It is not. While some life coaches do have therapeutic skills, it’s important to remember that a coach is anyone who has mastered a skill and can coach others toward the same. A life coach can therefore be a Master of Finance, fitness guru or even a mother. Therapists on the other hand are by definition – mental health professionals – who undergo rigorous training in psychology, human behavior, mental health, sociology and other social science dynamics. Therapists are also certified by a board in their respective countries or states to practice. I am not a therapist, but I have been licensed in the state of Maryland (U.S.) and in England (U.K.) to carry out generalist social work practice. This basically means that I am trained in individual and group counselling techniques, psychopathology, family and consumer sciences, and theories of psychology and sociology. I am qualified to advise on same and to provide due care for all populations.