Health coaching is the use of evidence-based skilful conversation, clinical interventions and strategies to actively and safely engage client/patients in health behaviour change.
Is this this the same as Wellness Coaching?
A wellness coach and health coach aren’t always considered separate jobs or responsibilities, but a wellness coach is typically someone who helps his or her clients develop strategies for improving all areas of personal wellness. The Vital Health & Wellbeing Centre can assist you in both areas, adopting a holistic approach.
What are the responsibilities of a health coach?
Health coaching is the method of guiding a person in addressing health issues and the need to improve health. This helps a person to lead a healthy lifestyle by making behavioural and lifestyle changes. Health goals are set with the client and the coach works alongside the client taking a supportive role, assisting them to achieve their goals. Responsibilities include:
Work with clients to determine their problem areas, identify obstacles, and create a plan to achieve their health and wellbeing goals
Educate clients about eating healthy and exercising properly
Keep clients motivated and on-track to overcome challenges
Be mindful of health issues or prior injuries when developing plans.
Health Coaches are not medical practitioners. All clients will initially be asked to visit their GP who will provide medical advice which can feed into the coaching process. For example, a visit to the GP may result in GP advising that you must quit smoking as have been diagnosed with a respiratory condition. A Health Coach can then help you to achieve this goal and modify your behavior and support you along this journey.
At the Vital Health & Wellbeing Centre we focus on evidence-based practice and coach our clients via education, health promotion activities, mentoring, goal setting, moral boosting and encouragement.
