A very important aspect of the mentoring process is the sharing of the mentor’s knowledge and experiences with the mentee. Moreover, the mentee can ask for her mentor’s opinion and feedback. In coaching relationships, on the other hand, the coach must remain objective and refrain from expressing their personal views and opinions as well as sharing their personal experiences. Coaches use specific methods and tools to assist in the personal and professional growth of their coaches.
In addition, in the context of mentoring, as designed and implemented by WHEN, mentors are volunteers coming from different fields of work and sectors, whereas coaches offer their services in a professional capacity.
Lastly, mentoring can become a long-term relationship, whereas coaching is (usually) a more short-term collaboration.
The main difference between mentoring and counselling/therapy is that mentoring focuses on the professional growth of the mentee rather than addressing any personal issues/challenges they might be facing. Counselling/therapy, on the other hand, mainly focuses on self-consciousness and personal growth. Moreover, as in the case of coaching, counsellors are specialised professionals, offering their services for a fee.
Nonetheless, all three approaches use some standard tools and practices, and, of course, skills, such as active listening, building a safe framework of trust, and empathy.