Client Experiences of Eudaimonic Well-Being Development Through Virtual Health and Wellness Coaching

Abstract

This qualitative descriptive study explored how health and wellness coaching clients described the development of eudaimonic well-being through live, virtual 1:1 coaching relationships with health and wellness coaches in the United States. The problem addressed the limited understanding of how sustainable eudaimonic well-being develops in virtual coaching amid the increasing use of digital health platforms and high attrition rates in online programs. The study was based on Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia, self-determination theory, psychological well-being dimensions, and categories of analysis for motivational orientations. The study mixed convenience, purposive, and chain-referral sampling to recruit 19 adults aged 30 to 75 engaged in virtual health and wellness coaching. Data were collected through HEEMA, semi-structured interviews, and a reflective journal. Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis was used to identify six themes: Coaching Relationship as a Catalyst for Growth, Virtual Coaching Enhances Accessibility and Adherence, Identity Formation through Coaching, Meaningful Engagement in Healthy Living, Personal Empowerment Through Authenticity, and Evolving Purpose Beyond Lifelong Learning. Themes highlighted coach presence, psychological safety, and personalized support that foster intrinsic motivation and behavior change. The findings offer implications for virtual coach training, program design, research with diverse populations, and the advancement of coach self-efficacy.