Coaching vs. Consulting — Which Do You Need Right Now?
How do I know?
If you're considering support in your work or business, you might be asking:
"Do I need a coach or a consultant?"
It's a great question — and one I hear often. The truth is, both coaching and consulting can be powerful depending on what you're looking for. In this post, I’ll walk through the differences, how to know what fits your current needs, and how to choose a path that moves you forward with clarity and intention.
1. What’s the Difference, Really?
Coaching is about you — your inner clarity, your goals, your patterns, your growth. It's a collaborative process focused on uncovering insight and expanding your capacity to lead and live meaningfully.
Consulting is about the work — systems, structure, strategy. It’s hands-on guidance to help your organization run more smoothly, effectively, and in alignment with your values.
2. What Coaching Might Look Like
Working through a leadership transition
Feeling stuck in your direction or purpose
Navigating burnout or over-responsibility
Wanting support that includes both clarity and compassion
As an IFS-informed coach, I help clients tune into different parts of themselves and lead from a centered, grounded place.
3. What Consulting Might Look Like
You’re a small business owner trying to scale
Your team or systems feel chaotic
You’re unsure how to make your values operational
You want clarity and support from someone who’s been in the COO seat
I offer fractional COO and strategy consulting for mission-driven founders and leaders who want real change — minus the corporate noise.
4. You Might Even Need Both
It’s not always either/or. Many of my clients move between coaching and consulting depending on what’s needed. We can always start with a conversation and figure it out together.
Wherever you are, support should feel like a relief — not another decision fatigue moment.
Curious which path makes sense for you? Let’s talk.
Or learn more about Coaching and Consulting to get a sense of what’s possible