Mental health coaching is a support-based process that helps you manage life struggles and build practical tools to better your wellbeing. Unlike traditional therapy, it provides a flexible, goal-oriented approach toward emotional resilience and better stress management. A certified mental health coach gives you personalised care to help you cope with everyday stress, set and meet realistic goals, and build more positive habits.
The ease of text-based sessions allows you to incorporate this coaching seamlessly into your life, delivering emotional support you can access anytime, anywhere. In this post, you’ll read about what mental health coaching entails, how it is different from therapy and ways in which it can really elevate your overall mental health.
Table of Contents
Understanding Mental Health Coaching
Who is a Mental Health Coach?
A mental health coach is a trained professional who helps those experiencing daily anxiety and life challenges. Coaches work with you to set achievable goals and develop clear steps to reach them.
Unlike therapists, they’re not delving into your past; they’re more interested in your current challenges and future aspirations. They are your personal accountability partner, leading you through a journey of personalised plans designed to help you make positive behavioural and emotional changes.
What Issues Can Mental Health Coaches Help With?
Mental health coaches provide support around a range of everyday problems, such as stress management and anxiety, improving communication and developing healthy habits. They assist with major life transitions, including changing jobs, moving homes or ending relationships. Coaches provide realistic stress coping skills for more effective stress relief and also support you emotionally for as long as you need.
Common Techniques and Approaches Used by Mental Health Coaches
Here are a few of the effective methods that mental health coaches employ:
- Motivational interviewing to boost your determination
- Setting SMART goals to create clear targets
- Teaching mindfulness exercises and distress tolerance skills
- Using CBT and ACT techniques to promote positive thinking
- Encouraging self-awareness techniques, such as journaling, to assess progress
Mental Health Coach vs. Therapist: Key Differences
Educational and Training Differences
In the UK, therapists usually hold advanced qualifications (Master’s or Doctorates) and are members of professional bodies such as the BACP or UKCP. They offer a clinical diagnosis and treatment options for mental illness issues.
Meanwhile, mental health coaches have varying training and certification. They obtain coaching certifications through certified programs that put a greater emphasis on hands-on, practical application for better mental wellness.
| Aspect | Therapist | Mental Health Coach |
| Education | Master’s or Doctoral Degree | Certified Coaching Programs |
| Registration | Regulated (BACP, UKCP) | Certified but not clinically regulated |
| Treatment Focus | Clinical mental health disorders | Present-focused practical support |
Scope of Practice and Limitations
Therapists work with severe psychological issues and clinical disorders such as major depression or severe anxiety. The coaches deal with manageable concerns, practical life changes and health and wellness enhancement. A coach can complement therapy by providing regular check-ins and reinforcing learned strategies, but is not qualified to diagnose or prescribe medication.
Goals and Outcomes of Sessions
Therapy tends to look at uncovering issues or problems in the past, while coaching is always future-oriented with a focus on action. Coaches focus more on creating tools and techniques (i.e. wellbeing strategies) and action plans to nourish your state of well-being, while therapists focus more on emotional healing, identifying and resolving the underlying problems.
Common Myths About Mental Health Coaches
Myth #1: Mental Health Coaches Can’t Address Serious Mental Health Issues
Though mental health coaches don’t diagnose disorders, they offer support for navigating their symptoms. For instance, coaches are well able to help clients with some low-to-moderate levels of anxiety or stress, with powerful coping strategies and distress management.
Myth #2: Mental Health Coaches Lack Professional Training
Mental health coaches are rigorously trained and certified. Leading programs include hundreds of supervised training hours and certification by well-respected coaching organisations, guaranteeing professionalism and skill.
Myth #3: Mental Health Coaching Is One-Size-Fits-All
Good coaching is always personal. Coaches adapt their approach to fit the client’s specific situation and support culturally competent and culturally responsive care. Personalised plans are continuously revised based on progress and evolving needs.
Myth #4: Therapy Is Always the Better Option
Coaching can be more suitable for certain individuals. It offers flexible, accessible solutions through text-based sessions and practical self-guided resources. Many find coaching ideal for developing everyday habits, improving sleep, and achieving personal goals without the clinical aspects of therapy.
Read more: What Is a Wellbeing Coach? A Complete Guide
Who Can Benefit from Mental Health Coaching?
Signs You Might Benefit from Coaching
You might find mental health coaching helpful if:
- Everyday tasks often overwhelm you
- You need structured support to stay accountable to your goals
- Traditional therapy seems too intensive for your current needs
- You prefer flexible, convenient support options
Specific Groups That Often Find Coaching Beneficial
Several groups commonly benefit from mental health coaching:
- Professionals managing high-stress careers
- Students facing academic pressures
- Individuals undergoing significant life transitions
- People seeking practical stress relief methods
How to Know if Mental Health Coaching Is Right for You
Consider mental health coaching if you:
- Have clear goals but struggle with execution
- Want to build lasting habits for better emotional wellbeing
- Seek a secure and confidential way to enhance your daily life
- Prefer a structured yet flexible approach to improving your mental wellness
Read more: What Is Health and Wellbeing Coaching and Why Is It Essential
What to Expect from a Mental Health Coaching Session
Typical Structure of a Coaching Session
Mental health coaching sessions usually start by reviewing your progress and identifying any challenges. Coaches guide you to set new objectives and develop a clear action plan. Practical tasks or homework may be assigned, which might include mindful practices, journaling, or other activities aimed at achieving your goals effectively.
How Long Does Coaching Usually Last?
Most coaching sessions last around 30–60 minutes. Full coaching programs generally range from 4 weeks to several months, based on your specific needs. This adaptability ensures you receive the level of help you need to make effective, long-term behavioural changes.
Virtual vs. In-Person Sessions
- Virtual sessions offer schedule flexibility, convenience, and are ideal for busy individuals.
- In-person sessions provide direct interaction, body language cues, and might be better for deeper connection-building.
Research indicates virtual coaching’s popularity is rapidly growing. A UK-based study by CIPD (2022) revealed that virtual coaching increased by 67% since 2019, highlighting its convenience and effectiveness in modern lifestyles.
Read more: What Does a Nutrition Coach Do? Services, Benefits, and Impact on Your Health
How to Find the Right Mental Health Coach
Choosing the best mental health coach is a mindful process and comprises a few simple, yet significant steps.
- Goal setting is crucial. It shows you clearly what exactly you are working towards. Defining your goals in advance gives your coach the information they need to craft a customised and personalised plan of care. Choose whether you want support with stress management, improving communication, or getting through big life changes.
- Always confirm a coach’s training and certification. Reliable certified mental health professionals have verifiable credentials from accredited bodies like the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). Proper qualifications ensure that your coach is well-trained in methods like motivational interviewing, CBT, and mindfulness exercises.
1. Identify Your Goals and Needs
Clearly identifying your goals is crucial. Consider whether your main concerns are improving emotional wellbeing, enhancing health and wellness, or developing effective coping skills. Clearly defined objectives make it simpler to find a coach who fits your needs precisely.
2. Verify Training, Certifications, and Credentials
Check certifications carefully to ensure the highest standards. Coach qualifications vary, so ensure your chosen coach holds recognised certifications or qualifications, such as from NBHWC or a relevant psychology-related degree. Confirm the coach’s expertise through official websites or directories.
3. Consider Specialisation and Experience
A coach specialising in your particular challenge can significantly benefit your progress. For example, someone struggling with sleep problems should seek a coach experienced in sleep improvement techniques, while another dealing with anxiety might prefer an expert in anxiety management.
4. Check Reviews and Seek Referrals
Online reviews and personal recommendations give valuable insights. Websites, social media, and personal networks are excellent resources. Authentic experiences shared by past clients can reveal the effectiveness of a coach’s practical strategies and their ability to foster meaningful behavioural changes.
5. Questions to Ask a Potential Mental Health Coach
Ask the following questions during initial meetings:
- What experience do you have helping clients like me?
- What methods or approaches do you prefer?
- How do you ensure sessions are secure and confidential?
- Can you describe your typical action plan structure?
- How flexible are your sessions (schedule flexibility)?
Practical Tips to Enhance Your Mental Wellbeing
Enhancing mental wellness doesn’t stop with coaching sessions. Daily habits and proactive measures significantly boost your overall health.
8 Mindfulness Strategies for Managing Anxiety
- Regular breathing exercises
- Mindful meditation (10-15 minutes daily)
- Journaling for self-reflection
- Short walks to clear your mind
- Guided visualisation practices
- Listening to calming music
- Grounding techniques (focusing on surroundings)
- Scheduling short breaks during busy days
How to Reduce Stress Naturally
- Maintain consistent healthy routines like balanced meals and regular sleep schedules
- Physical exercise for natural stress relief
- Limit caffeine and sugar intake
- Practice relaxation methods such as yoga or gentle stretching regularly
Effective Techniques to Improve Sleep
- Set a consistent bedtime and wake-up time daily
- Avoid screens at least 30 minutes before bed
- Keep your sleeping environment calm, cool, and dark
- Utilise gentle pre-sleep relaxation techniques like mindfulness or reading
Breaking Bad Habits (e.g., Nail-Biting, Stress Eating)
To overcome these habits:
- Identify triggers using self-awareness techniques
- Replace harmful habits with healthier behaviours (e.g., chewing gum instead of nail-biting)
- Keep a habit tracker for accountability
- Celebrate small successes to reinforce positive changes
Final Thoughts: Transforming Your Life with Mental Health Coaching
To summarise, mental health coaching is a strength-based approach to dealing with life’s everyday struggles in a clear, confident and emotionally resilient way. Throughout this article, we explored the core purpose of coaching, how coaching differs from therapy and the goal-oriented, tailored care that aims to assist you with managing your everyday anxiety, limiting your stress, and building resilience to cope and live a more intentional life. From finding the perfect coach to practical tools including mindfulness techniques, SMART goals and self-reflection, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to make decisions and take action.
At Wellbeing Tribez, we specialise in providing culturally competent, trauma-informed, heart-led mental health coaching and holistic wellness support. Founded by sisters Cheryl and Chantell, our platform empowers individuals, families, and communities—especially Black and minoritised groups—through real, relatable, and community-rooted care. Our expert network includes ICF-certified coaches, award-winning counsellors, and dedicated wellbeing professionals like:
- Funmi Oni of Ataraxia Coaching, with 30+ years of experience in ADHD, career, and personal development
- Inside My Art Project, offering art therapy sessions for trauma healing and self-expression
- Nigel Jordan, an integrative counsellor for long-term healing in Black communities
- Richie, a fitness coach blending physical and mental health transformation
- Esther, a family wellbeing coach helping households stay healthy, active, and connected
At Wellbeing Tribez, you’re never just a number—you’re family. Whether you’re beginning your personal development journey or seeking practical wellness strategies for everyday life, we’re here to walk beside you.
Ready to get started? Book your first session and begin the transformation today.
“Funmi is a brilliant coach. Her friendly demeanor and open communication style makes you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings. I surprised myself and became very vulnerable during our first session. Her voice is just so warm and understanding that it allows you to dig deep and open up without feeling judged.” – Client Testimonial.
Let your wellness journey begin—with purpose, with people who care, and with Wellbeing Tribez.
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