Turning adversity into motivation and support through Health Coaching

What motivated you to become a Health Coach?

My motivation is deeply rooted in my personal experiences, including narrowly escaping a house fire in my early 20s and my experience of post-natal depression. These experiences have driven me to ensure that others don’t feel overwhelmed by life’s difficulties, ultimately turning adversity into motivation to support others.

What are you doing now since graduating as a Health Coach?

I’m committed to doing what I can to make a difference in mental health. I’ve transformed my Health Coaching skills into a ‘portfolio business,’ working with a variety of organisations and individuals who share similar values, running my own private business, and contracting with the Taranaki Retreat. 

Is there a particular aspect of health coaching that you are especially passionate about?

I’m passionate about supporting individuals to live a fulfilling life alongside anxiety, and my proficiency in Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) plays a crucial role in achieving this. I love how ACT is such a practical tool that’s making a huge difference in my own and my client’s lives.

My dedication also extends to supporting start-up health coaches to help fast-track their progress and build confidence.

Putting ourselves ‘out there’ can bring up all sorts of difficult thoughts and feelings and can be crippling without the right skills and support.  

Could you share a specific success story where your coaching has made a significant positive impact on a client/patient’s life?

A 61-year-old job-seeker, burdened by anxiety and the belief that she was too old to get hired, sought my help. We worked together on noticing, naming and neutralising unhelpful thoughts that were stopping her from taking action towards her goal.

This enabled her to carry her anxiety with her to a job interview without succumbing to its grip. The result? She got the job. My guidance allowed her to apply new skills in her work environment, leading to improved financial freedom, travel opportunities, and friendships.

As a Health Coach, what challenges have you faced?

The journey of a Health Coach isn’t without its challenges. I faced the struggle of people not understanding the value of health coaching and the limitations of public funding. Internally, I faced self-doubt and anxiety. Clients continually challenged me, compelling me to learn and reflect on better ways to serve them. The intricacies of running a small start-up business added another layer to the journey.

How has your PREKURE training prepared you for the real-world scenarios you encounter as a Health Coach?

I can’t stress enough the value of PREKURE’s interactive training and the support available post-graduation. The ability to connect with other Health Coaches in the PREKURE community provides a substantial support network. While preparation is essential, stepping into the real world is where the true learning happens.

How has being a Health Coach enriched your life personally and professionally?

Becoming a Health Coach has been a profound personal and professional learning curve for me. I wake up every day with excitement, driven by the variety and challenges ahead. Having the flexibility and being able to be in control of my own schedule is also really important to me.

What advice would you give others considering a career or upskilling in health coaching?

Relax and trust the process. A health coaching career may not align exactly with your initial expectations, but it’s essential to be open to exploration, learn from failures, and embrace the journey.

What has it meant to you, to be part of the PREKURE community and be part of the movement to transform our healthcare system?

I love the supportive and positive nature of the PREKURE community. The team spirit, mutual support, and real solutions are being created in the community and making a difference.

What does the future look like for you?

I try not to get ahead of myself and just savour what’s happening right now. I have some goals for 2024 to really push me outside my comfort zone and to keep challenging myself so I can continue to learn and grow.

Is there anything else you would like to share with anyone considering a career as a Health Coach?

Life is short and not a rehearsal, so go for it!

Connect with Angela

If you are looking to connect with Angela and embark on a wellness journey, visit her website www.pearlwellness.co.nz or email [email protected].

Learn more about PREKURE’s Health Coach Courses and how you can turn your passion for health into a career and start on your journey to becoming a Health Coach.