Health Coaching Objectives, Center for Spirituality and Healing, Academic Health Center at the University of Minnesota

Conceptual Framework

This program combines didactic and experiential learning in both classroom and clinical settings.  Instructional strategies include reading and web-based materials, dyad and small group interchange, large group demonstration, clinical immersion, and the power of relationships to teach.  A student’s relationship to their advisor/mentor, as well as to student partners and faculty coaches, will be invaluable.  Personal and familial relationships, as well as professional encounters, combine to create the unique healer that is a health coach.  This program will capitalize on all that its students bring to the program and are able to offer—in their roles as students, as coaches, and as teachers to their peers.

Program Objectives

• Client Care - Health coaches must be able to provide client care that is compassionate, appropriate, and effective for the treatment of health problems and the promotion of health. 

• Healthcare Knowledge - Health coaches must demonstrate knowledge about health and illness, the ability to gather and critically evaluate health information, and apply this to client care. 

• Practice-Based Learning and Self-Improvement - Health coaches must be able to investigate and evaluate their client care practices.

•  Interpersonal and Communication Skills - Health coaches must be able to demonstrate interpersonal and communication skills that result in effective information exchange with clients, client families, and professional associates. 
• Professionalism - Health coaches demonstrate a commitment to carrying out professional responsibilities, adherence to ethical principles, and sensitivity to a diverse population. 

• Systems-Based Practice - Health coaches must demonstrate an awareness of and responsiveness to the larger context and system of healthcare and the ability to effectively utilize system resources to provide optimal client care.