Graduate Certificate in Integrative Health and Wellbeing Coaching

This course will begin covering the foundational theories of behavior change in individuals, groups, and large populations. From there we will apply these methods using case studies to integrate knowledge with clinical and organization application. Learners will study effective communication, observation, and active listening skills used to evoke positive health behavior change. Assessment of stages of behavior change and motivational interviewing are integrated with methods for guiding clients/patients through goal setting and maintaining accountability.

This course expands on learning from NUTR 6100 and provides a foundation of Health Coaching theory and practice. This course examines the core building blocks for optimal health from a holistic perspective.  As part of the foundation of Health Coaching, each person is treated as an intrinsically healthy, whole, and wise being, who is the ultimate expert in his or her healing journey. The basic tenets of the health coaching model (a 4-pillared construct) include: deep listening, effective and empathic communication, and tools for self-development will be covered. It is the role of the Health Coach to provide a safe, guided environment and professional expertise to support their health journey. In this course you will learn how to facilitate the client’s process by identifying and benchmarking stages and patterns of change, effectively interfacing with a wide range of interdisciplinary health care providers, and educating clients on a variety of self-care practices.

This course provides the advanced learning platform to effectively facilitate the health coaching process from evaluating the stages and patterns of change, effectively interfacing with a wide range of interdisciplinary health care providers, locating optimal resources to assist clients in decision making, and educating clients on a variety of self-care practices.  Students will participate in a peer-coaching model and case-based practice to apply tools, skills and utilize resources for effective health coaching and client outcomes.  This course will fulfill the required student practice coaching sessions that are followed by faculty-led developmental feedback on practical coaching skills. Additionally discussions related to health coaching ethics, professional boundaries, professional growth opportunities, referral processes, and client selection will be covered.

In this course learners will discuss the importance of staying up to date on current health and wellness trends. They will learn to critically analyze and apply research to inform recommendations about health and wellness. Learners will learn to apply best practices for communicating health-related information with the lay public.

This course provides the further development of interpersonal, communication, and patient care skills is the focus of this course. Students evaluate and coach patients under the supervision of a clinical instructor at local clinical facilities to practice skills learned in the didactic portion of the program. Students finalize the plan for affiliations.

Because learners are coming from many different professions and points of view, this degree does not result in a discreet license or certification, but instead enhances existing skills and broadens the healthcare perspective to include a transdisciplinary approach.

The Integrative Health and Wellbeing Coaching Curriculum is an Approved Health and Wellness Coach Training & Education Program by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching. Completers of this program are eligible to apply for the HWC Certifying Examination to become National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC). Currently, there is no state licensure for health coaching. Students should contact the appropriate board for eligibility requirements, and their State Department of Health to determine which of these certifications may be recognized for practice in their state, as well as any other licensing, registration, or certification requirements, as they are subject to change.

The University makes no guarantees that an individual student will satisfy the licensure, registration or certification requirements of any particular state or other jurisdiction. It is the responsibility of an individual student to confirm the regulatory requirements that may apply in any jurisdiction in which that student intends to practice.

Receipt of a certificate or degree from Northwestern Health Sciences University does not guarantee a license or certification to practice. States vary in the specific courses of study required and/or state-based testing for certification or licensing. Students are responsible for confirming with the appropriate board(s) to determine the specific requirements for the state(s) in which they intend to practice and/or seek employment.