Blurred Boundaries: Therapy vs. Coaching
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You Can't Just Call It Coaching—Here's What Therapists Need to Know
You're seeing clients virtually across state lines and calling it "coaching" instead of therapy. You have two separate websites—one for therapy, one for coaching—and think that protects you. You avoid talking about trauma or childhood and assume that you're in the clear.
None of that actually protects you.
Most therapists don't realize they're operating in legal and ethical gray areas until it's too late—until a client files a complaint, a licensing board starts asking questions, or they realize they have no framework to defend what they're doing.
This training will change that.
In 90 minutes, you'll gain the clarity and confidence you need to understand the real boundaries between therapy and coaching—and how to navigate them properly as a licensed professional.
WHAT YOU'LL WALK AWAY WITH:
- The real story of "Sarah"—a licensed therapist who thought she was being careful but was actually practicing across state lines without proper standing (and what happened next)
- Assessment questions you can use immediately to determine: Is this therapy or coaching?
- Documentation strategies that create clear boundaries and legal protection
- Understanding of what licensing boards actually look for when investigating complaints
- Confidence that you know how to do this properly—or clarity that you need more training before you start
WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
- Licensed therapists who are currently "coaching" clients (formally or informally)
- Clinicians considering adding coaching services to their practice
- Therapists who work with out-of-state "coaching" clients and aren't sure if they're crossing lines
- Any mental health professional who wants to understand the legal and ethical landscape of coaching
ABOUT THE PRESENTER:
Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby is a licensed psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist, and Board Certified Coach (BCC). She is the founder and clinical director of Growing Self Counseling & Coaching, a large, vibrant group practice serving both therapy and coaching clients around the world for over 10 years.
Dr. Bobby obtained her BCC credential in 2012 and has since trained over 100 licensed therapists in coaching competencies. She is an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and has extensive experience helping clinicians navigate the complex ethical and legal landscape of offering both therapy and coaching services. She is the creator of the only NBCC-accredited Coaching Certification program designed exclusively for licensed therapists.
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT:
This program awards 1.5 NBCC continuing education clock hours.
Growing Self, Inc. has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7405. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Growing Self, Inc. is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. If you need special accommodations or have questions, please contact us. [email protected] or 720.370.1800. www.growingself.com
*While ACEP credits are accepted in 47 US States, please check with your specific professional state licensing board to confirm that ACEP accredited programs are approved, as criteria varies by state, and by licensing board. If your state does not accept ACEP credits, please reach out to us. We can provide you with documentation that you can submit to your state licensing board for review. They may grant the credits on a case-by-case basis.
