Coaching vs. Therapy: What’s the Difference, and Which One Does My Teen Need?

Introduction: Life coaching and therapy are often considered to be interchangeable, but this is not the case. The two specialties co-exist in the mental well-being space and can work in conjunction, however, the services offered and credentials required to practice are distinctly different. This article explains the differences between coaching and therapy, and explains how […]
Coaching vs. Therapy

Coaching Vs. Therapy Coaches and therapists share a common goal: to help their clients improve well-being and achieve their personal and professional goals. While their approaches often cater to different needs, it’s not uncommon for an individual to work with both a coach and a therapist for various aspects of their lives. The choice between […]
YCI Youth Coaching Competencies

An Evidence-Based, ICF-Aligned Framework At the Youth Coaching Institute, we prepare coaches to support young people using an evidence-based, developmentally responsive coaching approach. Our Youth Coaching Competencies are adapted from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) Core Competencies and integrated with our theory, model, and coaching approach. This framework reflects our commitment to: Ethical, professional coaching […]
How Mental Health Coaching Supports Teens with Anxiety

Mental health challenges among teenagers have reached crisis levels. Anxiety disorders and depression are now the two most common mental health conditions in the United States, with 20% of adolescents ages 12-17 reporting symptoms of anxiety in the last two weeks, and 18% reporting symptoms of depression during the same timeframe (Centers for Disease Control […]
Harnessing Academic Coaching to Foster Self-Regulated Learning

As an educator, coach, or parent you know that some students seem to navigate their academic journey with ease while others face significant hurdles. The difference often lies not in their inherent ability but in their capacity for self-regulated learning (SRL). This set of skills allows students to take charge of their own learning process. […]
What Evidence-Based Coaching Is and Why It Works

Evidence-based coaching represents a transformative approach that combines the art of human connection with the science of behavioral change. Unlike traditional coaching methods that can rely solely on intuition or common techniques, this methodology integrates research-backed strategies with professional expertise to create meaningful, lasting outcomes for clients. For educators and youth-serving professionals, understanding evidence-based coaching […]
Why Coaches Are Essential in the Age of AI

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the workplace at an unprecedented pace. While many professions face uncertainty, one group of professionals stands uniquely positioned to thrive: coaches, educators, and health professionals. These human-centered roles aren’t just surviving the AI revolution—they’re becoming more valuable than ever. As AI systems become increasingly sophisticated, they excel at data processing, pattern […]
When to Guide vs. When to Step Back: Mastering the Art of Coaching Balance

Coaching can feel like walking a tightrope. On one side, you have students who need your knowledge and expertise. On the other, you know that the most powerful learning happens when students discover solutions themselves. This tension between sharing what you know and letting students find their own way is one of the biggest challenges […]
How to Help a Depressed Teen

Supporting teens through depression is incredibly important and delicate work. Adolescence is a time of significant emotional, psychological, and social growth, so when depression enters the picture, it can feel overwhelming for both the teen and those who care for them. This guide is designed to provide you with actionable knowledge about supporting teens who […]
ADHD Coaching for Teens and Young Adults

Navigating life with ADHD can be incredibly challenging, especially for teens and young adults who are working to establish productive habits, achieve academic or work success, and build meaningful relationships. With approximately 9.8% of US children and adolescents being diagnosed with ADHD (roughly 6 million individuals), it’s clear that providing effective support is vital. One […]