Wellness – sometimes referred to as Health – Coaching is a highly rewarding profession, as you work with others to better multiple aspects of their life. Considering working towards a certification for wellness coaching is a big decision, but we’re here to help you better understand what this profession entails and the steps you can take to achieve your Wellness Coach Certification. While the term “health coach” may seem oversaturated in today’s industry ad the certification process daunting, understanding the multifaceted skillset a quality coach possesses allows the professional to set them self apart as a valued asset to clients.
What Exactly Does a Wellness Coach Do?
A wellness or health coach works WITH, not for, individuals to help them determine, define, and achieve goals related to one of the many aspects of health and wellness. Wellness coaching hinges on the belief that the individual has all the tools they need for bettering themselves already within them, yet they may need guidance in realizing and unlocking said tools and motivation.
Wellness/health coaches utilize strategies of communication skills to develop a trust-based relationship with clients; behavioral change to identify strategies and potential challenges in making a lifestyle change; and motivational interviewing to empower the client to take ownership of said changes.
Obtaining a certification for health coaching provides a fitness professional with skills beyond exercise science and programming to better connect with and coach individuals toward healthy change.
How Can I Start?
Expanding your career to include wellness coaching services begins with obtaining a reputable certification. NETA recommends dedicating sufficient time to study the concepts and skills associated with wellness coaching. Exam candidates should be proficient in topics such as adult learning concepts, interpersonal communication skills, theories and models of behavioral change, motivational interviewing, goal-setting, and overcoming barriers to change.
Putting the aforementioned concepts into practice is essential for influencing effective behavior change. Many of the skills take time and concentrated effort to hone; however, dedicated focus will allow the coach to better connect with clients and further their steps toward success, and skills do indeed become more natural and intuitive with time.
I Still Have Questions…
Take a look at our Wellness Coaching FAQs to find more information on achieving your certification for health coaching, and how to start gaining clients once you’re there.
For other questions please give us a call or fill out the form below.
