1. What is the difference between counseling and coaching?

Counseling and coaching can complement each other, but they serve different purposes. Counseling offers emotional support during difficult seasons of life, such as relationship strain, caregiving stress, grief, identity shifts, or midlife transitions. It helps you process emotions and build healthier ways of coping.

Coaching is more forward-looking and action-oriented. It focuses on helping you clarify what’s next, rebuild confidence, strengthen relationships, and move forward with intention.

2. What sets you apart from other coaches and counselors?

I am a master’s-level clinical social worker and a certified life and divorce coach, with extensive experience in clinical and mental health settings. This allows me to integrate the emotional depth of counseling with the clarity and momentum of coaching, creating a customized experience tailored to your unique needs, goals, and life circumstances.

3. What types of life transitions do you help with?

I support individuals navigating meaningful life changes, including divorce, midlife transitions, empty nesting, caregiving for aging parents or loved ones, relocation, and retirement., and redefining identity after change. If you’re feeling stretched thin, uncertain, or quietly asking, “Is this it?”—you’re not alone, and support can help.

4. How do you support someone who feels stuck or overwhelmed by change?

We slow things down and take it one step at a time. I’ll help you process emotions, sort through competing responsibilities, reconnect with your needs, and create a plan that feels realistic—not overwhelming. You don’t need to have answers before you start. We figure things out together.

5. What is divorce coaching, and how does it differ from legal advice?

Divorce coaching supports the emotional, practical, and personal aspects of divorce—it does not provide legal advice. The focus is on reducing overwhelm, clarifying decisions, managing emotions, and helping you move through the process with greater clarity and long-term wellbeing in mind.

6. Do you work with attorneys, mediators, or financial professionals?

Yes. With your permission, I can collaborate with attorneys, mediators, or financial professionals to support a smoother, less stressful process. A coordinated approach often helps clients feel more supported and empowered throughout major transitions.

7. Can sessions help if I don’t know what I want next?

Absolutely. Many clients begin feeling uncertain or unclear about their next steps. Through guided conversation, reflection, and practical strategies, we uncover what matters most to you—and then build toward it at a pace that feels right for you.

8. What outcomes do clients typically experience?

Clients often report greater clarity, confidence, emotional balance, and direction. Many describe feeling lighter, more grounded, and more aligned with their values, relationships, and future goals.

9. How do I schedule a session?

I offer a complimentary consultation so we can determine if working together is the right fit.

To schedule, call 561-414-7029 or email mary@marycowens.com.