Integrative, Functional & Lifestyle Medicine
Health coaching
A collaborative service helps people set goals and build everyday health habits.
Overview
Coaches support motivation, planning, and accountability. Coaching alone is not diagnosis, psychotherapy, medical nutrition therapy, or prescribing. A coach who also holds a clinical license should clearly distinguish those roles.
What to expect
- Identify personally meaningful goals
- Explore barriers and strengths
- Choose small steps and review progress
Why people explore it
- People often explore it for accountability for daily habits.
- People often explore it for help turning a clinician’s plan into routines.
- People often explore it for support with realistic goal setting.
These are common reasons people look into it — not a sign that it's right for you.
What the evidence says
Practical, social or spiritual support
A source of support and connection rather than a clinical treatment.
Better supported
- Coaching provides structured goal-setting and behavior-change support.
Promising, but limited or uncertain
- Clinical outcomes vary by program, training, and context.
Not supported by evidence
- Coaching alone does not treat disease or replace licensed care.
Possible risks and precautions
- Medical or mental health concerns should go to an appropriately licensed clinician.
- Avoid coaches who prescribe supplements, diets, or medicine changes outside their licensed scope.
- Ask how sensitive information is stored and shared.
If you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicines, ask your healthcare provider first.
Who provides it
- Health coach titles are not medical licenses; requirements vary by state.
- NBC-HWC is a national coaching credential, not permission to diagnose or prescribe.
Questions to ask before booking
- What license or credential do you hold, and what is your scope of practice?
- What evidence supports this approach for my goals?
- What risks or modifications should I discuss with my healthcare team?
- How will we track progress and decide whether to continue?
- What will I pay, and do I need a referral?
Costs and coverage
- Fees depend on the provider, setting, and services offered; ask for a written estimate.
- Coverage and referral rules vary; check with your plan before booking.
Coverage changes often and differs by plan. Always confirm with your insurer and the provider.
Find this service
Search our free Find Help directory under “Community organizations”. Listings are information only — appearing there is not an endorsement.
Watch & learn
Related educational videos from trusted creators:
Think it through
What would I like to know about health coaching before deciding whether it's right for me?
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Sources
Content reviewed . Written for general education and not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician.
Educational only — not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Supportive wellness practices do not replace necessary medical or mental-health care. Options are not equally effective, and not every option is right for every person. Please talk with a qualified healthcare professional about your own situation. In an emergency, call your local emergency number; in the US, call or text 988 for crisis support. Emergency help