What is a health coach and how can they help?

The definition provided by the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaching is "Health & wellness coaches partner with clients looking to enhance their well-being through self-directed lasting changes, aligned with their values. In the course of their work, health & wellness coaches display unconditional positive regard for their clients and a belief in their ability to change, honoring the fact that each client is an expert on their own life while ensuring that all interactions are respectful and non-judgmental."

Imagine driving your car to a destination you've never been and you don't know how to get there (and you can't just type it into your phone, ha!) This might feel overwhelming and a little bit scary. Now imagine you have a "coach" in your passenger seat who can offer support and resources whenever you need it. While YOU are still driving the car and making decisions on how and where you want to go, the coach is there to tell you what hotels are at the next exit because you're ready to call it a night, or the gas station with the cheapest gas within the next 60 miles.

I think you get my drift. As a health coach, we are behavioral change experts, helping uncover your inner motivations, while highlighting and building on your strengths and values. I am not a doctor, nutritionist, dietician or psychologist. I will not prescribe or tell you what to do. I can share resources, brainstorm, and be your accountability partner in your health journey. This journey is typically not linear, you'll have successes and setbacks, but working with a coach will ensure that you'll still be moving forward and learning along the way.