It’s routine to have regular checkups with your physician, dentist and other specialists, but have you ever worked with a health coach as part of your healthcare team? If you are focused on wellness and reaching health-related goals, health coaching may be right for you.
Similar to how an athletic coach can help with sports performance, a health and wellness coach helps others live a healthy life. Health coaches are partners in implementing lifestyle changes to improve health. Health coaching services may be offered through corporate wellness programs, doctor’s offices, community health clinics, online and elsewhere.
Health coaches do not diagnose and treat medical conditions nor do they interpret medical results or prescribe medications, diets or supplements. Instead, they use a client-centered approach, motivational techniques and behavioral strategies to help individuals set goals and create a plan to improve their health. Health coaches also provide resources and referrals to healthcare providers to help support the client’s plan and goals.
Health coaches may work within special niche areas like women’s health, fitness or nutrition, for example, and they may or may not have other certifications and degrees. Professional health coaches should take client privacy and confidentiality very seriously.
Studies show that health coaching can be an effective tool in managing health conditions. A recently published study found that health coaching improved health-related quality of life and reduced hospital admissions in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Keep in mind that health coaching is a relatively new field and health coaches are not licensed health care providers. There is currently no national standard for health coaches so it is important to know how to find a qualified health coach.
Here are four important considerations when choosing to work with a health coach:
What are the health coach’s certifications or credentials? Choose a coach that is certified by the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). NBHWC-certified coaches are considered to be the highest standard within the profession. Some health coaches may hold other credentials such as registered dietitian nutritionist or nurse practitioner.
How much does health coaching cost? The cost of health coaching is variable depending on factors including the number of sessions attended, the level of experience of the coach and whether it may be covered by medical insurance or one’s employer.
What are important qualities to look for in a health coach? Look for a health coach that possesses strong communication and listening skills, a positive and non-judgmental outlook, and is goal-oriented, experienced and professional.
What is the location of the health coaching sessions? Health coaches may meet in their own private offices, primary care or physician offices, client workplaces or via telehealth. Working with a health coach can be a long-term commitment so location and accessibility is important.
Ultimately, it’s important to choose a health coach that is professional, experienced and the right fit for you. When looking for a health coach, ask your physician, other health care providers or even your health insurance provider for recommendations. Ask for a brief discovery call with the health coach to find out more about their background, style and service offerings to make sure they are the right fit. Health coaching can be a great way to shift from contemplating better health to authentically living a healthier life.
LeeAnn Weintraub, MPH, RD is a registered dietitian, providing nutrition counseling and consulting to individuals, families and organizations. She can be reached by email at RD@halfacup.com.
