Often the term counselor and coach is interchanged and mixed up. This reflects the many overlaps between the two roles, but there are significant differences to highlight. In many countries, a career counselor is required to attain a higher degree in counseling or psychology before they can practice as a counselor. A counselor focuses on personal and emotional issues, and looks at the past to help identify a problem and find a resolution. The counselor strives to make the subject as comfortable as possible so that he can freely share his innermost feelings. Many a time, a counselor can be found in environments which help patients deal with mental or emotional problems. 

The role and responsibilities of the career coach are more focused.  Their job is to guide you through a short term job transition or a long term career transition. The career coach focuses on the future and your strengths in meeting your career goals. Sometimes, life and emotional issues may have significant contribution to this process, but is not the main focus. The coach is an active partner, focuses on action and is often an advisor. He wants to make you successful, and does this through a structured process.

In both there are strong similarities too which is understandable why the two are often mixed up. Both practice active listening and create a trusting and confidential relationship with you. They both use the same techniques in trying to understand and clarify problems or issues. Both adhere to a strong code of ethics and honor your inner values. In both cases of interaction, the patient/client has the answers, and these are usually derived thro the use of assessment instruments.   


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