Life coaching: what the research says

Workplace studies suggest coaching may help people reach goals. It is not therapy; there is no good evidence yet for stress or low mood.

What a session is

A life coach uses guided conversations to help you set goals and plan practical steps towards them. Coaching looks forward; it is not counselling or therapy.

What the research says

• Reaching goals: Studies of workplace coaching found people got better at working towards goals and felt more capable. Personal life coaching is less studied. Some evidence it may help · Journal of Positive Psychology, 2014 · Frontiers in Psychology, 2023
• Wellbeing: Studies, mostly in workplaces and including some of doctors, found wellbeing improved after coaching. Most were small and varied in quality. Limited evidence · Journal of Positive Psychology, 2014 · PLOS ONE, 2023
• Stress: No good studies of life coaching for everyday stress yet. Small workplace studies hint people cope a little better; more research is needed. No good evidence yet · PLOS ONE, 2023 · Journal of Positive Psychology, 2014
• Low mood: Not studied for low mood in the sources we use. Coaching is not a substitute for help from a doctor or talking therapist. No good evidence yet
• Worry and anxiety: Not studied for worry or anxiety in the sources we use. If worry affects daily life, a GP can suggest talking therapy. No good evidence yet · NHS, 2024

More on each need: Handle stress better · Lift your mood · Feel calmer

Is it safe?

Life coaching is not regulated in the UK, so anyone can call themselves a life coach: ask about training. Coaching is not a substitute for help with a mental health problem. If low mood lasts more than 2 weeks, see a GP. Prospects, 2026 · NHS, 2026

Sessions on Sissoo complement medical care and never replace it. Please don’t stop or change any treatment without talking to your doctor. If you feel very low or think about ending your life, call your local emergency number now.

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Checked 17 October 2026. Next check by April 2027. How we rate the evidence.