Cathy Liska Start with the definitions from the International Coaching Federation on coaching, a coaching relationship, and a coach:
- Coaching: Coaching is partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.
- A professional coaching relationship: A professional coaching relationship exists when coaching includes a business agreement or contract that defines the responsibilities of each party.
- An ICF Professional Coach: An ICF Professional Coach also agrees to practice the ICF Professional Core Competencies and pledges accountability to the ICF Code of Ethics.
 Now build out the same definitions with the health and wellness focus:
- Health and Wellness Coaching is a strategic partnership wherein the Coach works with the Client to clarify goals, develop strategies, create action plans, and move past obstacles. It is understood that the client is empowered to make their own choices in exploring how to educate them self, make decisions, and manage their health and wellness effectively with a focus on opportunity and follow-through for achievement of their optimal health and well-being.
- A Health and Wellness Coach is someone who is knowledgeable and professionally trained to support clients in exploring possibilities, defining priorities, creating strategies, clarifying objectives, developing action plans, moving past challenges, and progressing towards the outcomes the client chooses. The Health Coach serves the client with a focus on priorities and as an accountability partner.
