Health care coach

 

What is a health coach?

A health coach is a professional who uses evidence-based conversation and strategies to engage patients (also known as clients) in behavior change that improves their health. As experts on human behavior and motivation, health coaches help clients achieve their health goals and empower them to integrate healthy habits into their lifestyles. 

In health coaching, the coach and the client talk about health issues. Together, they devise goals and strategies for achieving them. A health coach might help a client with:

Chronic disease or illness management

Nutrition (diet and exercise)

Stress reduction

Sleep

Time management

Weight loss

Smoking

Addiction

Dealing with the after-effects of a traumatic health condition, such as a heart attack or accident

Through cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing techniques, health coaches help their clients process their mental blocks, make time in their schedules for exercise or sleep, and more. A client centered approach of talk therapy, questions, and positive psychology empower them to make incremental decisions that benefit their health.

To become a health coach, you’ll need to gain some experience. A certification, though not necessary, can give you credibility and a strong foundation as you embark on this journey. Salary can vary depending on where you decide to work.

What is the difference between a health coach and a personal trainer?

A health coach is a professional who partners with clients to map out their health goals and plans. They may use psychological techniques like motivational interviewing or CBT when coaching. Their focus can range from letting go of smoking or alcohol to addressing obesity or diabetes as part of a physician’s orders.

A personal trainer focuses on creating safe, effective exercise and fitness programs for healthy individuals. They work on weight loss, strength training, muscle toning, and more.

Benefits of health coaching

A health coach can help patients create plans for a healthy lifestyle. Alongside physicians, they fill in the gaps in care and provide the support that some patients need to fulfill their goals. For example, a doctor can tell a person to eat more vegetables and exercise regularly, but what does it take for the average person to actually change their behavior? Health coaches can:

Provide the tools a patient needs to improve their own care, well-being, and overall health.

Empower the patient to take control of their life and health.

Give accountability and support to the patient as they navigate their health goals.

Deliver action-based advice like how to make healthier choices at the grocery store, or ways to integrate meditation.

Modify behaviors that lead to long-term improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, body weight, and body mass index, fitness, and chronic medical conditions such as obesity, arthritis, diabetes, and cancer