Health coaching: What is it — and who can benefit from it?
A health and wellness coach can help you take on your health goals — and succeed.
Trying to achieve a healthier lifestyle? Good news: You’re not alone. And with the right support, making positive health changes becomes easier and less daunting.
Whether you’ve decided to embark on a weight-loss journey, start eating healthier, quit smoking or maybe need some extra support in managing a chronic condition, a health and wellness coach can help.
Keep reading to learn more about health coaching and see if it’s right for you.
What is health coaching?
Health coaching involves partnering and working one-on-one with a health and wellness coach to achieve long-lasting, positive changes to your health.
“Just like an athletic coach helps athletes develop skills and excel at their sport, a health and wellness coach can help you improve your health and overall well-being,” explains Gary Edwards, board certified health and wellness coach at Geisinger.
In this partnership, the coach supports, assists and educates you on your journey toward better health.
“Our clients really lead the process,” adds Edwards. “Many people know where they want to go, and we assist them in getting there.”
Who can benefit from health coaching?
If you’re looking to improve any aspect of your health and well-being, you can benefit from health coaching.
Health and wellness coaches can help those who want to:
- Achieve weight-loss goals
- Eat healthier
- Reduce stress
- Quit smoking or tobacco use
- Start a new exercise routine
- Manage a chronic health condition, including heart disease and diabetes
“We also offer support for people before and after gastric bypass surgery,” adds Edwards.
What to expect from health coaching
Whether you’re seeking short-term support to kickstart your fitness routine or more long-term coaching for managing a chronic condition or weight-loss journey, the health coaching process is truly tailored to you and your goals.
To start, your health and wellness coach will focus on getting to know you and understanding your personal goals.
“In the first couple sessions, you’ll identify your priorities,” explains Edwards. “Then, we’ll create a personal wellness plan including a wellness vision, short- and long-term goals and first steps.”
In the following sessions, held each week, month or every few months, you’ll work with your coach to review your progress, explore and resolve any barriers or issues and set a goal (or goals) for your next session.
“We know that everyone has ups and downs, and we’re here to help no matter where you are in your journey,” says Edwards.
Health coaching at Geisinger
Think health coaching may be right for you? Geisinger certified health and wellness coaches are ready to help you meet your goals. Here’s what you need to know:
- Coaching services are available at no cost for most Geisinger Health Plan members* and Geisinger patients.
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, coaching is provided over the phone.
- Most coaching sessions are 20 to 30 minutes long, but they can be tailored to your needs.
- There’s no limit or number of sessions you must complete.
If you have questions about health coaching, or if you’d like to set up a session, call us at 866-415-7138.
*Dependent on your health plan. Check with our wellness specialists to see if you’re eligible to receive health coaching.
Next steps:
