Online wellbeing and lifestyle coach

Individuals paying privately, such as busy professionals, new parents and people changing their routines. Some clients may be reimbursed through an employer wellness benefit.

Per session fees, or monthly coaching packages with regular check-ins. Small group programs let you serve several clients in the same hour.

• Good listener and motivator
• Clear, practical communication
• Knowledge from training or experience in nutrition, fitness or wellbeing
• Comfortable with video calls and online booking

• Protected titles: 'dietitian' is regulated in every province, and 'nutritionist' is protected in some. Check your provincial regulator before choosing how to describe yourself
• Stay within coaching: don't give medical advice, and refer clients to a doctor or registered professional when needed
• Professional liability insurance, and check whether your coaching certification is recognized by insurers
• Privacy rules for client health information, check federal and provincial requirements
• Register for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and check whether a home-based business licence applies in your municipality

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on any training you take, your video and booking tools, and the insurance you choose. Professional liability insurance is worth checking.

Check your provincial regulator before choosing how to describe yourself, as 'dietitian' is regulated in every province and 'nutritionist' is protected in some. Stay within coaching, refer clients to a doctor when needed, and check privacy rules for health information.

Monthly revenue estimates are typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on how many clients you coach and the hours you put in. Some clients may be reimbursed through an employer wellness benefit.