Lifestyle Medicine for Adolescents
Self-Study | Course 9 | Virtual
Our Lifestyle Medicine for Adolescents course equips coaches with the knowledge to address health and wellness issues through coaching lifestyle interventions, covering topics like social determinants of health, prevention and self-management of chronic conditions, nutrition, physical activity, stress management, mental health, and substance abuse. Coaches will combine this knowledge with their basic coaching skills to support clients in health and well-being related goals to promote wellness.
We’ve had the pleasure of training youth coaches for:





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EXCELLENT Based on 63 reviews Posted on Sara Rossi Raccagni I decided to train with YCI because it was the only one with a solid scientific basis, which I believe is crucial from an ethical perspective. I completed both the Youth Resilience Coach and Youth Health Coach programs. It was the best investment I could have made: the instructors are highly trained and do know how to create the ideal environment for continuous growth.Posted on Fabio Friscia I highly recommend the services of YCI to anyone interested in improving their skills to coach young people. Between the material and the classes, their offer is absolutely stellar! I am giving just 5 stars because giving a hundred is not possible!Posted on Shahnaz Bonadurer I am very glad that I had the chance to take the Youth Well-being course at the Youth Coaching Institute. Being part of this community, meeting like-minded people, engaging in peer coaching experiences, and having access to many great resources, tools, videos, and meaningful conversations made a real difference in my coaching journey.Posted on Leslie C. Newbold Dr. Leah Mazzoula’s course at the Youth Coaching Institute is truly exceptional. It’s clear how much care and expertise went into creating a program that’s science-based, evidence-backed, and incredibly supportive. I highly recommend it to anyone working with teens, parents, or anyone looking to grow as a coach and human being.Posted on Heather Mooney Incredibly grateful that I was strongly recommended to attend this program by another YCI alum (the amazing Cyndy Etler "the teen life coach"). After completing my coaching certificate I *totally* get why Cyndy insisted I attend YCI when I shared the intentions of becoming a coach! It's been instrumentally helpful in a multitude of ways and much more of a mindset shift than anticipated. All of the instruction, coaching practice and mentoring has been integral to my success as a coach. Appreciate the ongoing positive regard, growth mindset, and perpetual support for our continued coaching development as we navigate the various pathways for our careers.Posted on Robert McClellan I entered this program hopeful, but unsure of what to expect. It exceeded my expectations in so many ways. The training was thorough, supportive, and engaging. I feel equipped and eager to continue this important work! Highly recommend.Posted on Claire Gatonby I work extensively with the youth and found the YCI Youth Coaching course very insightful and valuable. The combination of theory and practical with tips on how to use this in meaningful interactions was highly beneficial. I would recommend this course.Posted on Kody Hersh I appreciated YCI's model of independent self-study combined with live classes for coaching practice and discussion. The content of the self-study materials has been really helpful for me as a youth professional in refreshing my knowledge of adolescent development, and learning how to use that knowledge to provide effective support as a coach. Program leaders are gifted and knowledgeable, and admin staff provided prompt and skilled support.Posted on Huaru Kang Participating in the YCI courses and becoming a certified Youth Well-being Coach through the YCI training has been truly an inspiring and rewarding journey. The program has not only deepened my understanding of youth development through self-study courses but also equipped me with practical coaching skills through online live sessions. I particularly appreciate its research-based and evidence-driven approach, which makes the course content both convincing and impactful. This clearly reflects Dr. Leah’s hard work and dedication. I am also very grateful for the support of our online meeting facilitator, Bonnie. She is a wonderful person, very kind and supportive, and demonstrating outstanding professionalism in coaching.Posted on Heidi Huelster This incredible program is the real stuff that you need as a Youth Coach. Not only are the Coaches who are facilitating actually IN the world coaching and professional, but are beyond gifted. I am grateful for what I have gained as a Coach and beyond happy that I dove in for the whole experience. You won't regret doing the same.
The Core Benefits of the Lifestyle Medicine for Adolescents Program
Enhanced Coaching Credentials
For coaches who have earned dual certification in Youth Well-Being and Resilience Coaching, this Stage 5 course offers a third distinguished certification as a Certified Youth Health Coach.
Evidence-Based Curriculum
All our programs are grounded in current research and best practices, including founder Dr. Leah’s Reciprocal Potential Theory. This ensures coaches are learning and applying scientifically supported strategies in lifestyle medicine, health and wellness.
Diversified Career Pathways
As a certified Youth Health Coach, you have the opportunity to offer specialized coaching services in health and wellness and apply your skills and knowledge in schools, community centers, private practices, and other youth-serving fields.
Holistic Approach to Youth Well-Being
With a focus on lifestyle medicine, coaches can better address the big picture of their client’s well-being. By looking at the interplay of emotional and mental health with lifestyle factors, like diet and exercise, coaches can provide more comprehensive support.
Have Questions? Schedule a Q&A With Us.
Whether you have some coaching experience under your belt, want to better serve youth in your profession, or are exploring a profitable and fulfilling career choice, we’re here to guide you on the best path forward. Fill out our contact form or schedule a live 20-minute Q&A to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Participants should have completed Courses 1-8 of our training program or hold equivalent coach certifications from other accredited programs. Additionally, we require documented completion of an associate degree or higher, or 4,000 hours of work experience.
The course covers a range of topics including health and wellness goal setting, nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and techniques for sustaining health and wellness change in adolescents.
Successfully completing the course allows participants who have finished Courses 1-8 to be eligible for the Certified Youth Health Coach designation.
Yes, it’s suitable for all coaches who have foundational coaching skills and are interested in specializing in youth health and wellness. Additionally, the skills learned in this program are not limited to adolescents and can be applied to any age group, including adults.
Absolutely, the skills and knowledge gained are applicable in a variety of settings, including group coaching, educational institutions, and community youth programs.
Reach Out to Us to Learn More
Have questions or want to speak with a member of our team? Schedule a meeting or reach out to us directly, and we’ll be happy to assist you on your coaching journey.
Youth Coaching Expert Insights
Discover a library of free expert resources exploring the youth coaching landscape, the experiences of adolescents today, and opportunities to strengthen your approach.
Elevate Your Impact and Start Coaching Today
Make a positive and measurable impact with the Youth Coaching Institute. Develop your coaching skillset and begin the journey to becoming a certified youth life coach today.


