Choosing a Health Coach vs. a Functional Medicine Practitioner - Which is the Right Fit?

If someone has the option to work with a health coach and a functional medicine practitioner, why would someone choose a health coach?
I had a client ask me this the other day, so I’m guessing it’s something you may be questioning, as well.
If you don’t know my personal background, I practiced as a chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner 12 years ago before I decided to make the switch to health coaching.
And yes, now I’m a business mentor to other health coaches, but that is a story for another day ;)
That being said, I have personal experience working as both a functional medicine practitioner and a health coach.
And that experience has shown me the differences and the advances and disadvantages to both.
I know one of the biggest obstacles most new health coaches face is the question of, ‘why would anyone ever choose to work with lil ‘ol me?’
And I’m going to share why in today’s video.
Really embracing this knowledge will be a game changer for your confidence.
If you're interested in working together to build your business, you can find out more and apply here: kristinhartjes.com/apply
Watch my free training that shows you the 6 steps to attract consistent clients in your coaching business (in a way that feels authentic and aligned): kristinhartjes.com/consistentclients
Come connect with me on Instagram: kristinhartjes
If you liked this video, please give it a thumbs up, subscribe, share it with your friends.
Additional related videos you may find helpful:
Unlock the Secret to Unshakable Confidence as a Health Coach
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How to Create a Health Coaching Program that Gets Results
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How to make your signature health coaching program: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4izfJKpeciGsNE
How to choose your ideal client: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4m9e5d5Z8uratE
What qualifications you need to be a health coach: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aqTQqaGQaZmojtE
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How to master your sales calls as a health coach: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYO5lqiPqqdkqNU
CONNECT WITH ME:
Website: www.kristinhartjes.com
Podcast: www.buzzsprout.com/2067209/share
Instagram: kristinhartjes
Facebook: hartjesnaturalmedicine/
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[@KristinHartjes]

I'd love to hear your biggest take-away from today's video. Let me know in the comments. Thanks for watching! :)

[@AmandaBeckett-w8c]

As an Ayurvedic Health Counselor new to coaching, I appreciate this perspective. It gives me some good talking points to share as I try to bring in clients. (it's been hard!)

[@KristinHartjes]

Oh yay! So glad to hear that! Yes, really helps you get clients when you truly understand how powerful your coaching can be. ;)

[@nurserobin9590]

I appreciate this video so much! You are the best!

[@KristinHartjes]

Yay!!! I'm so glad to hear that Robin! Lots of love to you lady! xo

[@mariahJT]

Hi Kristin, I know this isn't' completely relevant to this video. But I was wondering if you had any recommendations for health coaching certification programs. I am wanting one that includes business curriculum, coaching skills, and incudes curriculum focused on autoimmune diseases. I know that is quite specific but even if you could point me in the right direction. It all feels very overwhelming when you see all the health coaching programs out there. Also, I very much trust your opinion and advice. Thanks in advance and thanks for all your helpful videos! :)

[@KristinHartjes]

Hi Mariah. I personally have not taken a health coaching certification so I can't recommend one from experience. My clients have done so many different ones and have liked them. I do know that most people need business support outside of what is offered in any coaching program so I wouldn't necessarily prioritize that or choose a program because of that. I would also keep in mind what you can and can't do as a coach when choosing a program. Functional medicine and specific nutrition recommendations are not typically in a coach's scope of practice. I also don't think that the more expensive ones are better, so I'd choose based on which one resonates with you and your interests most. Glad you're finding the videos helpful! :)

[@jez-bird]

Functional medicine does looks at all the areas of someone life. That is the FM matrix.

[@KristinHartjes]

Functional medicine practitioners may ask about all the different areas, but don't necessarily have the time or training to address them with their clients.

[@erinmaillo7754]

Yes-I really got a lot out of this video. What if someone has IBS? Do you still think that doing health coaching is better than going first to do labs with a functional medicine practitioner? Or potentially beneficial to do both?

[@KristinHartjes]

It really depends on the individual's situation. If someone is having extreme or sudden symptoms I would suggest labs in the beginning to rule out something that may require more specific treatment. This is where doing a thorough intake and having a good understanding of what is likely causing the issues is important....is it more likely due to lifestyle? Or infection?

[@erinmaillo7754]

Do you think a health coach can help a client interpret those results? Or is it better to refer to a functional doctor?@@KristinHartjes