How To Find the Best Health Coach for You

When starting your health and wellness journey, a health coach is a great supporter and ally. Health coaches are trained to work with clients to make sustainable lifestyle changes and reach their health and wellness goals. Sometimes health coaches are recommended by health care professionals to assist patients as they work toward improving their health. Other times find health coaches online or through friends and family.

But, if you want to start working with a health coach, where do you start? How do you find the best health coach for you?

Here is a guide to help you: Learn what questions to ask yourself before starting your health coach search. Understand which qualifications to look for in a coach. Know what makes a good coach. See where you can start your search.

Ask Yourself

Before you start working with a health coach, there are a few questions you will want to ask yourself. These will help you narrow down your search and provide you with some insight into what kind of coaching relationship you are looking for.

Why are you looking for a health coach?

Were you recently diagnosed or suffer from a chronic illness? Has your doctor or other medical professional recommended you work with a coach? Or are you just trying to live a healthier life?

There are hundreds of reasons why someone wants to work with a health coach and every single one is valid. You don’t have to have a chronic illness or have some lofty health goal to start on your wellness journey. However, knowing your reason why is an important first step along the way.

If you are looking for support in a specific area (chronic illness, nutrition, exercise, stress, etc), you should consider searching for a coach with expertise in that area. Many health coaches find themselves drawn to a specific niche. This allows them to focus on one area and offer their experience and insights to clients.

What are your expectations?

What do you expect out of your health coaching sessions? The answer to this question can range from something as specific as time and dates to meet to the goals you want to reach within your sessions. For example, if you expect to meet with your coach in person, then you can eliminate virtual-only coaches. Or, if you expect only to have one-on-one sessions, then you can eliminate group coaching sessions.

These expectations should also include your coaching relationship. Do you know you need a coach who is going to be firm in holding you accountable or someone a bit more compassionate when you misstep? Every coach has their coaching personality and style and you must be compatible. Setting your expectations ahead of time will help you know what questions to ask when you find a coach.

What to Look for in a Health Coach?

Certifications: Not all health coaches are created equally. When searching for a coach, make sure they are certified by a reputable National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching accredited program. The FMCA Health Coach Certification Program is accredited by the NBHWC and it was created in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine.
Area of Expertise: If you are looking for a health coach in a specific niche, ask about their qualifications for that niche. For example, if you want a coach that specializes in nutrition, ask if they are also a registered dietitian. If you need a coach who works specifically with diabetes clients, ask about their experience and qualifications.
Compatibility: As mentioned before, clients and coaches need to be compatible. Ask the health coach about their coaching style and approach. Compare that to the expectations you’ve set. Many coaches offer complimentary consultations that allow you the chance to get a feel for their coaching style.
Access: Account for practical considerations such as the coach’s location, fees, and availability. If trying to fit coaching sessions into an already busy day just causes more stress, it likely isn’t the right fit. The same can be said of cost and location. Ensure these aspects align with your availability and constraints.

What Makes a Good Health Coach?

Empathy: A good coach should be empathetic, understanding, and able to connect with your unique experiences and challenges.
Patience: Patience is essential as you navigate your health journey. A coach should support you at your own pace, without pushing you beyond your comfort zone before you are ready.
Flexibility: Every individual is unique, and a flexible coach can adapt their approach to meet your specific needs and circumstances.
Supportive: Look for a coach who is supportive, encouraging, and invested in your success. This positive reinforcement can make a significant difference in your journey.
Knowledgeable: Offering resources and information is an important part of being a health coach. These resources will help you better understand the science behind a healthier life.

Where to look for a Health Coach?

Health Coaching Databases: Explore health coach databases, such as the FMCA Find a Health Coach page. Our database includes coaches located around the world. You can search specifically for NBHWC board-certified health coaches on the NBHWC website.
Professional Referrals: Consult with healthcare professionals who can provide trusted recommendations based on your specific health needs. Health coaches often work as part of a collaborative care team, many of whom work within physician offices specifically to work with their patients.
Personal Recommendations: Ask your friends and family if they know a health coach that they recommend. Post on social media to ask your extended social circle. You never know who may have worked with a coach in the past, or know someone who is a coach.
Health-related Businesses: Local gyms, spas, and other health-related businesses may have a health coach they recommend. Some coaches may even offer their services through those businesses.

By considering these factors and asking the right questions, you can make an informed decision to find the best coach for you. Just remember to understand your expectations, ask about certifications, and know your goals before you start your search and take the first step on your journey to health and wellness.