 Have you ever wondered, “What’s a Health Coach?” Please allow me to explain! A Health Coach is a professional who can provide you with guidance in regards to living a healthy and active lifestyle. They can assist you with defining your health goals, identify areas of change, develop a plan of action, and continue to coach you through the behavior change process. Health Coaches can specialize in a variety of health related topics and vary based on their educational background, experience, and their current certifications/licenses. By partnering with a Health Coach your goal can be transformed into a positive life changing habit. Below are five questions to ask yourself before selecting your Health Coach. #1. What’s the Health Coach’s Educational and Professional Background? An accredited Health Coach will list their educational background and experiences on their website or be more than willing to share that information with you. Be sure to check the college or university they received their education from. Universities that offer other nutrition and medical related programs, such as Duke and Arizona State, rank among the top universities for Health Coaching programs. #2. Does the Health Coach’s Mission and Values Align with Mine? View the Health Coach’s website and be sure their mission and values are in line with yours. For example, if you are looking to live a healthy and active lifestyle, then select a coach who works on long term sustainable changes, not quick fixes. #3. Will They Provide Me with a Clearly Defined Client Contract? Your Health Coach should offer you a clearly defined client contract so that you know exactly what you are purchasing. At the very least it should tell you: your start date, cost, contract length, payment options, define the services they will provide, and what participation is necessary from you. This way you know what you are being held accountable to and what you need to hold your Health Coach accountable to. #4. Is There a Secure Way to Pay? Search for a Health Coach who offers a secure way to pay. Secure options include third party processors such as Stripe or PayPal. Some businesses also offer payment options that can be processed through a Federal Bank. #5. Are They Willing to Communicate with my Licensed Medical Professionals? As a Health Coach I can bridge the gap between where you are now and where your licensed medical professional recommends you be, by coaching you on the behaviors necessary to implement those changes and guide you to an improved state of health. Personally, I am a Certified Dietary Manager through the Association of Nutrition and Foodservice Professionals, a Certified Personal Fitness Trainer through the American Council on Exercise, and I have completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Healthy Lifestyle Coaching through Arizona State University. With all of this, it doesn’t take the place of your Primary Care Physician, Registered Dietitian, Licensed Psychologist, or any other licensed medical professional. Therefore, whatever Health Coach you select be sure they are willing to communicate with your licensed medical professionals and not attempt to take their place! If you would like to learn more about Health Coaching please fill out the contact form at www.iampositivelywell.com, I would love to hear from you! Chelsea Physical Health & Wellness Coach Positively Well, LLC www.iampositivelywell.com |
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