Onsite health coaches Courtney Shake and Nicole Rieman have settled into their offices in the ParTNers Center and are ready to help YOU pursue your best self. We asked Courtney and Nicole what inspired them to become health coaches and how they help people reach their health goals. Here’s what they said:
What led you to become a health coach?
Courtney: Ever since I was a young girl, I watched my grandmother manage her diabetes – her diet routine, checking her blood sugar, and the lows and highs she experienced. It led me to pursue a career in preventive health. I love to talk to people about wellness, even in the grocery store. It is my passion! The neatest part for me is watching their confidence grow as they build on small, specific changes that move them closer to their goals.
Nicole: My grandparents were physical education teachers and always told the family that exercising was important in preventing disease. My grandma had asthma as a child, and told us that she no longer had asthma as soon as she started exercising. My grandparents lived to be in their mid-90s, and we all attribute that to living healthy lifestyles. They inspired me to pursue a career in wellness and prevention, and I hope to share the wisdom I have about disease management and prevention with others as my grandparents imparted on me.
How do you help your members meet their goals and overcome barriers?
Courtney: I always meet each person where they are. I let the member lead, and I work alongside them on where they want to go. We all have things that affect our day-to-day routines. It’s fun for me to think outside the box with my members on how to jump hurdles that might come their way.
I also like to teach them about the value of mindfulness. Paying attention to what you are doing or experiencing, whether it’s eating healthier, moving more, managing stress, losing weight, etc. Learning to be mindful helps move them forward in health.
Nicole: I start by talking about what they’re already doing and find out what steps, if any, they’re taking to improve or maintain their health. Then, we delve into any gaps and focus on small changes that, over time, can lead to bigger changes. We generally set goals that last 4-8 weeks – goals that are small, measurable, attainable and realistic.
If a member is struggling, we look to see what that barrier is, and determine if it's something within their control or outside it. And then, together, we explore solutions.
What else would you like employees to know about you?
Courtney: I feel honored to be able to work with each and every member. I am fortunate to have a front row seat to other people’s “aha” moments! It’s so cool to see how people can re-think their routines and get creative. I love to find helpful ways to support people as they work toward their healthiest selves.
A favorite quote I like to think about is, “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all which have the potential to turn a life around.”
Nicole: We are here to help higher education and state employees interested in maintaining their health or making improvements lead a healthier life. We can assist with many lifestyle changes, including stress management, nutrition, sleep, weight loss, tobacco cessation, metabolic syndrome and pre-hypertension, as well as management of chronic conditions like diabetes, heart failure, coronary artery disease, hypertension and asthma.
I like to tell my members that it’s always the small pieces that make up the big picture. And taking that first small step can really make a difference. Sometimes picking up the phone and asking for help can be the hardest part, and that is where we can support you.
Are you ready for a helping hand? Give Nicole or Courtney a call at 615-770-1729. Or stop by the ParTNers Center and make an appointment.
You can earn wellness program incentives when you meet with a health coach. Learn more.