What isn't a Health and Wellness Coach?

Rita Thompson

NBC-HWC, Mayo Clinic-certified Health and Wellness Coach

​1. A therapist- Health and Wellness coaching work is forward-looking. While emotions may arise, Health and Wellness coaches do not dissect past experiences for psychoanalysis. In some cases coaches may refer clients to mental health support if there are emotional complexities beyond our scope of practice. 
 
2. Problem-Solver - Clients are their own expert, meaning they decide the rate at which changes are made and the circumstances that surround those changes. When small attainable changes are made, a client gains self-efficacy and goals become larger with high levels of compliance. Occasionally, a Health and Wellness coach may reference clients to other practitioners (acupuncturists, local gyms, nutritionists, etc.) if the client explicitly states their interest.   
 
3. Nutritionist-Health and Wellness coaches cover a wider range of health and wellness than only healthy eating (although that is one common aspect of client’s work). 
 
4. Personal trainer- This is in the format of either in person, video chat, or phone call. No physical engagement is required.