Applied Behavior Analysis is a science devoted to understanding behavior in order to change socially significant behavior to a meaningful degree. While we often think of socially significant behaviors as academic, self-care, or leisure skills, health-related behaviors are of great social significance. According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, approximately half of the United States population is living with a chronic disease that could be prevented or mitigated by making lifestyle changes. While most individuals know what behaviors to engage in to improve their overall health and wellness, they do not make the necessary changes to improve their health.   

Health Coaching is a relatively new field. The role of a Health Coach is to partner with clients who wish to enhance their well-being by assisting them in making self-directed, lasting changes, that are aligned with their values. Behavior analysis can improve the effectiveness of health coaching in various ways which align with the dimensions described initially by Baer, Wolf, & Risley however, it is imperative behavior analysis practice within their scope of competence and training. 

This workshop will review various behavior analytic concepts that can utilized to improve the field of health coaching as well as provide guidelines behavior analysts should consider prior to practicing within the area of health and wellness.