The difference is a life coach holds you accountable for making an active change in your life. However, there are theories that state coaching works with individuals on their future whereas therapists work with individuals on their past. And that life coaches work on the conscious mind whereas therapist with on the subconscious mind. But, they are just theories. However, there is one thing that defines coaching from therapists and that is the theory that guides the work in focusing on emotional, mental, and physical health combined.