Q: HOW DOES CONSULTING, THERAPY, MENTORING, PASTORAL COUNSELING AND COACHING DIFFER? A: While there are overlapping qualities and skills in each of these areas, there are distinct differences. Bill has training/experience and works in all five. Consultants are experts in their field. They draw on their experience to manage projects and are directive. Consultants are usually retained on a per project basis. Therapists and Counselors work with people who have a diagnosable illness and/or behavior that prevents them from functioning well. They meet in person.   Mentors are advisors who work with start-up business or ministries where the mentor has experience. Mentors usually are not paid. A mentors role diminishes naturally. Pastoral Counselors work with people who want a deeper understanding or interpretation of scripture which can be applied to everyday life.    Coaches work with emotionally healthy people who are looking to make changes in their lives to become or achieve more. Most coaches work by phone.