Scope of Practice

Health & Wellness Coaches serve as catalysts for behavioural change, guiding clients of all backgrounds towards holistic well-being. They champion sustainable lifestyle changes, providing guidance, support, and unwavering accountability. As primary experts in supporting transformative journeys, they collaborate seamlessly with other healthcare professionals, serving as integral members of interdisciplinary teams.

The text below is written by my training provider, the Health Coaches Academy, and outlines my scope of practice as a Health & Wellness Coach.

What Health & Wellness Coaches do

The essence of coaching lies in collaboration, empathy, and empowerment. Our coaches delve into understanding each client's unique context, fostering a safe space for exploration and growth. By co-creating personalised plans, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation.

Key responsibilities

Client-centered approach - our coaches prioritise the client's autonomy, steering away from dictating solutions and instead fostering self-awareness and empowerment
Goal setting and accountability - through strategic goal-setting and regular check-ins, coaches empower clients to take ownership of their health journey
Liaison with healthcare professionals - recognising the value of collaboration, coaches liaise with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive support for clients

Guiding principles

1. Encouragement over directive - coaches encourage clients to define their wellness journey, steering away from imposing predefined notions of health

2. Empowerment through self-discovery - coaches inspire confidence by guiding clients to discover their inner strengths and resilience

3. Supporting autonomy - clients are encouraged to make informed choices and take responsibility for their health, with coaches serving as allies on this empowering journey

Recognising limitations and setting boundaries

While Health & Wellness Coaches play a pivotal role in guiding individuals towards optimal health, it's essential to acknowledge the boundaries of their practice and recognise the limitations therein. At the Health Coaches Academy, we emphasise the importance of ethical conduct and maintaining clarity regarding what falls within the realm of coaching and what exceeds its scope.

Understanding boundaries

Health & Wellness Coaches do not engage in diagnosing medical conditions, prescribing treatments, or offering psychological interventions. Instead, they operate from a holistic perspective, focusing on empowering clients to explore their own paths towards well-being. This distinction ensures that clients receive the appropriate support while respecting the expertise of other healthcare professionals.

Supporting not treating

It's crucial for coaches to understand that their role is not to ‘treat’ specific conditions but rather to support individuals in navigating their health journeys. By fostering self-awareness, resilience, and accountability, coaches empower clients to make informed decisions and take proactive steps towards their goals. This approach aligns with the principles of client-centered care, where the individual's autonomy and agency are paramount.

Navigating primary diagnoses

When clients present with primary diagnoses or complex medical conditions, coaches must tread carefully, recognising the need for collaboration with other healthcare providers. While coaches can offer valuable support in addressing lifestyle factors and behaviour change, they should defer to medical professionals for clinical assessments and treatment plans. This collaborative approach ensures that clients receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs.

Respecting professional boundaries

Maintaining clear boundaries is essential for upholding the integrity of the coaching relationship. Coaches should refrain from offering medical advice, making diagnoses, or prescribing interventions. Instead, they can guide clients in accessing appropriate resources, advocating for their well-being, and fostering open communication with their healthcare team.

Continued education and growth

As the field of health coaching evolves, it's imperative for coaches to stay informed about current best practices, ethical guidelines, and emerging research. By investing in ongoing education and professional development, coaches can enhance their skills, deepen their understanding of ethical principles, and navigate complex situations with confidence and integrity.

Conclusion

At the Health Coaches Academy, we prioritise ethical conduct, professionalism, and the well-being of both clients and practitioners. By recognising the limitations of our scope and respecting professional boundaries, we uphold the highest standards of care while empowering individuals to thrive on their wellness journeys. Together, we navigate the complexities of health and well-being, embracing collaboration, compassion, and integrity every step of the way.