Health coaching is a method of guiding
others to address their health and, if need be, make behavioral changes
to improve their health. Like traditional coaching, health coaches
utilize goal setting, identification of obstacles, and use of personal
support systems. The relationship between the coach and coachee
(patient) is an accountability partnership focused on the overall health
outcome goals as defined by healthcare practitioners and the
patient/coachee.
Health coaching is a collaborative and personalized program that focuses
on improving health and wellness. Health coaching builds an
individual’s capacity to achieve short- and long-term health and fitness
goals. Participants in a health coaching program interact one-on-one
with their health coach by telephone, instant messenger, email and
online journal.
Unlike personal training or counseling, you, the client, are the expert
when working with a health coach. Whether you're working toward general
wellness or a more specific health-related issue, a health coach will
focus on enhancing your quality of life. Most health coaches guide,
motivate, provide customized resources, and help clients to set
achievable goals. In general, health coaches do not diagnose, prescribe,
or give advice – but, because of the growing needs of diabetics and
others, the role of the health coach has continues to grow and expand
beyond the traditional responsibilities.
The role of a health coach is unique. A health coach will not just ask
you if you have eaten the right foods for the day unless that is what
you want your health coach to do. Instead, the health coach is there to
help you identify and achieve whatever goals you set for improved
vitality by coordinating the many resources available to you.
Health coaches are high-level, seasoned professionals, experienced in
behavioral change and in serving moderate-risk and sedentary, high-risk
and high-stress populations. Many health coaches hold degrees in
Exercise Science, Health Education, Exercise Physiology, Counseling and
Health Education, Counseling and Education, and some have a bachelor’s
degree.
Author's Perspective: As previously
mentioned, I have met many health coaches who are good at what they do,
but they're not making any money. Why? Because they were not taught how
to market their services and be a health coach at the same time.
Consequently, most health coaches fail to develop a strong customer base
and a consistent flow of revenue.