Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach

At AFPA, we believe in empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of health coaching. Our Master Certified Health and Wellness Coach program is designed to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for a rewarding career in this rapidly growing industry. To enroll in this course, you must meet certain qualifications.

The first requirement is that you must be at least 18 years of age. This ensures that students have reached a level of maturity and responsibility necessary to fully engage in the coursework and professional development opportunities offered throughout the program.

In addition to the age requirement, having a solid understanding of the English language is essential for successful completion of the program because all course materials, lectures, assessments, and the live course component are conducted in English.

Upon meeting these qualifications and enrolling in AFPA’s Master Certified Health and Wellness Coach program, you will embark on a transformative journey that encompasses a broad spectrum of topics related to health coaching.

The Advanced Health Coaching Intensive is a multi-week program. Upcoming cohort dates are as follows:

January 13 – April 9, 2025

January 14 – April 3, 2025 (no class January 20 or February 17)

February 7 – March 14, 2025

March 25 – June 12, 2025

The self-study component, the Certified Health and Wellness Coach program, offers the flexibility and freedom to complete the program at your own pace. Whether you prefer an accelerated study or a more relaxed learning approach, we provide you with ample time to successfully complete the course. The course is structured to be completed in six months or less, providing you with a reasonable timeframe to delve into the comprehensive curriculum and absorb the core concepts of holistic nutrition.

However, we understand that some students may require additional time to fully absorb the course content or accommodate unexpected life events. Should you find yourself in need of more time to complete the Certified Health and Wellness Coach program component, we offer the option to request a six-month extension for a fee of $75. This extension allows you to continue your studies without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, ensuring that you have the necessary time to grasp the concepts.

Please note that if you intend to apply for the National Board Certification Exam to become a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC), one of the criterium requires that you must successfully complete both the live and self-study components with a passing grade.

No, this course is 100% online.

You can access the online learning platform for each course from your desktop, mobile phone, or tablet, and complete your course from wherever you are. You will be granted access to your learning platform shortly after enrollment.

The live component of this course meets via Zoom. Your course instructor will share the Zoom meeting link in advance of your course start date.

Yes, we will be launching more cohorts. Please add yourself to our waitlist to be the first to be notified of upcoming live cohort dates/times.

You must have access to a computer (desktop/laptop) or mobile device (smartphone/tablet) and a stable internet connection to successfully access the components of the AFPA Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach program.

You will need speakers/headphones/earbuds for listening to audio or videos presented in courses.

For the live course component, you will need to be able to access the classroom via Zoom.

AFPA’s Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach program is an Approved Health and Wellness Coach Training & Education Program by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for the HWC Certifying Examination to become a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC).

Becoming a board certified health coach by earning your National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) credential boosts your credibility, increases your employability, and helps you stand out as a top-tier coach.

The Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach program is:

• Fast: Complete the live program in less than 12 weeks and the self-study program in less than 6 months.
• Affordable: Invest in your future for much less than competitive programs. You can even break up your enrollment fee into payment plans with as low as 0% APR financing.
• Interactive: Experience dynamic learning methodologies in the self-study component, and meet semiweekly with your classmates in the live component.
• Holistic: Consider the many dimensions of wellness and learn how to apply this approach with your clients and to your practice.
• Freshly Updated: Our dynamic curriculum will prepare you to meet the needs of today and maximize your impact.
• Led by Expert Educators: Learn from experienced and currently practicing National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coaches (NBC-HWCs) in the live and self-study components.
• Designed to Help You Get Board Certified: Get a free NBHWC practice exam with your enrollment!

AFPA offers flexible, interest-free payment plans without credit checks or added fees.

Learn more

Our Certified Health and Wellness Coach program is administered 100% online through our dynamic learning platform. Additional textbooks are not required.

Our Advanced Health Coaching Intensive requires one textbook for course participation.

Motivational Interviewing in Nutrition and Fitness by Dawn Clifford and Laura Curtis
ISBN: 978-1462524181 

You may purchase the course textbook on your own from your choice of textbook retailers and in the format of your choice (physical, digital, or audio formats are all acceptable).  

This course provides you with 32 AFPA continuing education credits (CECs) total—16 for the Certified Health and Wellness Coach program and 16 for the Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live]—that count toward the renewal requirements of an existing AFPA certification. To qualify for CECs, you must successfully complete the certification program.

Once you enroll in the AFPA Master Certified Health and Wellness Coach Program, you will receive the following:

• Immediate access to the self-study Certified Health and Wellness Coach program
• Your course welcome email that includes a detailed student success information, a link to your cohort’s private community group page, and contact information for your course support staff

Prior to your cohort start date, we will also check in and email detailed instructions for how to access the Zoom meeting room for the Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live].

AFPA’s Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach program is an Approved Health and Wellness Coach Training & Education Program by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for the HWC Certifying Examination to become a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC).

Graduating from an NBHWC-Approved Training Program is one of the steps required to become NBHWC Certified. To become a board-certified health coach, you must complete the 5 following steps:

• Step 1 Hold an Associate’s Degree or Higher or Have 4000 Hours of Work Experience
• Step 2 Graduate from an NBHWC-Approved Training Program
• Step 3 Log 50 Coaching Sessions
• Step 4 Pass a National Board Certification Exam
• Step 5 Plan for Continuing Education Courses

For additional guidance on becoming board-certified, download Your Guide to Becoming a Board-Certified Health Coach: Navigating the NBHWC Certification Process Step-by-Step.

You may enroll in the self-paced portion of the course, the Certified Health and Wellness Coach Program, individually if you:

• Want a comprehensive health coaching certification but do not currently intend to become a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC).
• Want to take the self-study component of the Master Certified Health and Wellness Coach program now and enroll in the Advanced Health Coaching Intensive at a later date or join a future cohort.

You may enroll in the live, cohort-based portion of the course, the Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live], individually if you:

• Have enrolled in the video-based AFPA Certified Health and Wellness Coach program on or after July 20th, 2023 or the AFPA Holistic Health Coach program after September 11, 2023.*

*If you enrolled in the textbook-based Certified Health and Wellness Coach program, please contact us at info@afpafitness.com prior to enrollment so our team can ensure you meet NBHWC eligibility requirements.

You may not enroll in the Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live] as a standalone course.

If you have already taken/are currently enrolled in the video-based version of the Certified Health and Wellness Coach program, you have already completed half of the training necessary to graduate from an NBHWC-Approved Training Program*!

You may enroll in the Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live] course to complete the second half of your training requirements and fulfill the live training component.

*If you enrolled in the textbook-based Certified Health and Wellness Coach program rather than the video-based version, you currently do not meet education requirements set by NBHWC. However, we offer a way to help you meet NBHWC education requirements. Please contact us at info@afpafitness.com prior to enrollment so our team can assist you.

No, you do not need to complete the Certified Health and Wellness Coach program prior to beginning the live course component.

The Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live] is delivered synchronously via Zoom. Class meetings involve faculty-led lectures, interactive activities and games, and small-group discussions using Zoom’s breakout room feature. Two practice coaching sessions and one Practical Skills Assessment that take place outside of scheduled class meetings are also required.  

Students are required to complete two non-graded practice coaching sessions with a peer outside of class meeting times for the Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live]. During each practice coaching session, each student will act as a health coach while their peer will portray a client. Each practice coaching session lasts between 20 and 30 minutes in length and is recorded and submitted to faculty. A faculty member views the recorded practice coaching session and provides 20 to 30 minutes of direct feedback to each student evaluating their coaching performance. Details regarding the scheduling of the practice coaching sessions and faculty feedback delivery will be provided during live instruction.  

Students are required to attend a minimum of 40 hours of the 48 hours of scheduled class meetings. Any further absences will result in non-completion of the course. Due to NBHWC contact hour requirements, there are no exceptions to this rule. 

Students are required to complete two practice coaching sessions and the Practical Skills Assessment outside of scheduled class meeting times. Recordings of the practice coaching sessions, meeting a faculty member for feedback, and the Practical Skills Assessment are mandatory.

Certified Health and Wellness Coach Program Final Exam

The final exam for this course is online, multiple choice, and open-note.

You must score at least an 80% on your final exam to pass. If you don’t pass the final exam on your first attempt, you can request a re-test for an additional fee.

Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live] Final Exam

The final exam for the Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live} course is the 50-item practice exam developed by the NBHWC. Your course fees cover the cost of this exam, and we will provide you with a code to purchase the exam. You must complete the exam during the week following the last week of class. You must submit your score report to your instructor for confirmation. An 80% (40 out of 50 questions) or higher is considered a passing score for this course.  

We will be enrolling students up until the start date for each cohort or until all seats are full. Spaces within the program are limited and we expect the cohort will fill up quickly. Please enroll early to secure your seat.

If you choose to change from one enrolled cohort to another for any reason, there is a $500 transfer fee that must be applied for administrative expenses. This fee applies whether you have already started the cohort or request the change before the cohort starts.

A health coach is a trained professional who supports individuals on the path to well-being. They do so by providing guidance, motivation, and education to help clients set and reach their health-related goals. Great health coaches focus on a holistic approach, addressing not only physical health but also mental, emotional, and lifestyle factors that impact well-being. Their role is to empower clients to make sustainable, positive changes in their lives to improve overall health and quality of life. 

The NBHWC stands for the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching. It is an organization that sets the standards for health and wellness coaching, ensuring that professionals in the field meet rigorous criteria to provide the highest quality of coaching to clients.

The National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) is a pivotal organization that sets the gold standard for professionals in this field. Achieving the NBHWC certification is not just about adding another credential to your resume; it’s about showcasing your commitment, expertise, and dedication to the highest standards in health and wellness coaching.  

The NBHWC certification is the pinnacle of achievement in the health coaching sector. It represents the profession’s highest standard, underpinned by extensive research and the collective expertise of top professionals in the industry. Although there isn’t a mandatory requirement for health coaches to be certified, many positions within the healthcare sector mandate board certification during the application process. 

While there are numerous institutions and organizations offering training on becoming a health and wellness coach, not all meet the stringent standards set by the NBHWC. 

AFPA’s Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach program is an Approved Health and Wellness Coach Training & Education Program by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for the HWC Certifying Examination to become a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC).

If you’re interested in pursuing NBHWC Certification, see our Guide to Becoming NBHWC-Certified. 

Benefits of NBHWC Certification:  

• National Directory Inclusion: Certified professionals become part of the NBHWC National Directory, aiding individuals in search of a qualified health & wellness coach.  
• Enhanced Job Opportunities: Employers often prioritize candidates with the NBHWC credential.  
• Advocacy: Certified professionals can champion training and education standards for this burgeoning field.  
• Distinctive Branding: Use the NBHWC logo to emphasize board-certified status.  
• Networking: Join the NBHWC community for private networking opportunities, shared resources, and exclusive events.  
• Continued Learning: Receive invitations to NBHWC Quarterly Connects and other events featuring industry experts, along with complimentary continuing education credits. 

Absolutely. The NBC-HWC certification represents training, education, and assessment that a health and wellness coach has obtained to become board certified. This certification solidifies your credentials and can help sharpen your knowledge and skills, better preparing you to offer comprehensive services to clients. Moreover, it provides clients the assurance that they’re working with someone skilled and qualified, potentially opening up more opportunities for you in the health and wellness field.

While there’s currently no strict requirement for health coaches to become certified by other organizations, many jobs in the healthcare sector require board certification upon application. Being certified, especially with a recognized board like NBHWC, adds credibility to your practice and assures clients of your expertise and commitment to the profession.

As of now, most wellness practitioners deliver services that are not covered by health insurance. While some groups, including the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC), are advocating for CPT Codes to be assigned to health coaching services, private payers, such as health insurance companies, do not necessarily have to recognize these CPT Codes, and therefore, may not reimburse for health coaching services. Some insurance companies are more accepting than others when it comes to covering health coaching services.

While health coaches and nutritionists both play crucial roles in guiding individuals towards better health, they have distinct areas of focus. A nutritionist primarily focuses on dietary choices, nutritional needs, and educating clients on proper nutrition. On the other hand, health coaches typically take a more holistic approach, considering not only nutrition but also other aspects of wellness. Health coaches explore a client’s lifestyle, habits, mindset, stress levels, and overall well-being to create a comprehensive wellness plan. They support clients in setting and achieving health goals, adopting sustainable lifestyle changes, and addressing barriers beyond nutrition. Read our full blog article on the difference between nutritionists and health coaches.

While health coaches and personal trainers both contribute to improving individuals’ well-being, their areas of focus and expertise differ. Personal trainers primarily specialize in physical fitness and exercise programming. They provide guidance on proper form, workout routines, strength training, cardiovascular exercises, and overall physical performance. Health coaches, on the other hand, take a more comprehensive approach to wellness. They address various aspects of well-being, including nutrition, stress management, sleep, mindset, and lifestyle choices. Health coaches work collaboratively with clients to establish personalized strategies that encompass not only physical fitness but also overall health and well-being.

As a health coach, your earning potential can vary based on several factors. While it’s challenging to provide an exact figure, health coaches can earn a sustainable income that aligns with their efforts and expertise. Here are some key factors that influence the earning potential of health coaches:

• Experience: As with any profession, experience plays a significant role in determining earning potential. Health coaches who have built a solid reputation, gained practical experience, and established a strong client base often have the opportunity to command higher fees or salaries.
• Geographic Location: The geographic location in which you practice can influence your earning potential. Urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living may offer greater opportunities for higher fees or salaries compared to rural areas.
• Education and Certifications: Holding advanced degrees, certifications, and credentials in health coaching or related fields can enhance your earning potential. Clients value qualifications and specialized knowledge, which can justify higher fees for your services.
• Employment Setting: Health coaches work in various settings, including private practice, wellness centers, corporate wellness programs, healthcare facilities, and more. The compensation structure can vary based on the setting. For instance, health coaches in private practice have more control over their rates and earning potential, while those employed by organizations may receive a salary or hourly wage.
• Clientele and Services: The type of clientele you serve and the range of services you offer can impact your earnings. Targeting specific populations, such as working professionals, athletes, or individuals with specific health conditions, and specializing in niche areas can lead to higher demand and potential for higher fees.
• Marketing and Networking: Proactive marketing and networking efforts are crucial for attracting clients and increasing your earning potential. Building a strong online presence, leveraging social media platforms, attending industry events, and establishing relationships with other health and wellness professionals can help expand your reach and generate more clients.

It’s important to remember that building a successful career as a health coach takes time, dedication, and continuous effort. The earning potential grows as you gain experience, expertise, and a strong reputation within the field. By consistently providing value to your clients and effectively marketing your services, you can create a fulfilling and financially rewarding career as a health coach.

Starting a career in wellness coaching requires a combination of passion, knowledge, and professional training. Here are some steps to help you begin your journey:

• Gain foundational knowledge: Start by educating yourself on various aspects of wellness, such as nutrition, exercise, stress management, and behavior change. Read books, attend seminars, and explore reputable online resources to enhance your understanding.
• Choose a credible health coaching program: Enroll in a comprehensive and recognized health coaching certification program. Look for programs that cover essential coaching skills, behavior change techniques, client assessment, and practical application. AFPA’s Master Certified Health and Wellness Coach program offers a comprehensive curriculum that equips you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel as a health coach.
• Complete the certification program: Successfully complete the health coaching certification program, including coursework, assignments, and practical assessments. This will ensure that you have a strong foundation and are equipped with the skills required to work with clients effectively.
• Get board-certified: Complete the necessary requirements to become a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach.
• Gain practical experience: Seek opportunities to gain hands-on experience by offering pro bono coaching sessions, volunteering, or interning at wellness centers, gyms, or community organizations. This practical experience will help you refine your coaching skills and build confidence in working with clients.
• Build a professional network: Connect with other health and wellness professionals, attend industry events, and join relevant associations or organizations. Networking can provide valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and potential referrals for clients.
• Establish your niche: Determine your area of specialization within wellness coaching. This could be a specific population, such as working professionals, athletes, or individuals with specific health conditions. Focusing on a niche allows you to tailor your services and attract clients who resonate with your expertise.
• Launch your practice: Once you feel confident in your coaching skills and have identified your target audience, establish your coaching practice. Create a professional website, develop marketing materials, and use various platforms, such as social media, to promote your services. Start by offering introductory sessions or group programs to attract clients and build your reputation.

Remember, building a successful career in wellness coaching requires dedication, continuous learning, and a genuine passion for helping others. By following these steps and consistently delivering value to your clients, you can embark on a fulfilling and rewarding career in the field.

Health coaches have the flexibility to work in various settings, depending on their preferences and career goals. Here are some common work environments for health coaches:

Private practice: Many health coaches establish their own private practices, either as solo practitioners or as part of a group practice. This allows for autonomy, flexibility in scheduling, and the ability to tailor services to individual clients’ needs.

Wellness centers and clinics: Health coaches are increasingly being employed by wellness centers, medical clinics, and integrative healthcare facilities. In these settings, health coaches work alongside other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nutritionists, and therapists, to provide holistic care to patients.

Corporate wellness programs: Many companies recognize the value of investing in employee well-being and have established wellness programs. Health coaches play a vital role in these programs, conducting workshops, offering one-on-one coaching, and supporting employees in adopting healthy lifestyle choices.

Fitness centers and gyms: Health coaches may collaborate with fitness centers and gyms to provide comprehensive wellness services to clients. This could involve designing personalized exercise plans, offering nutrition guidance, and providing overall wellness coaching to support clients’ fitness journeys.

Virtual coaching: Thanks to technology, health coaches can also provide services remotely through virtual coaching platforms. This enables them to work with clients from anywhere in the world, expanding their reach and client base.

Community organizations and nonprofits: Health coaches may partner with community organizations, nonprofits, or government agencies to deliver wellness programs to underserved populations. This allows coaches to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of communities.

The specific work environment for a health coach may depend on their niche, target audience, and personal preferences. It’s important to consider your desired setting and align your career path accordingly.

Attracting clients as a health coach requires proactive marketing and networking efforts, especially in the early stages of your career. While building a client base may present challenges, with dedication and effective strategies, you can overcome these hurdles. Here are some tips to help you get clients as a health coach:

Define your target audience: Identify the specific population or niche you want to serve as a health coach. This could be working professionals, athletes, individuals with specific health conditions, or any other group that resonates with your expertise. By narrowing down your target audience, you can tailor your marketing efforts to reach and appeal to them specifically.

Build a professional network: Networking is crucial for growing your client base. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with other health and wellness professionals. Establishing relationships and collaborations with complementary practitioners, such as doctors, nutritionists, or therapists, can lead to referrals and potential clients.

Offer valuable content: Create and share valuable content that showcases your expertise and provides helpful information to your target audience. This could include blog posts, social media content, videos, or podcasts. By consistently providing value, you can position yourself as an authority in your field and attract potential clients.

Utilize social media platforms: Leverage social media platforms to reach a broader audience. Establish a professional presence on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or YouTube. Share informative posts, success stories, client testimonials, and engage with your audience to build credibility and generate interest in your services.

Offer introductory sessions: Provide free or low-cost introductory sessions to potential clients. This allows them to experience your coaching style, understand the value you provide, and decide if they resonate with your approach. These sessions can serve as a bridge to establishing long-term coaching relationships.

Leverage referrals: Encourage satisfied clients to refer their friends, family, or colleagues to your coaching services. Word-of-mouth recommendations can be powerful in generating new clients. Offer incentives or referral programs to incentivize clients to refer others to you.

Collaborate with other professionals: Partner with other professionals or businesses in related fields, such as gyms, wellness centers, or nutritionists. Cross-referrals and collaborative projects can help expand your reach and attract potential clients.

Showcase client success stories: Share success stories and testimonials from satisfied clients. Real-life examples of the positive impact you have made can be compelling and encourage others to seek your services.u

Remember, building a client base takes time and effort. Consistency, professionalism, and a genuine passion for helping others are key to attracting and retaining clients as a health coach.

Please email info@afpafitness.com, call 800.494.7782, or book an appointment below to speak with an Enrollment Specialist.