I recently finished listening to the “Health Coach Talk Podcast” by licensed psychologist Sandra Scheinbaum. In her latest episode, “Can Health Coaching Help With Depression?”, she shared fascinating insights from an Australian study published in The Lancet. This study found that lifestyle therapy was as effective (non-inferior) as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in reducing depression. This discovery is significant for health coaching, showing that a more holistic approach can be just as impactful as traditional therapy methods.

 

What Does This Mean for Health Coaching?

Health coaching utilizes principles from therapies like lifestyle therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing to guide clients toward better health. Coaches don’t directly perform these therapies unless licensed, but they incorporate foundational techniques to support mental, physical, and emotional well-being. The study’s findings affirm that health coaching isn’t just an alternative; it’s a valuable tool for mental health support. By focusing on holistic approaches, coaching can offer clients comprehensive wellness solutions with additional benefits that will be explored further.

The Mental Health Crisis and the Need for Solutions

There’s a growing mental health crisis globally, and the U.S. is facing a severe shortage of mental health professionals. According to The Commonwealth Fund, nearly half of all Americans will experience a behavioral health issue in their lifetime. Unfortunately, the demand for care is outpacing the supply of professionals, leaving many without the help they need. Additionally, traditional therapy can be costly and may last for years before clients see significant improvement.

Health Coaching: A More Accessible and Cost-Effective Solution

Here’s where health coaching shines. It’s not only more accessible but also more affordable than traditional therapy. With a focus on lifestyle changes and self-awareness, health coaches can often help clients achieve meaningful improvements in fewer sessions. And with the growing recognition of health coaching’s value, many healthcare providers now allow patients to pay for these services using their FSA or HSA, making it an even more cost-effective option.

When is Therapy Needed?

While health coaching can offer significant benefits, it’s important to recognize that some situations require the expertise of a medical professional, such as a licensed therapist. Health coaches can be a great resource for clients looking to improve their overall mental health, but more severe conditions may still require therapy or medical intervention.

Want to explore how health coaching could support your own mental health and well-being? Reach out to schedule a discovery call today!

-Coach Adam