Resources

When Coaching Isn't Right For You:
Additional Professional Support & Resources…

Coaching vs Professional Support

Coaching is a powerful tool for personal growth & achieving goals, but it’s not always the right fit for everyone & simply not enough. While coaching focuses on guiding you through challenges, setting goals & building your future, some situations require other professional medical or emotional support. If you’re experiencing severe stress, anxiety, depression, psychological or other health concerns, it’s essential to seek the appropriate professional support from specialists trained to provide the right care. Below is a list of services & professionals in the UK that can provide specialised help for various needs.

When to Seek Other Professional Help:

  • If you're feeling overwhelmed by mental health concerns or experiencing emotional distress, it’s important to reach out for support. Consider contacting any of the services & support listed below

  • If you’re unsure whether coaching is the right option for you, please consult a healthcare professional who can guide you in finding the appropriate support

Disclaimer:
Please note, this list offers a selection of helpful resources, but it is not exhaustive. If you need further support, I encourage you to explore other options or speak with a healthcare professional. Your well-being is important & we're here to help you find the right path for your needs.

Therapists, Counsellors & Psychologists:

Therapists
…are trained professionals who help individuals address emotional, psychological & behavioural issues over time. Therapy often focuses on healing past traumas, managing mental health conditions & improving long-term emotional well-being.

  • Contact:

    • The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP): Find a qualified therapist near you by visiting www.bacp.co.uk or calling 01455 883300

    • UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP): Access accredited therapists & support through www.psychotherapy.org.uk

Counsellors
…offer a safe space to explore personal issues, often dealing with specific problems or life events such as relationship challenges, grief, or work-related stress. Counselling tends to be short-term & solution-focused.

  • Contact:

    • Relate (for relationship counselling): Visit www.relate.org.uk or call 0300 003 0396

    • Mind (for mental health advice & support, including help with stress, anxiety & depression): Call 0300 123 3393 or visit www.mind.org.uk

Psychologists
…are experts in understanding behaviour & mental processes. Clinical psychologists diagnose & treat mental health disorders, often working with more complex psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, or personality disorders. Unlike coaches, they often provide assessments & evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

  • Contact:

    • The British Psychological Society (BPS): Find chartered psychologists through www.bps.org.uk

    • NHS: Speak to your GP about a referral for psychological services, or visit the NHS website at www.nhs.uk for information

Emergency Contacts:

  • 111: For non-emergency medical advice (speak to a GP or get medical guidance)

  • 101: For non-urgent police matters

  • 999: For emergencies (mental health crises, immediate harm, suicide, or life-threatening issues)

  • Your Local Pharmacist: For advice on medications & minor health conditions

Mental Health & Emotional Support Services:

  • Samaritans: Confidential emotional support for those struggling with life, available 24/7. Call 116 123

  • Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): Support for men in the UK facing a crisis. Call 0800 58 58 58

  • Shout: Free, confidential text support for mental health issues. Text 85258

  • Refuge: For those experiencing domestic abuse, Refuge offers confidential support & guidance. Call their 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247 or visit www.refuge.org.uk

  • Women’s Aid: Support for women & children facing domestic violence. Visit www.womensaid.org.uk or use their live chat feature for help

  • National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV): Provides fast assistance to anyone facing domestic violence. Visit www.ncdv.org.uk or call 0800 970 2070

  • Narcissistic Abuse Recovery: For those recovering from relationships with narcissists or emotional abuse. Visit www.narcissisticabuse.com for resources & support

Chronic Illness & Health Condition Support:

  • Macmillan Cancer Support: Offering physical, emotional & financial support for those affected by cancer. Call 0808 808 00 00 or visit www.macmillan.org.uk

  • Alzheimer's Society: Support & advice for those living with dementia & their families. Visit www.alzheimers.org.uk or call 0333 150 3456

  • British Heart Foundation: Information & support for heart-related conditions. Visit www.bhf.org.uk

Bereavement & Loss Support:

  • Cruse Bereavement Support: Offers grief & bereavement services for anyone coping with the death of a loved one. Visit www.cruse.org.uk or call 0808 808 1677

When to Reach Out for Immediate Help:

  • Emergency: If you're experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it’s crucial to contact local emergency services immediately. Call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.

  • Call a trusted helpline: Reach out to services like Samaritans or Shout for immediate emotional support.