, let’s talk. I offer a free consultation so you can ask questions, explore the process, and discover whether coaching is a fit.

Click here to schedule your free consultation—and take that next courageous step.

Your relationships are worth the investment. Let’s get to work.