Eligibility

Become a Clinical Health & Well-Being Coach

Ready to join healthcare as a behavior change professional? Learn more about the requirements to become a CHWC here.

1

Complete an IBC-accredited coach training program

2

Apply for the CHWC exam & practical skills evaluation

3

Eligibility & Training Requirements

The CHWC credential indicates professionals who have completed a high-level of training and practical experience to ensure they are fully equipped to work in clinical settings.

Review the requirements to learn more about the minimum requirements for CHWC exam eligibility.

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Complete an accredited training program

Prior to applying for the CHWC credentialing exam, candidates must complete an IBC-accredited training program.

‍Training programs will equip candidates with foundational health and wellness coaching skills plus advanced competencies tailored for clinical and integrated care.

IBC-accredited programs must have a minimum of 225 training hours with live practice and mentoring opportunities. Completion of a training program includes a minimum of 100 clinical coaching hours under faculty supervision.

Education & Professional Requirement

A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in one of the following areas is required:

Health or Health Sciences
Behavioral Sciences
Human Services or other helping professions

At least 3-5 years of professional experience is preferred, but not required.

Apply for CHWC Exam & Practical Skills Evaluation

Ready to apply?

To submit your application, you will need:

CHWC training program completion certificate
Practicum documentation
Degree verification

Gather your documents to register at the link below. Applications must be submitted within the application window and may take up to 14 business days to process.

Transitional Eligibility Pathways

Already a certified coach interested in pursuing the CHWC credential?

As the field of clinical health and well-being coaching continues to evolve, the CHWC certification program recognizes that many experienced professionals have developed substantial education, training, and practice expertise prior to the formal establishment of standardized clinical training pathways.

We are excited to offer two different Transitional Eligibility Pathways through December 2028 that recognize qualifying prior education or professional experience as acceptable preparation for eligibility to sit for the CHWC certification examination.

Degree Path

Bachelor’s degree (or higher in a health field), and
1 year clinical experience, and
Completion of a coach training program, and
More than 200 coaching sessions.

Experience Path

2 years clinical experience, and
Completion of a coach training program, and
More than 300 coaching sessions.

IBC Pilot Program

Individuals who complete an IBC-approved pilot program are eligible to apply for the CHWC exam under the transitional pathway.

Coaching sessions for either path must be a minimum of 20 minutes with at least 75% of the time dedicated to coaching as opposed to education, diagnosis, or delivery of another healthcare service.
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Disclaimer: The certification body reserves the right to establish specific criteria, documentation requirements, and verification processes to ensure that all candidates admitted through this pathway meet the knowledge, skill, and professional practice expectations necessary to protect the public and uphold the integrity of the CHWC credential.