The health and wellness industry has experienced tremendous growth in recent years, with no signs of slowing down.
According to a report by the Global Wellness Institute, the global wellness economy was valued at $4.5 trillion in 2018 and is projected to reach $6 trillion by 2023. This growth has created a wealth of opportunities for professionals looking to work in this field. Here are four careers in the health and wellness field to consider in 2023.
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1. Health Coach
Health coaches work with individuals to help them achieve their health goals through lifestyle changes, such as improved nutrition and increased physical activity. Health coaches provide their clients guidance, support, and accountability, helping them make sustainable changes that lead to better health outcomes.
The demand for health coaches is skyrocketing these days, and it’s no surprise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there’s going to be a whopping 15% increase in job opportunities from 2020 to 2030. People are starting to realize the importance of preventing health issues, and they need professionals who can guide them toward improved overall health and happiness.
Becoming a health coach usually means having a bachelor’s degree in a related field like nutrition or exercise science. And don’t forget about that fancy certification! You’ll want to get certified by a recognized organization like the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching. It involves completing some training, acing an exam, and keeping up with ongoing education to stay on top of your game.
2. Personal Trainer
Physical trainers, also known as personal trainers, work with individuals to design and implement fitness programs that help them improve their physical health and achieve their fitness goals. They work with clients of all ages and fitness levels, from beginners looking to get in shape to professional athletes seeking to enhance their performance.
Physical trainers typically work in gyms or fitness centers but can also work with clients in their homes or other locations. They assess their clients’ fitness levels, develop customized fitness plans, and provide ongoing support and motivation to help them stay on track. Many trainers have a NASM certification, through which they learn how to train people well.
The demand for physical trainers is on the rise, too, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 15% increase in employment between 2020 and 2030. You can thank the increasing emphasis on preventive healthcare and the need for healthcare professionals who can work with patients to improve their health and well-being for this increased popularity.
A NASM personal trainer must have a deep knowledge of human anatomy, exercise science, and nutrition. They must also be skilled at working with people and helping them stay motivated and engaged in their fitness programs. Successful physical trainers are passionate about fitness and helping others achieve their goals and strongly commit to ongoing education and professional development.
3. Mental Health Counselor
Mental health counseling is a booming career these days. You get to help people deal with anxiety, depression, and addiction. Basically, you provide therapy and support to help your clients cope with their issues and feel better.
No surprise, the demand for mental health counselors is skyrocketing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there’s gonna be a 25% increase in jobs from 2020 to 2030. People are becoming more mindful of mental health, so they’re increasingly open to seeking help. So, there’s a need for pros who can dig deep into the root causes of these issues and help patients out.
To become a mental health counselor, you usually have to get a master’s degree in counseling or something related. You’ll need a license to practice in your state, too. The licensing requirements vary, but usually, you gotta do some supervised clinical hours and pass an exam.
4. Physical Therapist
Physical therapists are like superheroes for people who have trouble moving or doing stuff due to injuries or illnesses. They help patients get back on their feet and improve their overall function. So, whether someone needs to recover from an injury or deal with a long-term condition, these therapists got their back.
The demand for physical therapists is also increasing, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 22% jump in employment between 2020 and 2030. This growth partially comes from the aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions requiring physical therapy.
5. Nutritionist
Nutritionists work with individuals and groups to help them improve their nutrition and overall health. They provide guidance and support to help clients make healthy food choices and develop sustainable eating habits that lead to better health outcomes.
Increased demand for nutritionists sees the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting an 11% increase in employment between 2020 and 2030. This growth aligns with an increasing emphasis on preventive healthcare and the need for healthcare professionals who can work with patients to improve their overall health and well-being.
Certification typically involves completing a supervised internship or practice program, passing an exam, and fulfilling ongoing continuing education requirements.
An Exciting New Health Career
The health and wellness industry is a rapidly growing field with a wide range of career opportunities.
Whether you’re interested in coaching individuals to improve their health habits, helping patients recover from injuries or illnesses, or promoting healthy eating habits, there is a career path for you. With a commitment to ongoing education and a passion for helping others, you can find success and fulfillment in the health and wellness field in 2023 and beyond.