This is a question that I come across from time to time and this video talks about it nicely. Now I have a podcast episode that is coming out about the differences between therapist and a coach and this video just cements what I mentioned.
So what is a coach? It is a professional who helps people to find answers using the clients own skills. Coaches help people imaging a greater possibility in their client and then gives the needed support in achieving that lofty objective.
This is different from a consultant or a therapist. While one uses analytics to find answers and the other helps you will past life issues. They help in treating behavioral problems due to previous experiences.
Coaching looks to the future by asking questions and helping the client to first open the possibilities they have before them. Then they help in getting to that point.