We got the wonderful opportunity to hear from Canadian graduate, Natalie Duhamel, on what it was like to be an international student in Integrative Nutrition's Health Coach Training Program. She shared a bit about her background and what her life has been like since graduating and creating her own successful Health Coaching business.

What were you doing before Integrative Nutrition?

Before Integrative Nutrition (IIN), I was a recovering political junkie. Knowing that I no longer wanted a career in politics, I was drifting around trying to find my true path in life.

What led you to explore Integrative Nutrition's Health Coach Training program?

I knew that I was drawn to healthy lifestyles and nutrition. Two years prior to enrolling at Integrative Nutrition, I got my certification as a Personal Training Specialist and Agatsu Kettlebell Coach, but something was missing. I was dissatisfied that my certifications didn’t allow me to talk about my clients’ nutrition, outside of the parameters of Canada’s Food Guide.

What happened since you enrolled in Integrative Nutrition's program?

At Integrative Nutrition, I found a real community of like-minded people. I got the knowledge that I needed to help my clients with proper nutrition to lose weight and have more energy. What’s more, because it’s truly a holistic approach, I am able to help my clients with their relationships and careers too!

What did you learn at Integrative Nutrition?

Integrative Nutrition taught me about bio-individuality. Although I am a vegan and will defend my lifestyle enthusiastically, I know that it’s not for everyone. I have the ability to guide my clients with any number of diets and lifestyles thanks to the breadth of material covered by IIN.

What do you love about the school?

I love the diversity of materials covered during the course. The all-star faculty lectures have been incredibly inspiring.

How has studying with an international Health Coach Training Program benefited you?

It is important to me to have internationally recognized credentials, as my coaching practice is not constrained by my physical location. I am able to coach clients by phone or over the Internet anywhere in the world through my website.  

Is there a need for Health Coaches in your area of the world?

I know that there are other Canadian students who are studying and have graduated from IIN, but we need more! Health Coaches need to connect with their clients so we need all kinds of people with all kinds of personalities and backgrounds to get involved. Like the USA, Canada has a huge obesity problem and we need to address it right away.

What do you love about your work?

I love seeing clients who are so happy with their results. I love it when they are empowered by their new life choices. I love that I am in charge of my own time, of my own growth, and of my own destiny.

Tell us about your practice.

I work with women and men everywhere in the world to help them lose weight, reduce stress, improve nutrition, increase their energy levels and live their BEST life!