If you're on the fence about hiring a career coach in Denver, you're not alone. Across Reddit, local job seekers and career changers are asking the same thing: "Is it worth paying for career coaching, or can I get the same help elsewhere for free?" This page distills real insights from Reddit threads to help you make an informed decision.
What Redditors Are Saying
1. Skepticism Around Unregulated Coaches
Reddit users warn that not all career coaches are created equal. Many expressed concern that the industry is unregulated and filled with unqualified individuals offering vague advice.
“Rather than a coach… you have a better than even chance to just be giving money to someone who couldn’t find a different job.” — r/Denver
2. Praise for Certified Coaches With Structure
On the flip side, Redditors gave high marks to coaches who bring structure, real credentials, and outcome-driven support—especially those with HR or counseling backgrounds.
“I worked with a coach who helped me prep for two interviews and rework my resume. That alone was worth the price.” — r/DenverJobs
3. Free Services Have a Place—but Limitations Too
Workforce centers and public programs were highlighted as helpful, especially for those on a tight budget. However, the drawbacks included long wait times and generic group sessions.
“They helped with my resume, and it was free, but the advice was very basic.” — r/Denver
4. Success Stories from Career Changers
Reddit users who were changing careers or returning to work after a break found real value in one-on-one coaching.
“I used a coach when I switched from education to UX design—she helped me reframe my experience and land my first role.” — r/careerguidance
Should You Hire a Career Coach?
Here’s a breakdown based on what Redditors found most useful:
| Situation | Coaching Value |
|---|---|
| You’re stuck in your current job |  High |
| Making a major career change | Very High |
| Just need resume formatting |  Try free options |
| Need clarity + job search strategy | High |
| Already tried free services, no results | Worth investing |
Final Takeaway
Reddit threads show that career coaching in Denver can be worth it—if you choose the right coach. Look for someone with credentials, a clear process, and testimonials. Be wary of vague offerings or pressure to commit to expensive long-term packages.
Want to avoid the guesswork? Careers by Design offers flexible, results-focused coaching tailored to your goals. No fluff. No pressure. Just real help that works.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Linda Faucheux M.A., Career Coach & Counsellor
Linda is an accomplished Career Coach and Career Counsellor who helps clients worldwide and is a valued team member at Careers by Design. She specializes in a contemplative and mindful approach to career path selection and challenges. Her calm and grounded delivery helps clients feel at ease and able to gain insights in a joyful manner.
Linda is a former Director of Career Services at Naropa University & brings more than 20 years of coaching experience to her practice, see Linda's bio here for more details.