Why Students Love the AFPA Health & Wellness Coach Certification
Get a Complete, Affordable Education
The AFPA Health and Wellness Coach Certification course is one of the most comprehensive options available. It’s the perfect fit for someone who doesn’t have time or money to pursue a four-year degree program at a college or university.
Join 130,000+ Certified Professionals
AFPA has provided certification and continuing education to more than 130,000 certified personal trainers, fitness instructors, health coaches, and nutrition professionals worldwide with a 98.9% satisfaction rate.
Prepare to Tackle Today’s Issues
We have completely overhauled this program to make it more relevant and effective than ever. Our fresh curriculum prepares you to meet the needs of today with motivational interviewing techniques, updated coaching standards, and the tools to help you address a client’s most common concerns.
Learn Through Evidence-Based Research
AFPA’s curriculum features the essentials of behavior change theory and practical skills presented in a dynamic learning platform.
Become Board Certified
The program curriculum meets eligibility requirements for NBHWC*, AADP, and ANMAB board certifications, equipping you with everything you need to become a board-certified coach.
Get Flexibility for Your Learning Style
Access all course study materials online, so you can learn at your own pace from anywhere in the world. Modules include a mix of flashcards, videos, quizzes, and simulated coaching sessions to match your preferences.
How Our Coaching Curriculum Drives Client Success
AFPA’s approach goes a step further than other certifications, equipping you with everything needed to help clients excel.
Leverage holistic knowledge
This program takes a whole-person approach to well-being. No symptom happens in a vacuum. Certified Health and Wellness coaches know how to zoom out and look at the whole picture.
Thoroughly assess and customize
Learn to conduct thorough assessments of health status, current habits, and goals—the basis of truly customized plans that maximize results.
Build relationships and drive change
Learn to compassionately communicate with clients, developing soft skills needed to inspire positive behavior change.
Develop marketable skills that clients want
Learn evidence-based, proven theories you can apply to common client goals, like weight loss, stress management, or reducing screen time.
“This program exceeded every expectation.”
“It gave me the tools, the confidence, and the community to educate, encourage, and empower not only myself, but also the families I serve. The flexibility of the program made it possible to learn while balancing my family’s needs. The depth of knowledge has already transformed both my personal and professional life.”
— Rebecca Jackson, AFPA Certified Health and Wellness Coach
“Thanks to AFPA, I now feel fully equipped to help others achieve their health goals with science-based strategies and compassionate coaching.”
“This program didn’t just give me a certification—it gave me a purpose. If you’re looking for a program that will challenge, inspire, and prepare you for a successful career in health and wellness, I highly recommend AFPA!”
— Shy’Ann Edwards, AFPA Certified Health and Wellness Coach
How You’ll Make an Impact as a Certified Health and Wellness Coach
Help others navigate their unique life challenges. Clients will turn to you in a variety of situations, such as:
- Improving their diet and feeling more control over their eating habits
- Making exercise a priority or adding movement to their routine
- Learning effective stress management
- Learning tools to deal with an addiction to drugs or alcohol
- Strengthening spiritual, cultural, or occupational areas of wellness
About the Course Learning Experience
Dynamic learning methodologies to meet a variety of learning preferences
35+ hours of video content, including simulated coaching sessions
37 handouts to prepare you for real-life application
Interactive scenarios to help you engage with what you’re learning
Online final exam consisting of open-book multiple-choice questions
A Credential You Can Stand Behind
When you graduate, you’ll receive your AFPA certification through Accredible. It’s proof of your training and a credential you can share with prospective employers and clients.
Taught by Health and Wellness Experts
Shana Walsh, PhD, NBC-HWC, MCHES
Dr. Shana Walsh earned her PhD from Baylor University where her research focused primarily on health behavior science, and specifically the theoretical underpinnings of why people make choices that either support or hinder their health. She is a former associate professor of health education and a practicing health coach. Dr. Walsh’s professional certifications include National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Master Certified Health Education Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, and Registered Yoga Teacher.
Stephanie Tingle, BS, NBC-HWC
Stephanie Tingle holds a BS degree in Integrative Wellness from Midwest University of Holistic Health and a Public Health Certification from Kent State University. Professionally, Stephanie has spent nearly 20 years growing her own coaching business. Personally, Stephanie has been interested in health, wellness, movement, and weight for most of her life. As a 50-year-old woman who lost nearly 130 pounds after yo-yo dieting since childhood, she understands that health is multifaceted and means something different to each client. Stephanie’s coaching focuses mainly on overall health, general well-being, and longevity.
Eric L. Cox, MA, NBC-HWC
Eric Cox has over 20 years of practical experience in leadership, coaching, training, and development. He holds a master’s degree in organizational management and a bachelor’s degree in communications.
Eric is certified as a National Board Health and Wellness Coach, life coach, meditation instructor, and trainer/facilitator. His former role was as the AVP of Training and Development for American Addiction Centers. An experienced marathoner, Eric pulls from the challenges of endurance running to empower individuals to create their best lives. He is also the author of SIGN UP!:10 Interactive Lessons to Take Your Goals from the Starting Line to Across the Finish Line.
Vikki Pedigo, MSN, NBC-HWC
Vikki Pedigo is a national board-certified health and wellness coach. Prior to entering coaching full-time, she worked as a Nurse Practitioner in Women’s Health and Integrative Medicine. Vikki provided clinical health coaching and integrative medicine consults at the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine at Vanderbilt, primarily focused on patients with complex chronic pain conditions. Since 2018, she has served as core faculty in health coaching programs, developed and iterated course content, and mentored providers and coaches in the communication skills of behavior change, including motivational interviewing. Vikki will soon be launching her private coaching and mentoring practice with a focus on fostering creative living through holistic well-being. Vikki is a skilled teacher, mentor, and facilitator who loves empowering learners to use newfound skills.
Victoria Davis, CSN, CPT, NBC-HWC
Victoria Davis has a decade of experience in corporate health coaching, fitness, wellness content development, and presenting in the health, fitness, and wellness communities. She received the “Health Coach of the Year” Award in 2018 from The Wellness Council of Arizona and was featured in AZ Central’s “Who’s Next in Health and Fitness.” Victoria’s journey of thriving with Tourette Syndrome and scoliosis fueled her mission to help others with similar stories. Victoria serves as the head of Client Success at Sworkit, a global digital fitness and movement solution, and channels her passion for helping people find enjoyable daily movement.
Rena Shoshana Forester
Rena Shoshana Forester is a professional educator, healer, and mentor. She holds two Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees in education, yoga teaching certifications for adults, families, and children, two trauma-informed yoga certifications, and is a certified Nutrition and Health Coach. She is currently self-employed, working as the founder of Karuna Yoga, a nonprofit organization that provides fully sponsored, trauma-informed yoga to women and children, and the owner of Wellness Edge, which develops corporate well-being programs for workforce optimization.
Rena played a key role in developing learning materials for AFPA’s Health and Wellness Coach Certification course and serves as the lead instructor for AFPA’s Yoga Instructor Certification course.
John Clary, MS, NBC-HWC
John Clary is a health and wellness coach with ten years of experience and a National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching certification (2023). He has supported hundreds of clients through one-on-one and group coaching and has presented to thousands of attendees through webinars focused on weight loss and metabolic health.
John brings a personal perspective to his work—having reversed his own Type 2 diabetes and losing 250 pounds. He holds a master’s degree from Virginia Tech and a bachelor’s degree from Ferris State University.
Kellie Lunday, MS, RD, LD, NBC-HWC
Kellie Lunday is AFPA’s nutrition content lead and a registered dietitian with nearly a decade of experience in corporate wellness, health education, and performance optimization. She received her MS in Nutrition from Texas Woman’s University and completed her dietetic internship at The University of Texas in Austin. Previously, she has worked in various roles at Exos and the University of Texas at Austin. She is passionate about travel, global cuisines, fitness, and advancing consumer health through evidence-based education.
A Look Inside the Curriculum
Module 1 – Introduction to Health Coaching Answer
- What is health coaching?
- Foundations of coaching practice
- Scope of practice for health coaches
- Credentialing in health coaching
- Comparing health coaching to health education
- Comparing health coaching to psychotherapy
Module 2 – Coaching Presence, Relationships, and Sessions Answer
- Designing a coaching program
- The intake session
- Coaching presence
- Inclusive, culturally affirming coaching
- Recognizing biases power and privilege
- Preparing for a coaching session
- The coaching agreement
- Assessments in coaching
- Goal Setting
- Initial coaching sessions
- Conducting follow-up coaching sessions
- Ending coaching agreements
Module 3 – Theories, Models, and Approaches to Behavior Change Answer
- The Transtheoretical Model
- The Health Belief Model
- Social Cognitive Theory
- Self- Efficacy
- Social Ecological Model
- Appreciative Inquiry
- Neuroplasticity and healthy habit formation
Module 4 – Skills, Tools, and Strategies Answer
- An introduction to motivational interviewing
- The spirit of motivational interviewing
- The 4 processes of motivational interviewing
- The microskills of motivational interviewing
- Brainstorming
- Scaling questions
- Exploring patterns in client behavior
- Supporting clients through systemic barriers
Module 5 – Ethics and Professional Practice Answer
- Professional conduct
- Ongoing development for coaches
- Self care for coaches
- How to avoid burning out
- Coaching ethics
- Legal considerations
- HIPAA compliance
Module 6 – Health and Wellness Answer
- Health Promotion
- Exercise and physical activity
- Nutrition
- Holistic health and wellness
- Preventing and managing chronic conditions
- Sleep health
- Managing stress
“The AFPA Health and Wellness Coach Certification has been one of the most valuable investments I’ve made in my professional growth.”
“The curriculum is clear, practical, and rooted in evidence-based coaching.”
— Johnny Abou Chranek, AFPA Certified Health and Wellness Coach
“The Health and Wellness Coach course was one of the best online courses I have completed on my academic journey.”
“I can’t wait to continue with the Advanced Health Coaching portion to become NBHWC board-certified. Overall, I highly recommend completing this course if you are interested in the health and wellness field. The instructors, videos, mock sessions, and interactive learning format were amazing.”
— Jennifer, AFPA Certified Health and Wellness Coach
A Sneak Peek into the Online Classroom
“I loved the coaching demonstration videos that highlighted different coaching styles and showed what a real session might look like in action.”
“I feel so much more confident and ready to help my clients with all of the knowledge and insight gained from the course.”
— Tiffany Park, AFPA Certified Health and Wellness Coach
Gain Board Certification & Continuing Education
NBHWC Exam–Ready Curriculum
Together, the Health and Wellness Coach Certification and the Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live] (bundled together as the Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach Program) meet the education standards set by the NBHWC.
The 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). This program incorporates mandatory updates for the 2026 national board exam, ensuring your training stays current and relevant when you’re ready to test.
The Health and Wellness Coach Certification fully meets the American Naturopathic Medical Accreditation Board (ANMAB) accreditation board educational requirements. AFPA graduates are eligible to apply to become a Board Certified Holistic Health Care Practitioner through ANMAB.
The Health and Wellness Coach Certification fully meets the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP) education requirements, providing students with the most comprehensive course material designed by the Institute to gain eligibility as a Board Certified Health Coach.
The Health and Wellness Coach Certification is approved as a CEU Provider by the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) for a total of 30 CEUs. Receive your continued education units in health coaching through AFPA.
The Health and Wellness Coach Certification is approved by AFPA (American Fitness Professionals & Associates) for a total of 16 AFPA CECs.
Let Customers Speak for Us
Becoming certified with AFPA has given me the knowledge and confidence to take my life down a completely new path. It was the catalyst for starting my businesses and beginning a coaching journey. It still amazes me almost every day that my job is to literally help people live a healthier, happier life. In addition, the way my own habits have improved continues to impact my well-being. ”
Becoming certified with AFPA has impacted my life in many ways. I have learned how to be a better coach for others and myself! I have been able to strengthen many relationships by having an education in health and nutrition and have been able to better my own lifestyle.”
My certification gave me the confidence and knowledge that I needed to take the next step in starting my LLC.”
Customer Reviews
Verified ownerThe benefits my clients will see when I incorporate the evidence based interventions I learned throughout the AFPA Health and Wellness Coach Certification course are endless. As a mental health professional trained in clinical and sports psychology, I am looking forward to integrating new ways of connecting with and improving the well-being of clients from all walks of life. Although the course was self-paced, I thoroughly enjoyed the comprehensive training and in-depth focus the instructors provided.
Verified ownerVerified ownerThe course is a good first step if you want to dive into this coaching topic but yet not sure about spending thousands of dollars. While it teaches you the basics of coaching I would appreciate additional offers throughout the course (whether these are paid options or free of charge) in for example life zoom sessions where you can train with the coach after each module and deepen your knowledge and practice what you have learnt with real feedback. While examples of coaching are provided throughout the course, a more relatable option would be instead of having 2 trainers simulating a coaching session, a "real" conversation between a trainer and a "client" who has not the coaching background would be more suitable to learn from. Overall I recommend this course for everyone as a starting point into their coaching journey.
Verified ownerHealth and Wellness Coach Certification
Verified ownerLove this program! It makes me look forward to starting my own coaching business. I learned so much. I wish the holistic health section had more information.
| 5 star | 73% | |
| 4 star | 23% | |
| 3 star | 4% | |
| 2 star | 0% | |
| 1 star | 0% |
FAQ
What are the qualifications to enroll in this course? Answer
To enroll in this course, you must be at least 18 years old with a solid understanding of the English language. You’ll also need reliable internet access and a computer to complete the online coursework.
When can I enroll? What do I need to do in order to enroll? Answer
Whenever you want! We have a rolling enrollment for all programs, meaning that all you need to do is complete your enrollment online.
How long does it take to complete this course? Answer
The course is structured to be completed in six months or less, though most students finish in less than 4 months.
Should you find yourself in need of more time, 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.
Is there an in-person component to this course? Answer
No, this course is 100% online. You can access the online learning platform from your desktop, mobile phone, or tablet, and complete your course from wherever you are.
We also offer an NBHWC-approved version of this course that includes a live component.
Are there payment plans? Answer
AFPA offers flexible, interest-free payment plans without credit checks or added fees.
Does this course require textbooks? Answer
Our Health and Wellness Coach Certification course is administered 100% online through our dynamic learning platform. Additional textbooks are not required.
How is the final exam administered? Answer
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.
How many CECs is this course worth? Answer
This course provides you with 16 continuing education credits (CECs) that count toward the renewal requirements of an existing AFPA certification. To qualify for CECs, you must successfully complete the certification program.
The Health and Wellness Coach Certification is also approved as a CEU Provider by the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) for a total of 30 CEUs
Is this program set up for international students? Answer
Yes. The program is designed to accommodate students from around the world.
What if I need technical support with my online access to materials? Answer
Should you have any questions or problems, we provide you with contact information so you can reach out to an Education Specialist or the technical support team to troubleshoot any technical difficulties.
Is this program NBHWC-accredited? Can I take this course to become board-certified? Answer
In order for the AFPA Health and Wellness Coach Certification to be considered accredited by the NBHWC, students need to enroll in this Health and Wellness Coach Certification course, plus the Advanced Health Coaching Intensive [Live]. We have conveniently bundled these courses together as the Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach Program, an NBHWC-Approved Training Program.
What does it mean to be a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach? Answer
Becoming a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) signifies that a health coach has met the rigorous standards set by the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). This certification demonstrates a high level of proficiency and expertise in the field of health and wellness coaching.
To become an NBC-HWC, health coaches must meet specific requirements established by the NBHWC, including completing a health coaching training program recognized by the NBHWC and passing the certification exam. The certification exam assesses knowledge, skills, and competencies aligned with the NBHWC’s coaching framework.
Is this program recognized by AADP? Answer
Yes. Successful graduates of the program who meet AADP’s additional eligibility requirements may become a Board Certified Holistic Health Coach.
What job opportunities and career ideas are available for a health and wellness coaches? Answer
There is a growing demand for health coaches! Graduating from AFPA as a Certified Health and Wellness Coach opens many doors, and our graduates are using their training to pursue a range of career paths. They establish private coaching practices, bring health coaching to traditional medical practices, work in a corporate wellness environment, provide direct-to-consumer coaching as contractors for healthcare businesses, advance in their current positions, or a combination of these paths.
Here some other paths graduates choose to take:
- Create your own holistic nutrition and health blog
- Create a YouTube channel and/or a podcast about nutrition and coaching
- Host holistic nutrition and holistic wellness coaching groups on social media
- Create nutrition and wellness programs in your community
- Create your own online wellness products and programs
- Develop a meal planning system for clients or organizations for your online business
- Be a resource for sourcing local organic foods
- Teach holistic nutrition and wellness seminars to special groups for a variety of ages
- Lecture or speak on holistic wellness and behavior change at events and conferences
- Author books on creating a healthy lifestyle and holistic nutrition recipes
- Host a wellness retreat
- Start a meal preparation and delivery business
- Create and run a community kitchen and garden
- Be a guest on local programming, such as radio, news, tv, or public forum
- Work as an in-store nutritionist
- Start a restaurant or personal chef business
What if I need more information or support? Answer
Send our enrollment specialists an email anytime! They’re happy to help with any questions you may have about this course.
Flexible Payment Plans with 0% Interest — No Credit Check Required!
With AFPA’s in-house payment plans, you can pay as you go with no interest and no credit check. Spread the cost of your certification over time with the flexibility to choose a plan that works best for your budget.
The benefits my clients will see when I incorporate the evidence based interventions I learned throughout the AFPA Health and Wellness Coach Certification course are endless. As a mental health professional trained in clinical and sports psychology, I am looking forward to integrating new ways of connecting with and improving the well-being of clients from all walks of life. Although the course was self-paced, I thoroughly enjoyed the comprehensive training and in-depth focus the instructors provided.
The course is a good first step if you want to dive into this coaching topic but yet not sure about spending thousands of dollars. While it teaches you the basics of coaching I would appreciate additional offers throughout the course (whether these are paid options or free of charge) in for example life zoom sessions where you can train with the coach after each module and deepen your knowledge and practice what you have learnt with real feedback. While examples of coaching are provided throughout the course, a more relatable option would be instead of having 2 trainers simulating a coaching session, a “real” conversation between a trainer and a “client” who has not the coaching background would be more suitable to learn from. Overall I recommend this course for everyone as a starting point into their coaching journey.