Enneagram Coaching vs. Enneagram Informed Therapy - What's the Difference? feat. Dina Smith, LMHC

In this episode of Enneagram at Work, I’m joined by Dina Smith, licensed therapist, clinical director, certified Enneagram practitioner, and one of our Enneagram MBA visiting faculty members, to explore an important (and sometimes confusing) question:

What’s the difference between Enneagram coaching and Enneagram-informed therapy?

Dina and I dig into:

• How they differ – Why therapy often looks at symptoms, diagnoses, and the past, while coaching focuses more on present-day growth and future goals.
• Practical examples – How Dina uses the Enneagram both in her therapy practice and as a leader of her team.
• Ethics and responsibility – The boundaries coaches and therapists need to keep in mind, and when it’s time to refer out.
• The real benefits – How the Enneagram helps us create shared language, build faster connections, and uncover blind spots.
• Misconceptions – Including why the Enneagram isn’t “just like astrology” and how to use it responsibly in professional settings.

You’ll also hear Dina share what it’s like leading as a Type 3, including some of her blind spots, strengths, and how feedback from her team has helped her grow as a leader.

Resources & Links

Connect with Dina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinasmithenneagramconsulting/

Find Dina on Psychology Today:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/dina-smith-gainesville-fl/1342124

Interested in a typing session with Dina or having your team members clarify their types? Start here and tell us more: https://www.enneagrammba.com/contact

🗓️ Book an Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops

✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet: https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet