Wellness coaching is an evidence-based approach to fostering long-term well-being. It works with you to build lasting, positive change through a collaborative and non-judgmental partnership that centers your strengths, values, and motivations.
Wellness coaches work in a variety of different settings, from private practices to companies with wellness initiatives. They may also work in a gym or health club.
Workplaces
Wellness coaches can work in a variety of work settings. For example, they might provide coaching services in an employee assistance program or a diabetes prevention program. They may also consult for human resources offices, insurance businesses and skilled nursing facilities.
Some wellness coaches focus on a specific niche. For example, they might be experts in weight loss or nutrition, while others offer a more holistic approach to health by working with clients on their entire mind, body and soul.
Regardless of the type of wellness coach, they all have one thing in common: They can help a company save money and improve employee health. Companies that implement wellness programs often report better productivity, higher employee morale and less sick days.
Creating a culture of wellness is one of the best ways to attract top talent. It also helps employees maintain their health, which can reduce medical costs.
Individuals
If you have a passion for helping people develop the tools and resources to achieve their best health, wellness coaching may be the right career for you. As a wellness coach, you are responsible for working one-on-one with clients to help them reach their individual health goals, including eating healthier, exercising more, and managing stress.
Wellness coaches provide their clients with the knowledge, skills, and motivation to enact lasting behavioral change. They do not prescribe diets or exercise plans but instead educate and guide their clients in how to create wellness practices that work for them.
Health and wellness coaching is a growing industry with opportunities for work in doctor’s offices, wellness centers, alternative health practices, and hospitals. Whether you specialize in group coaching or work as an independent practitioner, your needs and goals will drive the type of clients you can serve. You can also pursue additional certification to expand your expertise and establish a long-term practice.
Groups
Unlike a dietitian or a physical therapist, who focus on specific diets and exercises, wellness coaches try to make general changes that will benefit their clients’ overall well being. This approach can be particularly useful for clients who have health conditions that add to their stress, or who are struggling with anxiety or depression.
Depending on your training, you can choose to work one-on-one with a single client or as part of a small team. Virtual coaching is also on the rise and gives you more flexibility in your schedule. Group sessions also abound, and they can be held in person or virtually, with participants likely to have common goals for improvement such as weight loss or getting better sleep.
Athletes
A wellness coach helps people overcome their health problems by developing a plan that focuses on diet, exercise, stress management and mental well-being. They work closely with their clients, creating a close working relationship that makes it possible for them to establish lasting changes and create lifelong healthy habits.
They can also work in a corporate environment, providing wellness services to employees in order to promote good health and reduce employee healthcare costs. These services are effective and have been shown to reduce illness rates, improve productivity and increase employee satisfaction.
Often, wellness coaches are used in conjunction with personal trainers, nutritionists and dietitians. They help their clients break down their goals into manageable, actionable steps and keep them accountable through weekly face-to-face meetings. A successful wellness coach will also be able to work with their clients to develop a sense of purpose and enhance their ability to connect with others.