Joanne Wallis, Wellbeing Physiotherapist, Cambridge and Peterborough NHS FT

I embarked on the health coaching approach because of the possibility of positively effecting behaviour change, what I had been doing wasn't working and I wanted to be able to share my learning and experience.

Following the training of staff, treating patients and carers, and supporting them in using the coaching method, I have seen improved and beneficial outcomes, both on an individual basis and Trust-wide.

This has been a great opportunity for self-development. I have noticed a positive change in the way that people and colleagues engage with me since the training. I am a better practitioner and I am taken more seriously in my role as a health care professional because of the way I approach conversations. Patients are empowered to think about the reality of their situation, working to create options to resolve their own challenges, thus requiring less of my time.

I love health coaching, particularly how it empowers my clinical role, has improved my working life and relationship with it.

Joanne’s tips:



  • If the first journey doesn't work or is blocked - take a different route
  • Every conversation counts, so think before you speak
  • You are never more important than the process, but you are needed for the process to work
  • Be true to the words you utter, or you will trip up if you are not fully engaged

"Conversation doesn't just reshuffle the
cards. It creates new cards."

How talk can change our lives,
Theodore Zeldin

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