Health Coaching

How long does it take to complete the program?

Keep in mind that NHSC’s program is designed for independent self-study, and that individuals taking our program vary widely in reading speeds, learning styles and comprehension. It is estimated that it takes a minimum of 85+ hours to complete NSHC’s self-study.

I don’t have a license as a clinician, how will NSHC’s Certificate of Completion benefit me?

Evidence-based health coaching skills can benefit all individuals who work with people of all ages. Your organization will determine how your new health coaching skills will be used within your current position. We’ve had many people tell us that they have used the strategies with their families and children!

My organization has both clinicians and non-clinicians who want to take NSHC’s program. Is the study material different for these two groups?

The course material is the same for both the Certification (for licensed clinicians) and for the Certificate of Completion (non-licensed clinicians). Those with a certification eligible credential take the health coach certification exam to become a Certified Health Coach (CHC) and all others take a Post Test for the Certificate of Completion.

Why does NSHC program cost less than other health coaching certification programs?

NSHC’s Health Coach Certification program content is based on the knowledge that credentialed healthcare clinicians/pracitioners already have. Therefore, NSHC’s program cost is less.  

What is the cost of NSHC program?

The cost for program materials is $875. NSHC offers volume discount pricing for groups of 5 or more! Click the Course Details link located under the Certification Tab to view volume pricing and requesting an invoice for your volume order.

What are the legalities of health coaching? Is it regulated? What is my liability?

Health coaching is not regulated at this point. However, there are growing concerns about coaches who engage individuals with chronic conditions or those with moderate to high health risk who are not qualified by licensure to do so. State Practice Acts regulate who can provide clinical interventions. Those without a license who use coaching skills must not cross[...]

How can I become a health coach?

The NSHC exclusively certifies only clinicians and practitioners in health coaching. However, the NSHC also awards a Certificate of Completion to all non-licensed healthcare providers upon passing. NSHC’s guided self-study program is purchased online followed by Registration. Contact the NSHC with questions of particular interest to you.

Is Wellness Coaching the same as Health Coaching?

Merriam-Webster defines wellness as the quality of state of being healthy; or in good health, especially as an activity- sought goal.  The Centers for Disease Control define wellness as the degree to which one feels positive and enthusiastic about life.  Therefore, it can be reasoned that wellness coaching is guidance and inspiration provided to otherwise[...]

What is Evidence-Based Health Coaching?

The National Society of Health Coaches describes Evidence-Based Health Coaching (EBHC) as the use of evidence-based skillfull conversation, clinical strategies and interventions to actively and safely engage clients in health behavior change to better self-manage their health, health risk, and acute and chronic conditions resulting in optimal wellness, lowered health risk, improved health outcomes and decreased[...]

Why is the NSHC not listed with the NBHWC?

The NSHC has higher certification eligibility criteria than the NBHWC board certified health coach programs. NSHC requires a current license, registration or certification to assess, plan, treat, implement and/or evaluate interventions in the clinical setting. The NBHWC includes programs that certify non-clinicians as health coaches, while the NSHC certifies only those with an active clinical license to[...]