The Differences Between Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) & Life Coaches… And Why It Matters!
Did you know that in BC, counselling is currently still an unregulated practice? Yep, you read that right—anyone, regardless of their qualifications, can call themselves a counsellor, coach, or therapist. This lack of regulation can make it difficult to determine who is truly qualified to support your mental health needs.
Life coaches vs. Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC’s): Key Differences:
Let’s address the elephant in the room: reaching out for help can feel intimidating, and the idea of working with a life coach might seem less daunting than seeing a therapist. But before you decide, it’s important to understand the key differences between these roles.
This isn’t to discredit life coaches—many are skilled and ethical. However, not all are created equal, just as not all registered therapists and clinicians are the same. Here’s what sets registered clinical counsellors (RCCs) apart:
The Importance of Accountability and Ethics
One of the biggest distinctions is accountability. Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) and other registered professionals are bound by ethical standards set by governing bodies. In the case of all of us Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) at True Nature Wilderness Therapy, we belong to and are overseen by The British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). If you ever feel mistreated or if ethical boundaries are crossed, you can file a complaint, and action will be taken. This level of accountability does not generally hold true for unregulated pursuits such as life coaching.
Additionally, Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) are required to carry liability insurance, which provides protection for both the client and the therapist.
Education and Expertise
Registered Clinical Counsellors hold both undergraduate and master’s degrees. This means that they’ve gone through extensive schooling, learning and practicing empirically backed approaches and tools to work with clients from all different backgrounds. Seldomly will you see on a therapist’s website or business page that the reason they know how to help support you, is because they went through the same thing(though that can, at times be relevant and helpful), rather, they cite training, schooling, and the experience that gives them the credibility and expertise to safely and professionally help you navigate your current life challenges.
Scope of Practice Matters
Scope of practice is a critical concept in healthcare. Registered professionals carefully assess whether your concerns fall within their expertise. This is why many therapists offer free 15-minute consultations—not just to ensure they’re a good fit for you, but also to confirm they have the skills to address your specific needs.
If you’re dealing with any of the following issues, seeking a registered professional is essential:
Trauma or attachment wounds
Diagnosed mental health conditions
Anxiety or mood disorders
Eating disorders
Addictions
Grief or chronic stress
Suicidal thoughts
And many other concerns
For these issues and more, professionals like Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs), social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists are specifically trained to help.
Who Can Be Your Therapist?
Your therapist is required to maintain professional boundaries, which means they cannot have a dual relationship with you. This means that a friend, family member, or someone with whom you have other relationships (a boss, a coworker, a business partner) cannot be your therapist. The rule of thumb is simple: when you walk into their office, they should know nothing about you personally. This ensures a blank slate and sets the stage for a more successful and professional therapeutic relationship.
Final Thoughts: Finding a Trusted Professional
If you’re seeking a qualified mental health professional, look for designations like Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), Psychologist, Psychiatrist or Registered Social Worker (RSW). These professionals adhere to strict training and ethical standards, with oversight that ensures you are more likely to receive high-quality care.
Another helpful tip is to check with your insurance provider. Most insurance plans only cover registered professionals. By understanding the differences between registered clinicians and life coaches, you can make an informed decision that prioritizes your mental health and well-being. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Looking for a trusted counsellor in BC? Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you.
Notes:
Checkout this article to learn more about the differences between a psychotherapist, psychologist and psychiatrist.
If you’re interested, here is an outline to the BCACC’s standards of practice that protect the public, linked here!
~Julia Bursey, Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), True Nature Wilderness Therapy
