The life coaching industry, valued at $4.56bn (£3.64bn) and growing rapidly, is facing scrutiny over a lack of regulation that leaves clients vulnerable to scams and predatory practices. With no legal standards required to become a life coach, experts warn that unqualified individuals are exploiting people in crisis.
Emily Maguire, a career consultant and life coach, notes that the pandemic has driven many to seek guidance for mental health and life direction. Social media has amplified the industry's reach, with coaches promoting idealised lifestyles. However, this boom has also opened the door to fraudulent operators.
Journalist Jane Marie, who has investigated the dark side of life coaching, says the industry's lack of oversight allows scammers to thrive. 'A life coach may or may not have a psychology degree, they may or may not have done any official training,' she explains. This leaves clients like Angela Lauria, who spent over $100,000 on coaching programmes, feeling exploited.
Lauria, initially seeking help for postnatal depression, was drawn into a costly cycle of courses and mentorships. She believes her coach targeted vulnerable women. Marie adds that targeting desperate customers is a hallmark of scams, though most coaches are legitimate.
