It is for people with one or more chronic conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, arthritis, respiratory disease, heart disease or chronic pain, anyone with any long-term physical or mental health issues, their caregivers, family or friends.

Participants must be able to set goals and function in a group setting if joining a group workshop. For example, the program would not be appropriate for someone with advanced dementia or memory impairment, or for someone who would be disruptive in a group. However, caregivers, family members or friends can benefit from learning self-management skills to help support others and take care of themselves. One-One Health Coaching is alternative available if you are not comfortable in a group setting.

Yes, a caregiver or family member who is supporting someone with a chronic condition is welcome. The program can be very helpful for them.

Let the peer leaders know that you would like an audio CD instead.

Our workshops have been carefully developed and evaluated and the research shows participants benefit the most from learning new skills over the allotted time period and practising what they learn in between sessions. We do know that “life happens” and people are not always able to come to all sessions, but attending as many sessions as possible will give you the most benefit.

It is important that guests do not drop in on a workshop. Each session builds on the previous one and repeats important activities the participants have already learned. A new participant can easily disrupt the progress of the group and individuals. The guest will not get enough benefit out of one session and it is better for him/her to register (like all the other participants did) and take the whole workshop from the beginning.

While no one is forced to participate, workshops are based on the idea of learning and practicing new skills. You can participate in the activities without having to share anything that is overly personal. The amount of time any one person “talks” is limited, and all participants are asked to keep strict confidentiality about what is said. Health Coaching, however, does require a high level of participation.

The concept of self-management is new for many people. Workshops and Health Coaching allow participants to “tailor” it to their own needs by setting their own goals each week and solving any problems they encountered.

No. Some people are referred, but participation is “open” to anyone who is interested.

There are about 10 individuals participating together in the group-based workshops. This allows for dynamic discussion and interaction among the group of participants. Health Coaching is a one-one program.

Our group based-workshops follow a standardized format that is proven to help people learn to better self-manage. Participants develop skills such as planning and problem-solving skills, and communication skills in addition to learning about healthy living. Doing exercise or sharing “general” problems or inviting an outside/guest speaker are not part of this program.

One-One Health Coaching is specific to your needs and goals.

Yes, you may, however preference will be given to someone who has not taken it before.