Health coaching: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What health coaching is

Health coaching is a set of sessions where a coach works with you on habits such as eating, activity, sleep and stress. The coach sets goals and offers accountability alongside your own healthcare providers, not in place of them.

Signs you need it

  • You want help sticking to healthy habits
  • Your doctor encouraged you to make lifestyle changes and you want support
  • You start plans but lose steam after a few weeks
  • You want structure for sleep, meals or activity
  • You feel unsure how to fit healthier habits into your schedule

What the pro does

  • An intake on your habits, routines and goals
  • Setting small, specific goals for eating, movement, sleep or stress
  • Regular check-ins to review what worked and adjust
  • Practical tools such as meal planning or routines
  • A plan for keeping habits going after coaching ends

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • Coach's training and background
  • Session length and frequency
  • Messaging between sessions
  • In person or video
  • Group or one on one
  • Package or session based

What a written quote should spell out

  • Number and length of sessions
  • What support is included between sessions
  • Cancellation and refund terms
  • Which topics are in scope, and which need a doctor or dietitian
  • Any tracking tools or apps used

Questions to ask before you hire

  • What is your training, and what do you not cover?
  • Will you coordinate with my doctor?
  • How do you handle health conditions?
  • How do you set goals?
  • What do you do if I miss a week?
  • Who do you refer to for medical questions?

Red flags

  • Diagnosing conditions or telling you to change medication
  • Selling supplements as part of coaching
  • Promising weight or health outcomes
  • Vague answers about training
  • Telling you to skip your doctor's advice

What you can do yourself

You can track meals, set a bedtime and take short walks, but a coach brings structure. Talk with your doctor before changing your diet or activity, especially with health conditions or medication.

Licenses and permits

No license is usually required to offer coaching, so ask about training, any certification and how to verify it with the issuer, and ask for a client reference. Coaches are not a substitute for a licensed therapist or doctor, so check with your state or local agency if you are unsure what a coach may offer.

Health coaching questions

Is a health coach the same as a doctor or dietitian?

No. A coach supports habits. A doctor or dietitian handles medical advice and diet plans for conditions.

Do I need to see my doctor first?

If you have health conditions, yes. Talk with your doctor before starting.

Can a coach tell me what to eat?

A coach can help you build habits. For a condition-specific plan, see a dietitian.

How long does it take?

It varies. A good coach plans an end date with you.

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