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W.I.T.S. · Certification

Health Coach Specialist Certification

Build the coaching skills needed to support lasting behavior change and long-term client success.

Watch the program overview

Choose an enrollment format

Compare the learning formats and review the enrollment details for your choice.

Self-paced Online

Best for learners who want flexibility and independent study.

Complete the Health Coach Specialist curriculum at your own pace through structured modules focused on behavior change, communication, and ethical coaching practice.

Certification examination

Online certification exam. A minimum passing score of 70% is required.

Preparation access: 24/7 access for 4 months

Learning and support details
  • Studying behavior change psychology and coaching models
  • Learning goal-setting frameworks and communication strategies
  • Reviewing ethical principles and professional standards
  • Preparing for certification testing at your own pace

Support is available if you need help navigating requirements or planning completion.

Instructor-led Virtual LIVE

Best for learners who value live instruction, discussion, and structured pacing.

Participate in live, instructor-led classes with guided discussion and practical coaching application. Sessions are recorded for study and review.

Certification examination

Online certification exam scheduled after course completion.

Preparation access: 6-week guided cohort

Format: Live instruction with scheduled sessions.

Learning and support details
  • Live instructor-led lectures and applied coaching discussions - Instructor: Mark Cassidy, MS, CPT, PCOM Athletic Facility Director
  • Skill-based labs focused on communication and client scenario
  • Structured weekly schedule to support accountability
  • Session recordings for review and exam preparation

Learn alongside peers with instructor guidance and shared discussion.

What you’ll learn

The Health Coach Specialist Certification prepares fitness and wellness professionals to support meaningful behavior change through structured coaching principles, communication strategies, and ethical practice.

This program focuses on the psychological and interpersonal skills that help clients move beyond past barriers and take sustainable next steps toward their health goals. Choose the learning path that fits your schedule. Both options lead to the same certification outcome and include 12 CECs.

Apply behavior change models effectively

Understand and apply core behavior change theories, including the Transtheoretical Model, to guide clients through sustainable progress.

Communicate with clarity and impact

Use active listening, powerful questioning, and clear communication to support motivation and accountability.

Establish ethical coaching relationships

Apply professional coaching agreements, boundaries, and ethical standards to build trust and safety with clients.

Develop a confident coaching presence

Cultivate your coaching voice, presence, and approach to support long-term client engagement.

Program questions

Textbook and purchasing links

Foundations of Professional Coaching With HKPropel Access Models, Methods, and Core Competencies

Who is this certification for?

Fitness professionals and wellness practitioners who want to build behavior change and coaching skills.

Do Online and Virtual LIVE lead to the same certification?

Yes. Both paths lead to the same Health Coach Specialist certification.

How many CECs are included?

12 CECs upon completion.

Is a textbook required?

Yes. The required textbook is purchased separately.

Ready to choose an enrollment format?