Health Improvement Practitioners & Health Coaches
Free, brief support within your GP clinic for practical wellbeing strategies
Health Improvement Practitioners and Health Coaches are part of the Integrated Primary Mental Health and Addictions programme. They offer free, brief support within your GP clinic.
Health Improvement Practitioners and Health Coaches focus on practical, evidence‑based support for your wellbeing.
How to Access These Services
You can ask reception, a nurse, or your GP whether a Health Improvement Practitioner or Health Coach is available at your clinic.
1. In some cases, you may be seen on the same day, or you can book an appointment depending on availability
2. Your GP may also introduce you directly if they feel this support would be helpful
Health Improvement Practitioners
Health Improvement Practitioners are registered health professionals who provide short, focused support to help manage challenges such as:
Stress, anxiety, or low mood
Sleep difficulties
Coping with physical health conditions
Relationship or family challenges
Alcohol or drug concerns
Sessions: Appointments are up to 30 minutes and take place within your GP practice. Sessions focus on practical strategies to improve day‑to‑day functioning and overall wellbeing.
Health Coaches
Health Coaches support you to build knowledge, confidence, and skills to better manage your physical health and healthcare needs. They can help with:
Healthy eating and physical activity
Understanding medications and treatment plans
Managing long‑term conditions (e.g. diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, gout, high cholesterol)
Preparing for and communicating with your healthcare team
Sessions: Appointments are 15–30 minutes, held in the GP practice, and focus on empowering you to be an active partner in your healthcare.
Āwhi Ora Community Support Workers
Āwhi Ora Community Support Workers provide practical, short‑term support to help you navigate life challenges. They can assist with:
Accessing health and community services
Work and Income and employment support
Financial advice and budgeting services
Connecting with support groups and social networks
Support: This is a "walk‑alongside" service offering up to three months of support to help you through a difficult period and maintain wellbeing.
Connecting You To Further Support
Health Improvement Practitioners and Health Coaches can connect you with additional services, including:
Individual therapy
Group programmes
Āwhi Ora community support
Smoking cessation services
Psychiatric services
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