A new way to care: MUSC nurse becomes a health and wellness coach to support others

After 12 years in nursing, Brittany Schlagenhauf, BSN, RN, ONC, NBC-HWC, wanted to find new ways to help people take an active role in their health and well-being. That interest led her to MUSC’s National Board-Certified Health Coach Training & Education program, where she joined the program’s first cohort and gained a new set of tools for supporting others.

Now the clinical practice nurse expert on 10 East (10E), MUSC’s inpatient Orthopedics and Urology Unit, Schlagenhauf is putting what she learned into practice. She shared what drew her to health coaching, what she took away from the experience and how what she’s learned is shaping her work at MUSC.

1. Could you tell us about your role at MUSC and what your day-to-day looks like?

As the clinical practice nurse expert on 10East, I support staff through ongoing education focused on quality, safety and clinical excellence. Throughout my 12 years in nursing, caring for others has always been at the heart of my work. I often cared for patients who returned to the hospital despite medication management and continued education. I wanted to learn how to move beyond simply providing information and instead empower individuals to take an active role in their health and well-being.

2. What initially interested you in health coaching, and what made you decide to enroll in MUSC’s program?

I initially enrolled because I wanted to gain the tools to better support others, but I discovered that the techniques I learned were just as valuable in my own life. The program reinforced the importance of recognizing my own needs, making intentional choices and prioritizing my personal wellness.

3. What was your experience like as a member of the program’s first cohort? What stood out to you?

The experience challenged me both personally and professionally. The program was fast-paced and required time, commitment and practice outside the classroom to develop the skills needed to become an effective health and wellness coach. Although the process required dedication, the growth that came from practicing coaching techniques made the experience well worth the effort. The instructors’ empathy, encouragement and continued support also played a vital role in my success.

4. How are you using your health coaching certification in your current role?

Since completing the program, I have focused on finding ways to promote the well-being of my colleagues. Recognizing that healthcare professionals spend so much time caring for others, I wanted to create opportunities for staff to prioritize their own health and wellness. I began incorporating wellness breaks into our workplace to encourage staff to focus on their wellbeing. Each month, I share educational resources that offer practical ways to promote wellness in the workplace. Last spring, I also held a Wellness Hunt around campus, creating an engaging way for colleagues to step away from the unit and spend time outside. I hope to help foster a workplace culture where caring for ourselves is recognized as an essential part of caring for others.

5. What has been the most valuable takeaway from the program?

My journey through MUSC’s health coaching program has expanded the way I think about health, wellness and the role we play in supporting others. What began as a desire to make a
greater impact on my patients has grown into a passion for promoting well-being among my colleagues and within my own life.

6. What would you say to other MUSC employees considering health coach training?

For MUSC employees considering health coach training, my message is simple: If you want to better understand behavior change and learn how to help individuals establish sustainable, selfdirected goals for their physical, mental and emotional well-being, this program is for you.

Interested in adding health coaching skills to your own professional toolkit? Learn how MUSC’s Health Coach Training Program can complement the work you’re already doing.