What is a Health and Wellness Coach, and What Can (and Can’t) They Do?

Have you ever felt stuck when it comes to your health goals? Like you know what you should be doing, but you just can’t seem to put it into action? That’s where a Health and Wellness Coach comes in—a partner in your journey who helps you bridge the gap between knowing and doing.

Let’s explore who Health and Wellness Coaches are, the magic they bring to your health journey, and what they can (and can’t) do for you.

Who Are Health and Wellness Coaches?

Think of a Health and Wellness Coach as your personal cheerleader, guide, and accountability partner all rolled into one. They’re not here to lecture or prescribe—they’re here to listen, support, and help you design a healthier, more balanced life on your own terms. Whether it’s improving nutrition, building better habits, managing stress, or finding time for self-care, these coaches focus on empowering you to make sustainable changes.

The profession is rooted in positive psychology and behavior change science, making it all about discovering what works best for your unique lifestyle and goals.

What Can a Health and Wellness Coach Do?

Here’s where the magic happens! Health and Wellness Coaches specialize in:

• Guiding Your Goals: They work with you to uncover what truly matters to you—whether it’s eating better, staying active, or managing stress—and help you craft realistic and actionable goals.

• Providing Support and Education: Coaches share evidence-based tips on building healthier habits without overwhelming you. Need ideas for getting more veggies into your diet or sneaking in quick workouts? They’ve got you covered.

• Motivating You: When that pesky inner voice tells you to hit snooze instead of hitting the gym, your coach is there to keep you focused and inspired.

• Collaborating with Professionals: They often work alongside other healthcare providers, like doctors or therapists, to ensure your needs are met holistically.

In a nutshell, they empower you to show up as your best self—on your terms.

What Can’t a Health and Wellness Coach Do?

While they’re an essential part of your wellness journey, it’s important to know what a Health and Wellness Coach can’t do. They are not:

• Medical Professionals: Coaches can’t diagnose illnesses or prescribe treatments. That’s the realm of doctors and licensed medical practitioners.

• Dietitians: While they can offer general guidance on nutrition and healthy eating, they’re not licensed to create custom meal plans or provide medical nutrition therapy.

• Therapists: Coaches provide emotional support, but psychotherapy or counseling is outside their scope.

• Replacements for Healthcare Providers: Think of them as a complement to your healthcare team, not a substitute.

Knowing these boundaries ensures that your coach can focus on what they do best—helping you move forward.

Why Certification Matters

If you’re wondering how to spot a qualified Health and Wellness Coach, look for certification from the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). This credential means the coach has met rigorous standards in areas like behavior change theory, motivational techniques, and ethics. Working with a certified coach ensures you’re in good hands.

The Bottom Line

Health and Wellness Coaches are like navigators for your health journey—they help you chart the course, avoid the pitfalls, and celebrate the wins. While they’re not medical or mental health professionals, their expertise in habit-building and personal empowerment makes them invaluable partners in achieving your wellness goals.

If you’re ready to take your health and wellness to the next level, partnering with a coach might be just the nudge you need. Your goals are within reach—all you need is the right guide to help you along the way.