Frequently Asked Questions

What is Health & Wellness Coaching?

The National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching has the following definition for health seekers: “Health & wellness coaches support clients in activating internal strengths and external resources to make sustainable and healthy lifestyle behavior changes. Health coaches use a client-centered approach wherein clients decide their goals, engage in self-discovery or active learning processes, and self-monitor behaviors to increase accountability, all within the context of an interpersonal relationship with a health coach.

Whatever goal the client sets, the health coach ensures that they are supported until the desired outcome is achieved. Our board-certified coaches display an unconditional positive regard for their clients and have trained to the highest standards in the profession which means that they have the skills and knowledge to walk alongside you on your path to your healthiest self."

The role of a H&W Coach is to empower clients to discover wisdom and expertise within themselves, through asking questions and reflecting what they are hearing in a way that promotes clients self-efficacy and growth. Whereas educators provide information and expertise, H&W Coaches approach sessions with a collaborative intent. Through empathy, optimism, and experimentalism they help clients identify a vision for long term health, focus on strengths, set SMART behavioral goals, and assist in tracking progress over time. The client is the expert, and is always in the driver’s seat of their coaching journey.

Sources:

National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching. What is a health coach? Retrieved September 27, 2023 from https://nbhwc.org/what-is-a-health-coach/

Moore, M., Jackson, E., & Tschannen-Moran, B. (2015). Coaching psychology manual, 126-128

What is the difference between Coaching and Therapy?

In simple terms, coaches help people who are not experiencing serious mental distress to create the future they envision for themselves. A therapist generally helps people who are in distress to heal emotional traumas and/or manage mental health conditions. While there may be an overlap in some skills or tools used by coaches and therapists, coaches are not clinical diagnosticians and are watchful to ensure they refer to licensed therapists if a client is showing signs they need an equipped mental health provider to help them on their journey.

Source:

Moore, M., Jackson, E., & Tschannen-Moran, B. (2015). Coaching psychology manual, 20.

I am a healthcare provider. How can Health & Wellness Coaching help my patients?

Behavioral Change Support: NBC-HWCs are trained to help patients adopt and sustain healthy lifestyle changes. They work closely with patients to set achievable goals, develop action plans, and overcome barriers to success.

Health Education: NBC-HWCs educate patients on various aspects of health and wellness, including nutrition, physical activity, stress management, sleep hygiene, and more. By empowering patients with knowledge, they can make informed decisions about their health.

Accountability and Motivation: Through regular coaching sessions, NBC-HWCs provide accountability and motivation to patients, helping them stay on track with their health goals. This support can significantly improve adherence to treatment plans and long-term health outcomes.

Emotional Support: Dealing with health issues can be emotionally challenging for patients. NBC-HWCs offer empathetic listening and emotional support, helping patients navigate the psychological aspects of their health journey.

Collaboration with the Healthcare Team: NBC-HWCs collaborate with physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure coordinated care. They communicate patient progress, identify potential concerns, and adjust coaching strategies as needed to align with medical recommendations.

Enhance patient engagement by addressing the behavioral and lifestyle factors that influence health outcomes. By working in tandem with physicians, HWCs contribute to a comprehensive approach to healthcare that promotes overall well-being and disease prevention.

Health and Wellness Coaching in Serving the Needs of Today’s Patients: A Primer for Healthcare Professionals https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7509728/

Does my insurance cover Health & Wellness Coaching (HWC)?

The NBHWC and other stakeholders have been working tirelessly with the American Medical Association towards HWC being covered through health insurance. In short, at present time, HWC is not covered through your health plan. If you would like to use your FSA/HSA to pay for health and wellness coaching services, you will need to consult with your physician first. Check out more on how to use your FSA/HSA HERE

1/24 update: CMS approved health and wellbeing coaching on a temporary basis as a Telehealth service for those with Medicare.

Is the information I share in Coaching sessions kept confidential?

Yes, all information shared with your HWC is completely confidential. Additionally, the client portal is HIPAA compliant.