Dallas Holistic Health Coach  tells Natural Awakenings Dallas readers in the January issue what to look for when choosing a Health Coach.

How to Choose a Health Coach

 by Kim Wilson Pollock

While the role of a physician to a patient tends to be authoritative, the role of a health coach is much more supportive. A health coach may work with clients on issues related to their health, nutrition, and lifestyle. They can provide guidance and support so that their clients can make sustainable changes in their diet, exercise routine, relationships, and career. Become happier and healthier by working with a health coach in 2014. Look for these fiveassets when hiring a health coach.

Positive Attitude: The most important part of choosing a health coach is working with someone that you like. Find a coach with a positive attitude, lots of enthusiasm and a passion for all things health and wellness. Your health coach should be someone you enjoy spending time with. Partnering with a health coach is an enjoyable experience, so find someone that always has a smile on their face and gives you positive feedback.

Motivating: Working with a health coach is going to require a little bit of change on your part. Your health coach should get you excited about making some changes to your lifestyle. Small, consistent changes over time will result in your success, so choosing a coach that continues to keep you motivated is key.

Supportive: Your health coach should put your goals first. They should listen to your needs, challenges and goals. Choose a health coach that customizes a plan that is right for you and supportive of your desires.

Action-Oriented: A good health coach will provide you with an easy, step-by-step plan to integrate new health and nutrition tips into your daily routine. You should have a clear idea on exactly how you will work together (in person, over the phone or online) and what resources you will receive (worksheets, recipes, weekly emails.Etc.).

Experienced: Make sure your health coach is certified. It's always a good idea to ask for client testimonialsand success stories. Some health coaches will allow you to contact them by email as a reference. Many coaches have expertise in specific areas like weight loss or disease prevention, so make sure their expertise matches up with your goals.

Kim Wilson Pollock is a board-certified holistic health coach dedicated to making a significant difference in people’s lives by helping them find their purpose, fulfill their desires and prevent illness by developing healthy eating habits. Contact her at KimWilsonPollock.com.

 I am publisher of Natural Awakenings Dallas Metroplex magazine.  For more article like this visit www.NADallas.com