Approach & Focus
Coaching: The emphasis is for people to find greater fulfilment in their relationships through personal development, effective communication, and relationship skills. More forward-looking and action-oriented focused on where the individuals want to go.
Counselling: Resolving existing conflicts, improving communication and addressing psychological issues. Addressing dysfunction in the relationship, using therapeutic models to promote change and healing.

Methodology
Coaching: Motivational techniques, goal-setting and strategic planning to create healthy relationships moving to the next level. To have an action plan to achieve specific relationship goals, focusing more on practical application rather than therapeutic intervention.
Counselling: Uses therapeutic interventions based on psychological theories and models e.g. CBI or EFT, to resolve client issues and deal with underlying disorders. This is tailored to address the emotional and psychological aspects of relationship problems.

Scope of Practice
Coaching: Does not diagnose or treat mental health disorders, and is not a substitute.  Focused on coaching individuals and couples towards achieving greater fulfilment, resolving conflicts, improving communication, and deepening intimacy to raise the effectiveness of their relationship dynamics.
Counselling: Can diagnose and treat mental health disorders, which may involve delving into deep-seated personal or psychological issues affecting the relationship. They are qualified to work with clients experiencing significant emotional distress or mental health issues.

Educational Background
Coaching: Usually undergo specific coaching certification programs, which are different from those for counsellors. Their focus is more on achieving desired outcomes in a relationship rather than diagnosing or treating mental health issues.
Counselling: Typically has a degree in psychology, counselling, social work, or a related field. They are often licensed professionals who have completed supervised clinical experience and passed state-regulated exams. Their education and training are focused on diagnosing and treating mental and emotional disorders, including those that affect relationships.

Conflict is a natural aspect of any relationship. Effective conflict resolution involves open communication, active listening, empathy, and a willingness to compromise. Couples can benefit from establishing ground rules for discussions, such as avoiding blame and focusing on the issue at hand. Seeking the assistance of a couples therapist can also provide structured guidance in developing these skills.

Working together in a business can blur the lines between personal and professional life. To maintain a healthy balance, couples should:

• Define clear roles and responsibilities within the business to prevent overlap and potential conflicts.
• Establish boundaries to separate work time from personal time, ensuring that business discussions do not dominate their personal relationship.
• Communicate openly about challenges and successes, fostering mutual support and understanding.
• Seek external support, such as business coaches or mentors, to provide objective perspectives and advice.

Emotional intimacy is deepened through:

• Regular, meaningful conversations that allow partners to share their thoughts and feelings.
• Expressing appreciation and affection to reinforce the bond.
• Engaging in shared activities and creating new experiences together.
• Being attentive to each other’s needs and providing emotional support during challenging times.

Common relationship dynamics include:

• Demand and Withdrawal: One partner seeks closeness or resolution, while the other withdraws, leading to frustration.
• Distancer and Pursuer: One partner desires more space, while the other seeks more intimacy, creating a cycle of pursuit and distancing.
• Fear and Shame: Underlying insecurities manifest as defensive behaviours, impacting communication.

Identifying these patterns involves self-reflection and open dialogue. Addressing them requires understanding each other’s perspectives, developing healthier communication strategies, and possibly seeking professional guidance.

Rebuilding trust is a gradual process that involves:

• The offending partner taking full responsibility for their actions and expressing genuine remorse.
• Open and honest communication about the incident and its impact on the relationship.
• Establishing transparency in future actions to reassure the betrayed partner.
• Seeking couples therapy to navigate the complex emotions and rebuild the foundation of trust.