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September 26, 2025

Brain Health Coaching: Fall Forward with Habits for Energy and Focus

by Molly Rapozo

There’s something about fall that invites a fresh start. The air turns crisp, routines settle in, and the season quietly whispers let’s begin again. For many of us, autumn feels like an alternate New Year when learning is emphasized, structure returns, and we’re reminded that change is still possible.

As we look back on our 2025 goals, it’s easy to feel like the year is winding down. But here’s the truth: we still have a few more months to change the script. Whether you’re hoping to sleep better, move more, eat with intention, or sharpen your memory, fall is the perfect time to gain traction—and with the support of personalized brain health coaching.

Start with the Basics of Brain Health Coaching

  • Sleep: Cooler nights and darker mornings make it easier to reset your sleep schedule. Try winding down earlier and waking up with purpose. Sleep hygiene is a key focus in brain health coaching, helping you restore mental clarity and resilience.
  • Movement: Set a goal that feels energizing—whether it’s walking daily, taking an exercise class, or training for a Turkey Trot this Thanksgiving. Physical activity boosts mood, circulation, and brain performance.
  • Food: Fall flavors lend themselves to comfort cooking that’s both nourishing and brain-friendly. Think baked oatmeal with berries, hearty bean soups and chilis, and roasted vegetables that bring warmth to your plate.

If you’re as excited as I am to get going this season, I’d love to share a few opportunities at Pacific Neuroscience Institute that can help you build momentum through brain health coaching programs:

Brain Buddies – Live the Pillars of Brain Health, Together

Smiling older couple walking arm in arm outdoors with coffee cups on a sunny fall day.

This new group is designed for older adults who want to take real action toward brain-healthy living. Co-hosted by me, Molly Rapozo, Brain Health Coach and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, and Bud Williams, Brain Health Enthusiast, Brain Buddies explores one pillar of brain health each week—nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, connection, and mental stimulation.

Each session includes practical tips, open discussion, and personalized action steps. It’s a welcoming space to build habits, share ideas, and stay engaged.

>Learn more & register

Vital Minds – Cognitive Training for Everyday Memory

Group of older adults smiling and playing a board game together at a table, engaging in a fun memory activity.

October is your final chance in 2025 to join Vital Minds, our cognitive training program designed to help you use memory more effectively in daily life. Through engaging exercises and practical strategies, participants learn how to strengthen recall, stay organized, and feel more confident navigating everyday tasks—key outcomes supported by brain health coaching.

>Sign up now

Personalized Brain Health Coaching for Everyday Life

Smiling health coach talking with an older woman wearing headphones during a one-on-one session at a table.

If you’re looking for one-on-one support, personal brain health coaching may be the right fit. Coaching provides evidence-based guidance and accountability to help you implement brain-healthy behaviors that align with your lifestyle and goals. Whether you’re working on nutrition, sleep, stress, or focus, brain health coaching offers a tailored roadmap and ongoing encouragement.

Fall offers a powerful window to reset. Let’s make the most of it—together.

If you’d like to learn more about Brain Buddies, Vital Minds, or coaching, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to help you find the right fit.

Discover more by contacting us at lifestyle@pacificneuro.org .

About the Brain Wellness & Lifestyle Program

Pacific Neuroscience Institute’s Brain Wellness & Lifestyle program offers virtual and in-person, individual and group sessions. Our expert team addresses the lifestyle interventions that help optimize brain health, combining evidence-based practices with compassionate support. 

Join our mailing list or make an appointment for our services:
lifestyle@pacificneuro.org | 213-344-2037
1301 20th St. #100, Santa Monica, CA 90404

FAQs About Brain Health Coaching

What does a brain health coach do?

A brain health coach provides personalized guidance to help you implement habits that support cognitive function and emotional well-being. Using evidence-based strategies, they assist with lifestyle changes such as improving sleep, nutrition, stress management, and physical activity. The goal is to optimize brain performance and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

How much does a health coach cost per session?

The cost of health coaching sessions can vary widely depending on the coach’s credentials, location, and the length of the session. At Pacific Neuroscience Institute, brain health coaching rates are available upon request. Some programs may be covered in part by insurance or offered as part of a group setting.

How can I improve my brain health?

Improving brain health starts with small, consistent changes. Prioritize restorative sleep, regular physical movement, a balanced diet rich in brain-boosting nutrients, and meaningful social connection. Brain health coaching can help tailor these habits to your specific needs and keep you accountable.

Is a mental health coach the same as a therapist?

No, a mental health coach is not the same as a licensed therapist. While both offer support, therapists are licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions, while coaches focus on habit change, goal setting, and performance improvement. Brain health coaches support emotional wellness but do not offer psychotherapy.

Is a brain health coach part of Functional Medicine?

Brain health coaching can align with Functional Medicine principles, particularly when it takes a holistic, lifestyle-based approach. While not exclusive to Functional Medicine, many brain health coaches integrate nutrition, sleep, stress reduction, and personalized strategies that support long-term neurological well-being.

About the Author

Molly Rapozo

Molly Rapozo

Molly Rapozo, MS, RDN, CD, is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in Brain Health Coaching. She provides coaching for clinical research trials at the Pacific Brain Health Center at Pacific Neuroscience Institute, where she uses a personalized list of recommendations to coach participants in optimizing wellness and avoiding disease. Molly enjoys teaching people how to make good nutrition easy to do and delicious to eat. She also provides support with sleep, stress management and exercise.

Last updated: October 8th, 2025