Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
What is Functional Medicine?
Functional Medicine is a personalized, patient-centered, science-based approach to healthcare that addresses the gaps in the conventional healthcare system. It empowers patients and practitioners to work together to identify and treat the root causes of illness, using a holistic lens that considers personal history, genes, diet, environment, and the social determinants of health. By understanding the full picture, functional medicine helps restore health and well-being.
What does a functional medicine health coach do?
Using the principles of functional medicine, a functional medicine health coach educates and empowers you to create practical steps toward your wellness goals—like improving energy, nutrition, sleep, or stress levels. They can also help you measure your health improvements by looking at labs and other biometric measurements, so that you stay motivated and can see results. Unlike a doctor, a health coach doesn’t diagnose or treat medical conditions but helps you transform the foundations that support your body’s natural healing process.
Is this a faith-based program?
Shalom Health & Wellness welcomes everyone. While Laura’s personal approach is shaped by her Christian faith—grounded in compassion, grace, and integrity—our programs are inclusive and designed for clients from all backgrounds.
Do you work with men too, or just women?
Yes, both men and women! While many of Laura’s clients are women ages 25–65, her coaching is personalized for anyone looking to improve their health, balance, and energy.
What’s the difference between a health coach and a nutritionist?
A nutritionist primarily focuses on food plans, while a health coach looks at the whole picture—nutrition, stress, sleep, mindset, and lifestyle. While Laura has been certified as a Functional Medicine Nutrition Specialist, she also helps you connect the dots and create a holistic plan that fits your real life.
Do you offer virtual or in-person sessions?
Most sessions are virtual via Zoom, making it easy to connect from anywhere in Texas. Local clients in the Waco area may have the option for in-person sessions upon request.
What is One-on-One Coaching?
You’ll begin with a Discovery Call to talk through your goals. From there, you and Laura will co-create a custom plan that will include regular sessions, nutrition guidance, and addressing the whole person with practical tools to help you stay accountable and motivated.
What is Group Coaching?
Group Coaching can be in-person or virtual, depending on the group you join. The groups are usually centered around a signature curriculum or program, created by Laura, that may address things like hormonal imbalance, blood sugar imbalance, or just a general whole-health transformation.
Do I need to buy supplements or specific foods?
Not necessarily. Laura focuses on food-first, lifestyle-based strategies. If supplementation is discussed, it’s always optional and tailored to your needs.
What is the Holy Health Membership?
The Holy Health Membership is a $50/month program just for women that offers continuous support, education, and accountability through resources, workshops, and twice monthly group-coaching to help you stay on track.
How do I get started?
Simply schedule your free Discovery Call. During this 15-20 minute session, you’ll explore your goals and see how Shalom Health & Wellness can help you move forward.
Do I need to buy supplements or specific foods?
Not necessarily. Laura focuses on food-first, lifestyle-based strategies. If supplementation is discussed, it’s always optional and tailored to your needs.
What does “Shalom” mean?
“Shalom” is a Hebrew word that means peace, completeness, and wholeness. It represents our belief that true health comes from harmony—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.