As our society becomes more health-conscious, the demand for Health Coaches increases. But what is a Health Coach? How much do Health Coaches charge and how can you work with one?
Health Coaching explained
A Health Coach is a professional who helps people make nutritional and/or lifestyle changes that improve their overall health. They work with their clients to set goals and co-create action plans to help them reach those goals.
There are various ways you can work with a Health Coach. Many offer 1-2-1 sessions as well as more affordable group workshop options. If you are fortunate, your Employer may even advocate a Health Coach within their business.
While some Health Coaches work with clients on a general basis, others specialise in specific areas such as weight loss, lifestyle disease prevention, chronic disease management, stress reduction, or nutrition and much, much more. Doctors are increasingly referring their patients to Health Coaches as they have started to recognise the benefits of this type of support. Health Coaching is starting to become available in the NHS (UK) under the Personlised Care Initiative.
Benefits of working with a Health Coach
Studies have shown that working with a health coach can lead to improved health outcomes, including:
Weight loss
Lower blood pressure
Improved cholesterol levels
Improved physical and mental health
Increased energy and vitality
Better sleep quality
Improved digestion and gut health
Reduced stress levels
Improved relationships
Working with a health coach can also help you prevent lifestyle diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.
A health coach can help you set and reach your health goals, whilst giving you support and accountability. They can also help you learn about nutrition and exercise, and support you in making healthy changes that last.
How much does a Health Coach charge?
As the popularity of health coaching continues to grow, so does the demand for services. Health coaching is a relatively new field, and as such, there is no standard pricing model. Rates can vary greatly depending on the coach’s experience, qualifications, and location.
Health coaches typically charge between £50 and £200 per hour. Some may offer discounts for package deals or for those who commit to multiple sessions. To see and feel benefits from health coaching, it would be beneficial to see a Health Coach for a minimum of 4-6 months.
While the cost of health coaching may seem high at first glance, it is important to remember that these services can lead to significant improvements in overall health and wellbeing. For many people, the benefits of health coaching are well worth the investment.
How can I find a reputable Health Coach?
Ready to invest in your health and well-being? But how do you know if a health coach is qualified to help you? Here are a few things to look for:
A qualified health coach will have received training from an accredited program(s), make sure you ask to see their qualifications if they aren’t displayed on their website, email or office.
A qualified health coach will be certified by a professional organisation, such as the UK Health Coaches Association, IICT (International Institute for Complementary Therapists) or the Association of Naturopathic Practitioners. Again, ask if they can provide some evidence. An accredited Health Coach will be more than happy to share their qualifications and accreditations with you.
A qualified health coach will have experience helping people achieve their health and wellness goals. Look out for reviews and testimonials they may display in their marketing materials – do they look credible? Many Health Coaches also offer a free initial consultation which you can find out more about them and how they may be able to support you on your health journey.
Word of mouth. Ask your friends and family if they are able to recommend any Health Coaches to you, whether they are local or remote (if you don’t mind having your sessions remotely).
If you are interested in making lasting changes to improve your health and wellbeing, consider working with a certified health coach.
If you have any questions on the blog or how you may benefit from Health Coaching, please use the contact form to get in touch or send me an email.
Mariko
