I’m a health coach and I only work with experts

When clients come to my office they are usually confused by conflicting information or fed up health advice that doesn’t work for them. Often times they have previously met with multiple experts and doctors and have copious amounts of knowledge about their “problem”, but they are struggling to find success in alleviating symptoms or making changes.

As a health coach, I partner with my clients to help empower their mindset. I engage THEM as THE EXPERT on how their life can be happy and healthier. I only work with experts and I love it.

Recently the Washington Post published an article describing how health coaches work and why we are becoming an important part of the health care system. A key take away describes how health coaches are different from nutritionists, personal trainers, and therapists as described the executive director of the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching:

“Health coaches believe a client is already an expert in their own life and their own needs.”

When working with clients, I focus sessions to see how their mindset, values and lifestyle can drive their achievements in reaching their goals. There is never a one-size-fits-all solution or structured diet and fitness program.

Health coaching focuses on creating a plan for the client’s current situation and how to best implement the changes they are wanting now. It can work in conjunction with other modalities, like psychotherapy and nutrition counseling, or on it’s own.

The goal is for clients to create self-determination in the areas they are seeking growth. I act as a guide and coach to keep a structure in the process, but the content and goals are completely client-lead.

This switch is often challenging at first. As a society we have been programmed to follow what has worked for others or what others think is helpful for us. But, when these cookie-cutter solutions fail short, we are left thinking we failed. With health coaching, you are challenged to really get to know yourself more to make decisions and changes that are sustainable and actually work for you.

The switch to thinking of yourself as the expert on your health and happiness is truly empowering and can be life changing. You no longer need to rely on the next fad to guide your health but can intrinsically follow your own path.

Read the full Washington Post article here.

Your Well First is my wellness practice in Kailua, Hawaii. I offer health coaching and massage therapy services to help clients reconnect to their mind and body to live fulfilling and happy lives.