WHY MORE BUSINESS EXECS ARE TURNING TO THERAPY
CEOs and business professionals are driven, successful, and ambitious individuals with the power to shape the future of companies, industries, and sometimes the world. But with this level of responsibility can come an overwhelming sense of stress, which can lead to a variety of mental health issues.
5 stressful situations business professionals can find themselves in
1. They’re constantly under high amounts of pressure
CEOs often have to make tough decisions that affect the future of their companies and the livelihoods of their employees. This level of responsibility can lead to high levels of stress and pressure, which can take a toll on their mental health.
2. They can often feel isolated
Working in positions of power can make it challenging to form meaningful relationships with others in the office. This isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and anxiety.
3. They encounter criticism and failure a lot
CEOs and business execs are constantly under scrutiny from their boards, investors, and the public. They also have to deal with failures and setbacks, which can be difficult to navigate emotionally.
4. Their work-life balance isn’t balanced
Often having to work long hours and prioritise their work above all else, business professionals can find it extremely challenging to maintain a healthy work-life balance, finding minimal time for themselves.
5. They deal with personal issues on top of it all
CEOs and top-tier business execs are not immune to personal issues that can impact their mental health. They may struggle with addiction, relationship issues, or other personal problems that can interfere with their ability to lead effectively and that can add an additional layer of stress to their lives.
While many CEOs and business professionals often have life coaches, they don’t often have therapists or psychologists that dig deep into their mental health to tackle their problems. While coaching can be beneficial for business professionals, there are many reasons why psychologists – who use different approaches to helping individuals achieve their goals – may be better equipped to help CEOs address their mental health and emotional wellbeing.
5 reasons therapists can be better than life coaches
1. They have training and credentials
Psychologists undergo extensive training and education to become licensed professionals. They have a deep understanding of mental health and psychology and are trained to diagnose and treat a range of mental health issues. Coaches, on the other hand, may not have the same level of training or credentials and may not be equipped to address complex mental health issues.
2. They focus on mental health
Psychologists focus on mental health and emotional wellbeing, while coaches typically focus on performance and productivity. While performance is essential for CEOs, mental health is equally as important, if not more so. Psychologists can help CEOs address issues such as anxiety, depression, and burnout, which can have a significant impact on their ability to lead effectively.
3. They use evidence-based practices
Psychologists rely on research and clinical expertise to develop treatment plans that are tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Coaches may rely more on intuition and personal experience rather than evidence-based practices.
4. They abide by confidentiality and professional boundaries
Psychologists are bound by strict confidentiality and professional boundaries, which ensures that their clients’ personal information is protected. They also have a duty of care to their clients, which means that they have a responsibility to ensure that their clients are not at risk of harm. Coaches may not have the same level of professional boundaries and may not be bound by the same strict confidentiality guidelines.
5. They often have a greater scope of practice
Psychologists often have a broader scope of practice than life coaches, which means that they are trained to diagnose and treat a range of mental health issues. They can provide therapy, medication management, and other treatments that coaches may not be qualified to provide. This means that they can provide a more comprehensive approach to mental health care for business professionals who are in need.
Are you a business professional who’s interested in exploring therapy? Reach out to our friendly team today.