What Does a Life Coach Do? (And How Is It Different From Therapy)
By Coach Marcy · October 20, 2026 · 5 min read
A life coach helps you get clear on what you want and take your next step. We look at where you are, where you want to go, and what is getting in the way. Then you choose one meaningful action and we check in on it. Coaching is about moving forward, and it is not the same as therapy.
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Key takeaways
- A coach helps you with direction, decisions and confidence going forward.
- A therapist is a licensed professional who treats mental health conditions. Coaching is not therapy.
- Good coaching has structure: honest questions, a clear next step and accountability.
- A free fit call is the easiest way to see if a coach is right for you.
What a life coach actually does
A life coach is a partner in your thinking. In my sessions I listen first, then I ask questions, including the uncomfortable ones. The goal is for you to hear yourself clearly, so you can decide what you really want.
Most sessions include three parts: talking through what is going on, looking at the patterns or beliefs underneath, and choosing something to reflect on or act on before we meet again.
What happens in a coaching session
- We get comfortable and talk about what brought you here.
- I listen to your story and ask about the decisions or struggles in front of you.
- We explore your perspective and the patterns behind it.
- You leave with one meaningful thing to reflect on or act on.
Between sessions, you might take notes, journal, notice your reactions or take one real step. The work continues in your everyday life.
Life coach vs therapist
A therapist is a licensed mental health professional. Therapy can help you heal, work through trauma and treat conditions like depression or anxiety. Coaching focuses on the present and the future: confidence, relationships, career choices and the life you want to build.
Coaching is not therapy and it does not replace it. Many people do both, and a good coach will tell you when something needs a licensed professional.
Life coach vs a friend or a mentor
A good friend gives you comfort and opinions. A mentor gives you advice from their own path. A coach gives you neither as the main event. A coach asks questions that help you find your own answers, and holds you to the steps you choose.
Who is life coaching for?
Coaching can help if you feel stuck, overwhelmed or unsure of your next step. I mainly work with women who feel lost, are questioning a relationship or a career, or want to make decisions with more confidence.
It works best if you are willing to be honest with yourself, look at other perspectives and do some work between sessions.
How to choose a life coach
Life coaching is not a licensed profession in California, so it is smart to ask questions before you commit.
- Ask about their training and certification.
- Ask what a session looks like and how they measure progress.
- Look for clear pricing and a written agreement.
- Notice how you feel. You should feel heard, not judged.
- Book a fit call. A good coach will offer one.
Quick answers
Is a life coach worth it?
It can be if you are ready to reflect honestly and take action. Coaching gives you structure, honest questions and accountability. It does not replace your own effort.
Do I need a certification to be a life coach?
Life coaching is not a licensed profession in California, so there is no state license. That is why it helps to ask any coach about their training. I am a certified life coach, trained through the Certified Life Coach Institute in Orange County.
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Come as you are. Tell me what is going on and we will see if coaching feels right for you. In person in Rancho Cucamonga, California, or online.
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About the author
Marcy Sanchez, Coach Marcy
Marcy Sanchez is a certified life coach, trained through the Certified Life Coach Institute in Orange County, California. She is also a mother, an entrepreneur and the co-host of the Talk Riches podcast. She coaches women in person in Rancho Cucamonga and online, and her message is simple: come as you are, become who you choose.
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Coaching is not therapy, counseling or medical advice. This article is for general information and does not replace a licensed professional.
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Coaching is not therapy, counseling, or medical advice, and it does not replace any of those. In an emergency, call 911. If you are struggling with your mental health, please contact a licensed professional, or call or text 988 any time.