Looking for a Life Coach? Here Are Some Alternatives That Might Fit You Better

Sep 15

“Life coach” has become the go-to phrase when people are looking for guidance. And sure, life coaching has its place. But here’s the thing most people don’t know: not all coaching is created equal.

I’ll be blunt. Anyone can call themselves a life coach. No degree required. No oversight. Just a website and a few motivational posts, and they’re in business. Some are fantastic, but most? Not so much. That’s why it’s worth knowing your options—especially if you’re serious about growth.

Alternatives to a Life Coach

1. Performance Psychology Coaching
This is my lane. Think of it as coaching with a backbone of science. It’s about helping you thrive under pressure, build resilience, and stop burning out. Unlike life coaching, performance psychology is rooted in research from sports psychology, neuroscience, and behavior science. It’s for athletes, professionals, entrepreneurs—anyone in a high-stakes role who needs tools that actually work.

2. Therapy
If you’re dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or anything that feels clinical, therapy is your best bet. Therapists are licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. Coaching can feel therapeutic, but it’s not therapy. Knowing the difference matters.

3. Mentorship
Sometimes what you need isn’t a coach—it’s someone who’s walked the road ahead of you. A mentor gives perspective, guidance, and support from lived experience. Think of it as wisdom, not formal training.

4. Executive or Business Coaching
If your main focus is leadership, communication, or scaling a company, this path is more structured around business performance. Like life coaching, it’s an unregulated industry—but some coaches have deep corporate backgrounds that can make a difference.

5. Training Programs or Workshops
Maybe you don’t want one-on-one support right now. Group workshops or skills-based programs can give you the tools and community to start building momentum.

Why I’m Not a Life Coach

After years of burning out myself, I went back to school—finished my bachelor’s, earned a master’s in performance psychology, and now I’m working on my PhD in trauma. That’s why I call myself a practitioner. My approach is evidence-based. It’s not about hype, it’s about tools that actually stick.

Life coaching isn’t “bad.” But if you’re tired of generic advice and want strategies you can apply today, performance psychology coaching is a different level.