📋 ABOUT COACHING
Q: What is health coaching?
A: Health coaching is a partnership where I guide and support you in making sustainable lifestyle changes to improve your health. Unlike a doctor who diagnoses and prescribes treatment, or a trainer who just tells you what exercises to do, a health coach helps you identify your goals, overcome obstacles, build new habits, and stay accountable—all while respecting your unique circumstances and needs.
As an ICF Accredited Certified Coach, I use evidence-based coaching methodologies combined with practical guidance on fitness, nutrition, and diabetes management.
Q: How is health coaching different from therapy or counseling?
A: Coaching focuses on moving forward toward your goals, not processing past trauma or diagnosing mental health conditions. While therapy explores the "why" behind behaviors and addresses mental health issues, coaching focuses on the "how" and "what's next"—creating actionable strategies to achieve your health goals.
If you're dealing with significant mental health challenges, I may recommend working with a therapist alongside coaching.
Q: How is coaching different from working with a dietitian or personal trainer?
A: Great question! Here's the difference:
Dietitian/Nutritionist: Provides meal plans and nutrition guidance (one piece of the puzzle)
Personal Trainer: Provides exercise programming and form coaching (one piece)
Diabetes Educator: Teaches about diabetes management (education-focused)
Health Coach (me): Integrates ALL of these elements PLUS behavior change, habit formation, mindset work, and accountability. I address the whole picture—fitness, nutrition, habits, motivation, obstacles—all tailored specifically for chronic illness management.
Think of it as comprehensive support, not just one piece of the puzzle.
Q: Do I need to be on medication to work with you?
A: No, not at all. I work with clients at all stages of diabetes and chronic illness management:
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Newly diagnosed and not yet on medication
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Managing with diet and lifestyle alone
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On oral medications
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Using insulin or other injectables (like GLP-1s)
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Dealing with complications
Your medication status doesn't matter—what matters is your readiness to make sustainable changes and your commitment to your health.
Q: What if I've tried everything and nothing works?
A: I hear this often, and I believe you—you HAVE tried a lot.
Here's what I've learned:
What probably hasn't worked:
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Rigid diets that don't fit your life
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Extreme restrictions or elimination
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Willpower-based approaches
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Generic advice that doesn't consider YOUR situation
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Going it alone without support
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All-or-nothing thinking
What DOES work:
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Small, sustainable changes (not dramatic overhauls)
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Strategies tailored to YOUR life, body, and preferences
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Addressing obstacles before they derail you
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Building systems, not relying on motivation
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Compassionate accountability
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Understanding WHY things work (not just what to do)
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Patience and consistency over time
The difference isn't trying harder—it's trying SMARTER with the right support.
Many of my most successful clients said "nothing has ever worked" when they started. The difference is sustainable strategies + ongoing support + personalized approach.
🏥 DIABETES & HEALTH
Q: Do you work with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes?
A: I primarily work with Type 2 diabetes, as that's my lived experience and specialty. However, the habit formation, behavior change, and fitness strategies I teach can benefit anyone managing diabetes or chronic illness. If you have Type 1 diabetes and are interested in coaching, let's discuss your specific needs during a discovery call.
Q: What if I have complications like neuropathy, retinopathy, or kidney issues?
A: I work with many clients who have complications. All fitness and nutrition strategies are tailored to your specific situation and limitations. We work WITH your body, not against it. I always recommend you maintain regular communication with your healthcare team, and I'm happy to coordinate with them if needed.
Q: What if I have diabetic complications?
A: I absolutely work with clients who have complications. In fact, I've experienced complications myself, which makes me uniquely qualified to support you.
Complications I commonly work with:
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Neuropathy (nerve damage)
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Retinopathy (vision issues)
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Nephropathy (kidney concerns)
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Cardiovascular issues
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Gastroparesis
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Foot issues
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Mobility limitations from complications
How we adapt:
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All fitness programming customized to your abilities and limitations
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Safe progression strategies that respect your body's needs
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Modifications for pain, balance issues, or reduced sensation
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Collaboration with your healthcare team
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Focus on what you CAN do, not what you can't
My experience with complications taught me:
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It's not too late to make positive changes
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Small improvements can have big impacts
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Your body is more capable than you think
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Compassionate support matters
You don't need to be "healthy enough" to start coaching—come as you are.
Q: Will coaching replace my doctor or diabetes educator?
A: Absolutely not. I work alongside your healthcare team, not instead of them. Your doctor manages your medical care and medications. I help you implement their recommendations, build sustainable habits, and provide accountability and support. Think of me as a partner who helps you navigate the day-to-day reality of living with your condition.
What I DO provide:
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Coaching to help you implement your doctor's recommendations
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Support in building lifestyle habits (nutrition, fitness, stress management)
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Accountability and motivation
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Strategies for sustainable behavior change
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Help navigating the daily realities of living with diabetes
I work ALONGSIDE your healthcare team:
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You continue seeing your doctor/endocrinologist regularly
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I may suggest questions to ask your doctor
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With your permission, I can communicate with your healthcare providers
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All medication changes are between you and your doctor
Coaching + medical care = best outcomes
Q: What if I'm on medications/insulin?
A:Most of my clients are on diabetes medications, and that's completely fine!
We work with whatever medications you're taking:
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Metformin
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GLP-1s (Ozempic, Mounjaro, Trulicity, etc.)
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SGLT2 inhibitors
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DPP-4 inhibitors
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Sulfonylureas
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Insulin (basal, bolus, or both)
What we do:
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Learn how your medications work and how food/exercise affects them
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Monitor blood sugar patterns in relation to meals and activity
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Implement lifestyle strategies that complement your medications
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Track improvements so you and your doctor can discuss medication adjustments
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Prepare you for the possibility of reducing/discontinuing meds (with doctor approval)
Important:
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I never tell you to stop or change medications—only your doctor can do that
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Many clients are able to reduce medications as lifestyle improves—this is a conversation with your doctor
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Some people will always need medications, and that's okay too
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The goal is optimal health, not necessarily being medication-free
Q: What if I have other health conditions too?
A: I work with clients who have multiple chronic conditions. This is actually very common with diabetes.
Conditions I commonly support alongside diabetes:
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High blood pressure/hypertension
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High cholesterol
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PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
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Thyroid issues
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Arthritis
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Obesity
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Fatty liver disease
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Depression/anxiety
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Sleep apnea
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Autoimmune conditions
How we approach multiple conditions:
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Holistic strategies that address multiple issues simultaneously
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For example: Exercise helps blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, mood, and sleep
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Nutrition strategies that support all your conditions
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Coordination with all your healthcare providers
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Recognition that you're managing a lot—compassionate pacing
Often, improving diabetes management positively impacts other conditions too.
PRICING & PAYMENTS
Q: How much does coaching cost?
A: My coaching services range from $175 for a single session to $550-650/month for ongoing comprehensive packages. Transformation Coaching (comprehensive support including fitness and nutrition) starts at $650/month for 4 sessions. Fitness-Focused Coaching starts at $550/month for 4 sessions. Single sessions are $175 each. I offer package discounts for 3-month commitments. View detailed pricing on my Investment page.
Q: Is coaching covered by insurance?
A: Most health insurance doesn't cover coaching directly. However, you may be able to use HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) funds for coaching services. Many clients successfully use these accounts for my services. I provide detailed receipts and can offer a letter of medical necessity if needed. I recommend checking with your HSA/FSA administrator about coverage for health coaching services.
Q: Can I use my HSA or FSA for coaching?
A: Yes, many clients successfully use their HSA/FSA cards for coaching services. Health coaching may be considered an eligible expense, especially when you have a letter of medical necessity from your doctor. I provide detailed receipts that include all the information needed for HSA/FSA reimbursement or submission. Check with your specific plan to confirm eligibility.
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: Most health insurance plans don't directly cover health coaching services. However, there are several ways to make coaching more affordable:
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HSA/FSA funds can often be used (check with your plan administrator)
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I provide detailed receipts and can supply a letter of medical necessity if needed
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Some employers offer wellness benefits that may cover coaching
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Payment plans are available for multi-month packages
I recommend checking with your insurance provider or HSA/FSA administrator about eligibility.
Q: Can I really afford this?
A: I completely understand budget concerns. Here's how to think of it:
What coaching costs:
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Transformation Coaching: $650/month
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Fitness-Focused: $550/month
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Single Sessions: $175 each
What NOT investing costs:
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Continued medication expenses: $200-500+/month
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Risk of complications: Thousands to tens of thousands
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Trial-and-error with fad diets/programs: $50-200/month with poor results
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Years of frustration without progress: Priceless time and quality of life
Consider:
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Many clients reduce medication costs as lifestyle improves
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Skills learned last a lifetime (not just during coaching)
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Single sessions available for more budget-conscious approach
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Payment plans available for multi-month packages
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HSA/FSA funds may be used
The investment in coaching often pays for itself through reduced medical expenses and improved quality of life.
Q: Do you offer discounts or payment plans?
Discounts available:
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3-month packages: Save 10% on Transformation and Fitness-Focused coaching
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Occasional early-bird rates for new program launches (join email list for notifications)
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Referral bonuses for existing clients who refer others
Payment plans:
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Available for 3-month commitment packages
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Simple monthly payments, no interest
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Discuss options during your discovery call
Other ways to save:
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Start with single sessions to test fit, then upgrade to packages
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Use HSA/FSA funds if eligible
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Some employers offer wellness benefits that may cover coaching
Q: What's your cancellation/refund policy?
Session Cancellations:
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24-hour notice required to reschedule without charge
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Less than 24 hours: Session is forfeited
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Emergencies evaluated on case-by-case basis
Package Cancellations:
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Month-to-month packages: Cancel anytime with 1-week notice
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3-month packages: Commitment required for discounted rate
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All packages can be paused with advance notice (life happens!)
Refund Policy:
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First Session Guarantee: If you're not satisfied after your first paid session, I'll refund your investment—no questions asked
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After first session: No refunds on completed sessions
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Unused sessions in packages: Prorated refund available within first month
I want you to feel confident in your investment, which is why I offer the first-session guarantee.
Q: What if I need to pause my coaching?
A:Life happens, and I completely understand! Here's how pausing works:
Reasons to pause:
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Medical issues or surgery
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Family emergencies
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Work/travel commitments
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Financial changes
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Any life circumstance
How to pause:
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Give 1-week advance notice when possible
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We'll discuss your situation and expected return
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No penalty or fees for pausing
During pause:
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Your package pricing is protected (no rate increase when you return)
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You keep any unused sessions
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No ongoing charges during pause
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I remain available for brief questions via email
Resuming:
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Pick up right where we left off
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Typically resume within 2-4 weeks
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Flexible scheduling to ease back in
Most clients pause 1-2 times during their coaching journey—it's completely normal!
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
Primary methods:
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All major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover)
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Debit cards
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Secure online payment processing
Also accepted:
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Personal checks (for in-person sessions, established clients only)
Not accepted:
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Cash
Payment timing:
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Monthly packages: Automatic credit card charges on the 1st of each month
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Single sessions: Payment due at time of booking (checks must clear before session)
SESSIONS & SCHEDULING
Q: How long are coaching sessions?
A: Standard session length: 60 minutes (one hour)
What happens in 60 minutes:
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First 5-10 minutes: Check-in, progress review, wins celebration
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Middle 40-45 minutes: Core work (coaching conversation, fitness training, nutrition planning, problem-solving)
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Last 5-10 minutes: Action plan, next steps, scheduling
For Transformation Coaching sessions: Fitness training is integrated throughout—we might talk strategy while doing exercises, or alternate between movement and coaching conversation. It's fluid and personalized.
For Fitness-Focused sessions: More emphasis on active training time, but coaching principles still guide the session.
Initial assessment sessions may run 75-90 minutes to ensure thorough evaluation.
Q: How often do we meet?
A: Recommended frequency:
Transformation Coaching:
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Standard: Weekly (4 sessions/month)
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Accelerated: Twice weekly (8 sessions/month) for intensive support
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Maintenance: Bi-weekly (2 sessions/month) after foundations established
Fitness-Focused Coaching:
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Standard: Weekly (4 sessions/month)
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Best results with consistent weekly rhythm
Single Sessions:
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As needed: One-time or occasional check-ins
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Some clients use monthly single sessions after completing a coaching program
My recommendation: Weekly sessions for first 3 months to build strong foundations, then adjust based on your progress and needs.
Q: Can sessions be virtual or do I need to come in person?
A: Both options available!
Virtual Sessions (Video Call):
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✓ Available anywhere with internet connection
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✓ Conducted via Zoom or similar platform
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✓ Works for all coaching conversations
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✓ Fitness training via demonstration and observation
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✓ Same quality of coaching as in-person
In-Person Sessions (Brooklyn, MI area):
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✓ Face-to-face connection
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✓ Hands-on form corrections for fitness
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✓ Available at my location or potentially your preferred gym
Hybrid approach:
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Many clients do a mix: some sessions virtual, some in-person
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Flexible based on your schedule and needs
Most clients choose: Virtual for convenience, with occasional in-person sessions for hands-on training support.
Q: What if I need to reschedule a session?
A: Rescheduling is easy:
Give 24+ hours notice:
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No charge, no penalty
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We'll find a new time that works
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Sessions roll forward
Less than 24 hours notice:
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Session is typically forfeited
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Emergency situations evaluated individually
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I understand life happens!
How to reschedule:
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Email or text me as soon as you know
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I'll send new available times
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Book your new session
Recurring sessions:
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We can adjust standing appointments as needed
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Let me know if your schedule changes long-term
Q: What do I need for sessions?
A: For All Sessions:
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✓ Quiet space where you can talk privately (virtual)
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✓ Notebook or device for taking notes
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✓ Open mind and willingness to be honest
For Fitness-Focused/Transformation Sessions:
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✓ Comfortable workout clothes
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✓ Water bottle
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✓ Space to move (if virtual: about 6x6 feet)
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✓ Yoga mat (optional but helpful)
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✓ Any equipment you have (dumbbells, bands—not required)
For Virtual Sessions:
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✓ Stable internet connection
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✓ Device with camera (phone, tablet, or computer)
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✓ Zoom or video platform (I'll send link)
You don't need a gym membership or fancy equipment—we work with what you have!
Q: What happens in the first session?
A: Your First Session - Initial Assessment (75-90 minutes):
Part 1: Getting to Know You (20-30 min)
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Your health history and diabetes/chronic illness journey
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Current challenges and frustrations
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What you've tried before (what worked, what didn't)
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Your daily routines, lifestyle, and support system
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Your goals: What does "thriving" look like for you?
Part 2: Assessment (20-30 min)
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Health metrics: Current A1C, blood sugar patterns, medications
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Nutrition patterns: What/when/how you eat, challenges
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Movement/fitness: Current activity level, limitations, past injuries
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Habits and behaviors: What's working, what's not
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Stress, sleep, and lifestyle factors
Part 3: Creating Your Plan (20-30 min)
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Priorities: What to focus on first
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Quick wins: Immediate actions you can take
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Potential obstacles: What might get in the way
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Your customized coaching plan
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Next session planning
You'll leave with:
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Clear understanding of where you are
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Specific action steps to implement immediately
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Confidence that we can work together effectively
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Your next appointment scheduled
GETTING STARTED & LOGISTICS
Q: How do I get started?
A: Simple 3-step process:
Step 1: Schedule Free Discovery Call (30 minutes)
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Go to my website and click "Schedule Discovery Call"
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Choose a time that works for you
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We'll have a no-pressure conversation about your situation and goals
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Determine if coaching is right for you and if we're a good fit
Step 2: Decide & Book First Session
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If we're a good fit and you want to move forward, you'll book your first coaching session
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Choose in-person or virtual
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Pay online when you book
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Receive confirmation and session details
Step 3: Show Up for Your First Session
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We'll do a comprehensive assessment
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Create your personalized coaching plan
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Start making progress immediately
That's it! Most people go from "thinking about it" to first session within 1-2 weeks.
Q: What happens in the free discovery call?
A: The discovery call is a casual, no-pressure conversation to see if we're a good fit.
We'll discuss:
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Where you are right now with your health and diabetes management
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What's been challenging or frustrating
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What you've tried before (what worked, what didn't)
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Your goals: What would "success" look like to you?
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How coaching works and what to expect
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Which service might be the best fit for your needs
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Logistics: scheduling, pricing, next steps
What the discovery call is NOT:
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A sales pitch
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Pressure to commit
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Judgment about your current situation
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A full coaching session (that comes later!)
You'll walk away with:
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Clarity on whether coaching is right for you right now
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Understanding of what working together would look like
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At least one helpful insight you can use immediately
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No obligation to move forward
Even if we decide we're not the right fit, you'll leave with more clarity.
Q: What if I'm not sure I'm ready?
A: This is so common, and it's actually a good question to explore!
Signs you might be ready:
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Tired of the start-stop cycle
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Willing to show up consistently (even when it's hard)
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Open to trying new approaches
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Ready to be honest about what's not working
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Want support and accountability
Signs you might NOT be ready yet:
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Expecting a quick fix or magic solution
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Not willing to make time for sessions
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Want someone to "fix" you without your participation
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In crisis mode (medical emergency, major life upheaval)
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Looking for someone to tell you exactly what to do without your input
If you're not sure:
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Schedule a discovery call to explore it together
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Be honest about your hesitation
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Start with a single session to test the waters
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There's no shame in "not yet"—timing matters
Remember: You don't have to be "ready" to be perfect. You just need to be ready to try.
Q: Can my spouse/partner be involved?
A: Absolutely! Partner involvement can be incredibly helpful.
Ways partners can be involved:
Join sessions:
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Attend some or all coaching sessions with you (no extra charge)
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Especially helpful for nutrition and meal planning discussions
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Helps them understand your journey and how to support you
Participate in action steps:
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Cook healthy meals together
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Exercise together
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Support your habit changes
Support behind the scenes:
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Understand what you're working on
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Cheer you on
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Respect your boundaries (not food policing!)
We can discuss what makes sense for you during the discovery call.
Q: What if I don't live near Brooklyn, MI?
A: Not a problem at all! Most of my clients are virtual.
Virtual coaching works great because:
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✓ No travel time (more convenient)
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✓ Session from home, office, or anywhere
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✓ Same quality coaching as in-person
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✓ Fitness training works well via video (I demonstrate, you perform, I observe and correct)
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✓ Can work with clients anywhere in the US (or world!)
Technology needed:
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Stable internet connection
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Device with camera (phone, tablet, or computer)
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Quiet space for sessions
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That's it!
In-person sessions available if:
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You live in/near Brooklyn, MI area
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You prefer face-to-face connection
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You want hands-on form corrections for fitness
Many clients do a hybrid: mostly virtual with occasional in-person sessions.
Q: How long will I need coaching?
A: Honest answer: It varies by person and goals.
Typical coaching timelines:
Short-term (3-6 months):
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Build solid foundations
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Establish sustainable habits
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Learn key strategies
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Improve health metrics
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Feel confident managing on your own
Medium-term (6-12 months):
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Deeper behavior change work
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Navigate challenges and setbacks
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Refine strategies
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Address multiple areas (fitness, nutrition, stress, etc.)
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Build lasting transformation
Long-term (12+ months):
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Ongoing accountability and support
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Continue progressing toward goals
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Adapt to life changes
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Maintain momentum
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Prevent backsliding
My recommendation:
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Start with 3-month commitment to give coaching a real chance
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Most clients see significant improvements in 3-6 months
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Some continue longer for ongoing support (and that's great!)
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Others "graduate" and check in occasionally with single sessions
You're not locked in forever—we'll evaluate progress regularly and adjust.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Didn't Find Your Answer?
If your question wasn't answered here, I'd love to hear from you!
Contact me:
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Schedule a discovery call
I typically respond within 24 hours (weekdays).