Karen Lawson

Karen Lawson, MD, is a prominent figure in the field of Integrative Health and Holistic Medicine. She is the founder and CEO of IHWC Productions, a consulting company dedicated to advancing training in Integrative Health Coaching and holistic healthcare practices. Her work focuses on collaborating with programs and individuals to enhance their understanding and implementation of these practices.14

Professional Background

Dr. Lawson has an extensive background in medicine and education:

• Education: She holds undergraduate degrees in Biochemistry and Physiology from Michigan State University, completed her medical training at the University of Michigan, and did her Family Medicine residency at the University of Wisconsin.3
• Academic Roles: She has served as the Director of Integrative Health Coaching at the University of Minnesota from 2005 to 2022, where she also contributed significantly to the Integrative Health and Wellbeing Coaching Program as a co-director and faculty member.23
• Professional Affiliations: Dr. Lawson is a founding diplomat of the American Board of Integrative and Holistic Medicine, a past president of the American Holistic Medical Association, and a founding board member of the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching.13

Contributions and Impact

Dr. Lawson is not only an educator but also a published author and speaker, sharing insights on holistic health practices at various national forums. Her passion for wellness extends to personal practices; she is an avid dancer with over 30 years of yoga experience.14

Through IHWC Productions, she continues to influence the field by providing consulting services that aim to elevate health coaching standards and practices across various platforms.56