Learn about wellness coaching, and how it can help you.

1. Wellness Coaching --FAQ’s
Provided by Marilyn Jess, RD, Licensed Wellness Coach
http://www.wellcoaches.com/marilyn.jess/
What is a wellness coach?
Wellness coaches are health/fitness professionals who support their clients in creating lifestyle change
such that clients get more of their own definition of wellness into their lives. A Licensed Wellcoach® is a
wellness coach who has been trained and certified by Wellcoaches Corporation, a Boston based
company that specializes in research/psychology based coach training for health professionals.
How does a Wellness Coach differ from a Nutritionist, Dietitian, or Trainer?
A Wellness Coach takes a much different approach when working with clients. A coach assumes that
you have your own answers, and that you come to the relationship ready to change. Certainly, there are
opportunities for education and sharing information when appropriate (and this information should be
shared only in the coach's areas of expertise), however the focus of a wellness coach is one of
empowering the client to clearly see for themselves the most appropriate path forward such that they
can make sustainable, long term lifestyle changes. This is much different than telling them what they
need to do today, or making a one size fits all diet/fitness plan for them. It involves discussing goals, a
vision, and designing an individual plan together.
A wellness coach will ask empowering questions to the client that re-enforce their compelling reasons to
make healthy lifestyle decisions rather than telling them the reason why they should make change. A
coach holds clients accountable for their own solutions. A coach will provide tools for motivation, goal
setting, self discovery and embrace the fact that no two clients will need to have the same approach in
making lifestyle change.
How are coaching services usually provided and paid for?
Most coaching is done on the phone, making it more convenient for both client and coach. Increasingly
it is being done in small phone groups. Insurance typically doesn’t reimburse for coach services. If
clients are ready to change, paying for services gives them a stake in their own success.
What are Marilyn’s credentials/qualifications?
I’ve been a registered dietitian since 1988, and hold a Masters in Nutritional Sciences from San Diego
State University. In 2007 I became a wellness coach through Wellcoaches Corp. I’ve developed a
specialization in email wellness coaching, working with clients such as the Duke Diet online.