Wellness Coaching Digital Badge

Contact Information

The Wellness Coaching digital badge is a competency badge offered by the Department of Health Professions. Requirements of this badge are intended to provide content knowledge and support to participants who are interested in becoming Health and Wellness Coaches and are preparing to sit for the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaching (NBWHC) certification exam.

Earning Criteria

Participants earning this badge are required to submit academic coursework reflecting their knowledge and experiences in lifestyle medicine, effective wellness behaviors, practical skills assessment evaluation, and the completion of 50 coaching sessions.

Competencies Demonstrated

1. Analyze how lifestyle factors contribute to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension.
2. Prepare and evaluate a list of positive wellness behaviors for people without chronic disease, in the areas of nutrition, physical activity, stress management, sleep, and other lifestyle medicine areas.
3. Evaluate the need for referral to other health care providers and resources
4. Describe wellness coaching, including key terms, functions, and services.
5. Compare and contrast the scope of practice of wellness coaching with the scope of practice for psychotherapists and licensed healthcare practitioners.
6. Demonstrate reflective and active listening, open-ended inquiry, and perceptive reflections.
7. Explain the theoretical perspectives and background related to wellness coaching including health behavior change and motivation.
8. Construct client well-being assessments and goal/behavior change/modification plans.
9. Conduct effective coaching sessions.
10. Demonstrate various communication skills that enhance effective communication with clients and other healthcare professionals.
11. Assist client in creating a behavior change plan.