Michael Arloski

Wellness coaching is helping people to improve their lifestyle behavior. It applies the principles of life coaching towards the goal of lifestyle improvement to higher levels of wellness. The clinical goal is to increase patient compliance and preventative health. A distinction is made between life coaching that focuses on health and wellness and wellness coaching. The later includes a more clinical approach trying to target specific health concerns. Many healthcare professionals merely pass along information where a coach helps the client affect the changes required to improve their health. Wellness coaches are either traditional coaches interested in wellness or wellness professionals interested in using coaching techniques to bring about lasting change. This book presents solid information about coaching foundations that meet the model recommended by ICF. It also places a heavy emphasis on Maslow psychology.

The book offers an overview of a number of wellness models. It gives just enough information to the reader to lead them on their own research project and provides a hefty reference section to help in that regard. Most in line with my own practice is Ardell's model that states every individual is responsible for their own health choices. A person can't move forward to positive change until they recognize and accept that responsibility. Ultimately, it's all about choices. You need to be aware of the choices you're making and decide whether they help or hinder your well being.

The number one threat to company profitability is healthcare costs. Over half of what determines our health comes from our lifestyle choices. Investing in wellness programs that include coaching can greatly decrease healthcare costs and improve quality of life.… (mere)