What is Health Coaching?

I’m so glad you asked! Working with a Certified Integrative Health Coach (IHC) is different than many other types of coaching, professional, and personal relationships. As an IHC, I work to guide you towards the optimal health vision you have for your life. I do this through scientifically proven and evidence based questioning and reflecting your own ideas back to you. You are the expert on your life, and you are the one with the answers on how to make your vision a reality, and I am here to be by your side on the way to your best health.

So how does this relationship differ from others you may have experienced? An IHC works as an unbiased confidential party. I get to know the vision and values you have in your life, help you focus on the most impactful area of your health, help you set goals, and work on action steps to achieve those goals. I ask questions to get to know you and work to focus your intentions to make a the biggest impact in your health. We work within all areas of your health well-being with understanding that working on one area of focus has major impacts on all other areas of your life. You will assess each area determine the level of how import each area is to you and confidence in your ability to make changes. From there, you will set a goal and determine small action steps to achieve that goal. We will meet about every other week to check in on those action steps and adjust your steps as needed. Our relationship usually lasts between 3-6 months because that is typically the time it takes to make progress on your goal.

An IHC is not a therapist. We focus on the current situation and future actions to make your vision a reality. I am also not a sports coach or financial coach as in I don’t have the expertise on one area where I am coaching you on what to do. Rather, you are the expert on your own life! You know what can be done, I am here to listen and explore possible new actions to take. 

Health coaching is progress oriented. You will start by filling out an assessment to determine to a focused goal that will get you to the life you envision.  Most health coaching partnerships last for about 3 months; however, we will always check in on progress and adjust the time frame as needed. To make significant changes to your health, a minimum of 3 months is usually necessary. Some goals take longer to reach or you may want to take on another area of your health, so we may keep working together. This is a partnership, so we will customize your plan to meet your specific needs. 

You will create a goal and the action steps that make most sense for you. I will help you brainstorm and may provide resources you find helpful. I will not prescribe a specific nutrition plan or give your advice on how to get the promotion at work you desire. Instead, you will come up with the small action steps you think are necessary. For example, if you have a goal to lose weight, we might brainstorm all the ways and people that may help you reach that goal. Then, you will decide which route to take. It may be as small of a step as researching Registered Dieticians that provide nutrition counseling or it may be to start meditating daily in order to get clear on your intentions for the day. The possibilities are endless and completely individualized to your circumstances. 

There are many people advertising themselves as health or wellness coaches without having any certifications or education on the topics. Before working with a coach, always ask what training they have and make sure it aligns with your values and beliefs. I obtained my Integrative Health Coaching Certification from Duke University School of Integrative Medicine. As of June 2021, I am working on getting 50+ hours of coaching before getting certified. I also plan to obtain my board certification by 2022. 

So, are you ready to make significant and lasting changes to your health and well-being? Book a 30-minute free introductory call and you can share more about what you envision for your health, and I can help get you there!