A Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach (FMCHC) partners with individuals and groups in a client-centered process to support their health. FMCA graduates are trained to work closely with clients around all of the lifestyle factors (sleep/relaxation, exercise/movement, nutrition, stress, relationships) that influence health. They are experts in behaviour change and employ effective techniques such as motivational interviewing and appreciative inquiry. Health coaches possess the skills required to create connection, trust, and rapport. This directly leads to improved communication with the treating practitioner, a better understanding of the therapeutic plan, and a deeper commitment to following treatment recommendations. The coaching process is successful because it empowers clients to draw on internal strengths, develop self-knowledge, and embrace self-management strategies in order to make the often-challenging lifestyle changes necessary for optimal health.

An FMCHC has a solid understanding of the foundations of Functional Medicine. This background allows them to understand and, with the addition of their coaching skills, support the client to implement Functional Medicine treatment plans into their lifestyle. A health coach moves beyond the diagnosis-prescription model to co-create and execute a plan with the client that inspires him or her to a path of better health. Additionally, under the delegation of the treating practitioner, an FMCHC may be able to provide further assistance related to labs and supplements. An FMCHC does not assess, prescribe, diagnose, treat, or interpret results.

What we do:

• Lead / guide
• Inform
• Educate
• Support
• Facilitate discussion around change
• Adhere to a coaching structure/process
• Provide resources

What we don’t do:

• Prescribe
• Diagnose
• Treat
• Contraindicate a physician’s direction
• Provide therapy / psychological therapeutic interventions
• Provide specific diet/supplements and nutrition counseling

Our detailed Scope of Practice can be found here.