Practicing What You Preach

Why Therapists and Coaches Need Coaching Too

Being a therapist or coach is like being a firefighter in an emotional wildfire. You’re always putting out someone else’s flames, but who’s there to douse yours? Ironically, while therapists and coaches are champions of self-improvement and empowerment for others, many shy away from investing in their own growth. Yes, even the best of us sometimes fall into the trap of “Do as I say, not as I do.”

The practice of coaching is not just for your clients: it’s for you too. The moment you embrace this, you unlock a world of growth, resilience, and excellence.

The Benefits of Having a Coach or Mentor as a Sounding Board

Having your own coach or mentor is like upgrading from a GPS to a live guide who knows all the shortcuts and hidden gems. They:

1. Provide Unfiltered Perspectives: Your mentor is the voice of reason when you’re caught up in your own narrative. They call out blind spots and help you see what you didn’t know you were missing.
2. Act as Accountability Partners: Coaching keeps you on track, ensuring you don’t just set goals but actually achieve them. It’s like having someone remind you to water your dreams before they wilt.
3. Offer Emotional Recalibration: Therapy and coaching work can be emotionally taxing. A coach becomes the person who asks, “How are you, really?” and means it.

How Coaching Enhances Your Ability to Serve Clients

Coaching doesn’t just make you better; it makes you exceptional. When you experience coaching firsthand, you:

• Walk the Talk: Imagine recommending a technique you’ve never tried yourself. Experiencing coaching builds authenticity, showing your clients you practice what you preach.
• Expand Your Toolbox: Coaching broadens your perspective, exposing you to approaches and strategies you might not have considered.
• Inspire Trust: Clients resonate more with professionals who are constantly evolving and willing to invest in themselves.

Finding the Right Coach for Your Needs

Not all coaches are created equal, and finding the right fit can feel like dating—it takes time, but it’s worth it. Here’s how:

1. Clarify Your Goals: Be specific about what you’re looking to achieve. Whether it’s scaling your practice, managing burnout, or honing a particular skill, know your “why.”
2. Do Your Homework: Check credentials, testimonials, and coaching styles. A good coach isn’t just a cheerleader; they’re someone who challenges you.
3. Test the Waters: Many coaches offer discovery sessions. Use this opportunity to gauge compatibility and ensure their approach aligns with your needs.

My Two Cents (And Then Some)

Coaching is the mirror every therapist and coach needs to hold up to themselves. It’s not just about levelling up. It’s about staying relevant, resilient, and real in a world that’s constantly evolving. Investing in your own coaching journey isn’t an indulgence; it’s a necessity.

So, my fellow healers and change-makers, it’s time to practice what you preach. 

Take that step, find your coach, and watch your own growth ripple into the lives of every client you touch.