Occupational Therapy vs. coaching

While there are overlaps between Occupational Therapy and coaching, with OTs being able to integrate coaching approaches, and both being person-centred, goal-oriented, and strengths-based, there are notable differences between the two. The OT perspective is “How can I support you to participate in daily life more effectively and in ways that align with your values”, rooted in health, participation, and function, whereas coaches tend to approach with a personal growth, mindset, and exploration of potential focus. You can see how the two could overlap. A key difference is OTs are a regulated health profession focusing on evidence-based interventions.

I have chosen to offer coaching because it enables me to serve worldwide, which would otherwise not be possible as an occupational therapist due to worldwide legislation.

I gladly wear both hats, acknowledging the differences and overlap between the two. Here are some key differences in more detail:

Coaching

• Helps people set and achieve goals, often related to personal development, career, health, or relationships.

• Focuses on forward movement and unlocking potential.

• Emphasises self-reflection, accountability, and action planning.

Occupational Therapy

• A regulated health profession focused on enabling participation in daily life (self-care, work, leisure, community).

• Addresses barriers caused by illness, disability, injury, or neurodivergence.

• Focuses on function, adaptation, and evidence-based interventions.

Training & Regulation

• Coaching

• Training can range from short courses to advanced certifications (e.g., ICF accreditation).

• Not a regulated health profession. Anyone can call themselves a coach, though credibility varies with training/experience.

• Occupational Therapy

• Requires a university degree, supervised placements, and national registration (in Australia: with AHPRA).

• Bound by strict professional and ethical standards, ongoing professional development, and evidence-based practice.

Methods & Tools

• Coaching

• Guided questioning, motivational interviewing, values clarification, goal-setting frameworks, accountability check-ins.

• Typically does not treat medical/functional conditions.

• Occupational Therapy

• Assessments (sensory, functional, cognitive, psychosocial).

• Interventions such as skill development, environmental modification, adaptive equipment, sensory regulation strategies, graded activity programs.

• Can directly link to healthcare systems (e.g., NDIS, rehab, hospitals).