What is a Health Coach? And Should You Work With One?
What exactly is a Health Coach? Are they legit? Qualified? Or even worth the time?
These are the same questions I had when I first heard about Health Coaches.
To cut to the chase, a health coach is simply that - a coach. A health coach is committed to helping clients achieve their goals. Each coach will have their own approach and specialties. As a holistic health coach myself, my approach to guiding clients towards their goals and total wellness is through a holistic lens; meaning I believe that all areas of life impact one another. I help clients reach their goals by assisting with changes in nutrition, spirituality, relationships, career, and more.
A Health Coach Is Not
A Psychologist, Therapist, Dietitian, or a Nutritionist. Treating or prescribing medical prescriptions is not within a health coach’s scope of practice. A health coach is not certified to treat mental health issues or diagnose clients.
A Health Coach Is
Your coach, a guide, a resource provider, supporter, accountability partner, and way maker. A health coach can serve clients in many different ways. They are trained to assist you with nutrition, self development, mindset, navigating career challenges, finding work-life balance, committing to lifestyle changes, assisting with making big decisions, supporting with relationship issues, and helping you to find balance in your life. And this is just scratching the surface. Each health coach is unique, so look for one who resonates with you. Many health coaches may also have additional certifications in other areas of wellness. For example, I’m also a certified Yoga Teacher!
What are the qualifications of a Health Coach?
While there are currently no state required certifications needed to become a health coach, there is a governing board who have developed standards and requirements for accredited programs, schools, and courses to officially gain the title of “Certified Health and Wellness Coach” through the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching. This is similar to the criteria around certified personal trainers, yoga instructors, etc. You can learn more about the specific requirements and qualifications through the NBHWC website. There is a huge need in the health care system for health coaches. Think about a patient getting diagnosed with diabetes, given a list of what to eat, then sent home. This is where the health coach steps in. We help bridge the gap between doctor and daily living. Doctors provide the Rx, but health coaches step in to help with transition, good habit development, lifestyle changes, and self care rituals. Your life should be happy, healthy and full of fun - our job is to help bring that into reality.
To ensure I’m well qualified, prepared and equipped to serve my clients, I went back to school through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. During this program, I learned from some of the top leaders in the nutrition and wellness industry. I implemented these healthy changes in my life to show that healthy lifestyle changes, both physically and mentally, can make all the difference! After completing this program, I felt confident, educated, and properly equipped to support clients in making lasting changes in their lives. Not only am I healthier, I feel better about my body, my purpose, and the life I’m living.
What you can expect from working with a Health Coach
Every health coach has a different approach. Just like stepping on your mat with your favorite yoga instructor, all experiences will be unique to you and your coach. You can most likely expect a few, or all of the following services and support offered:
1-on-1 or group coaching sessions - virtual or in-person
Group programs or coaching sessions - virtual or in-person
Topic Specific Programs - (Nutrition, Self Care, Relationships, Career, Spirituality, etc.)
Resources & Suggested Reading Materials
Goal Setting, Guidance, & Accountability
Retreats
Corporate Offerings
Custom Products
What I currently offer:
1-On-1 Coaching - virtual or in-person
Specialized Individual and Group Programs coming soon!!
You might benefit from working with a Health Coach if:
You want to learn more about how to nourish your body through nutrient-dense whole foods
You just visited a doctor and need to implement some dietary changes at home but don’t know where to start
You’ve been struggling with self-acceptance, and want to commit to exploring and honoring yourself
You’re tired of the passionless 9 to 5, and want to finally take steps towards achieving your dream career
You want to stick to and keep the goals you set for yourself
You want to elevate your meal prep and find tips and tricks for leading a healthy life at work, home, and on the road
You’re not feeling like your vibrant, authentic, highest self and want to tap into your divine inner being
You’re filled with fear when thinking about the future, making decisions, while facing a crossroads
You catch yourself in cycles you’re finally ready to break
If this sounds like you, invest in yourself!
No matter how big or small our struggles may seem to outsiders, we’re the ones who carry the weight. Let’s team up to knock down limiting beliefs and take your power back. The key is to commit. Help is out there. Search for someone who you vibe with. This is really important. You want to feel safe, valued, and supported every step of the way.
If you’re interested in working together, I’d love to connect! Take the first step and reach out. I offer free 15 min consultations. Ask questions, tell me what you’re wanting to work on and we can determine if we would be a great fit :)
with love,
Kendall
A note on career: if your subconscious has been whispering “this is what I should do” while reading this blog, check out what a sample class is like at IIN. As always - I’m here for any questions for those who may feel called to become a health coach as well!