Adding Health Coaching to the Cancer Journey is Good Math!

Cancer is overwhelming - so many doctors, nurses, appointments, and visits!  Why in the world would someone also want to work with a health coach?

For the simple reason that cancer is overwhelming, and that in the overwhelm, we can lose not only our way but our hope.  

So, what does a health coach do?  

One of the foundational principles of health coaching is that the client is in charge. This means that clients direct the coaching sessions, setting the agenda based on their needs, goals, and experiences. Coaches facilitate discussions, but it is ultimately the client who determines the focus of each session. This empowers individuals to take ownership of their health and encourages them to explore their thoughts and feelings openly.

By allowing clients to lead, health coaching fosters a sense of autonomy and confidence. For cancer patients, this can be particularly liberating, as they often feel a loss of control during their treatment process. In this supportive environment, clients can express their concerns, aspirations, and challenges, helping them to regain a sense of agency in their health journey.

While the client is in charge, the coach brings a unique set of skills to the partnership. Coaches are not experts who provide answers; rather, they are trained to support clients in discovering their own solutions. This is achieved through deep listening, powerful questioning, and co-creating actionable plans.

• Deep Listening: Coaches listen attentively to understand clients’ perspectives, emotions, and motivations. This active listening builds trust and rapport, allowing clients to feel safe in expressing themselves.

• Powerful Questions: Coaches use thought-provoking questions to encourage clients to reflect on their goals and obstacles. This technique helps clients gain insights and clarity about their health journey.

• Co-Creating Plans: Together, the coach and client develop personalized action plans that align with the client’s values and aspirations. This collaborative effort ensures that the plans are realistic and meaningful.

• Supporting Accountability: Coaches play a crucial role in helping clients stay accountable to their goals. Regular check-ins and progress assessments provide the necessary support and encouragement, helping clients navigate the ups and downs of their journey.

Health coaching is a transformative process that empowers clients, particularly those facing the challenges of cancer. By emphasizing the client’s role in directing the session and the coach’s expertise in supporting personal growth, health coaching fosters a partnership that is both collaborative and effective. This approach not only helps clients achieve their health goals but also nurtures resilience and confidence in their journey toward wellness. Embrace the power of health coaching and take charge of your path to recovery—together, we can navigate this journey with strength and purpose.