Frequently Asked Questions

Health coaching has proven its clinical value, but the profession lacks unified infrastructure. Coaches lack a national credentialing pathway, and practices struggle to find and integrate qualified coaches. NHCN solves these gaps by creating a credentialed, connected, outcomes-driven network that supports both coaches and clinics.

NHCN is built on three integrated components:

• The Health Coach Network: A national registry of credentialed, verified coaches
• Health Coach Practice Advisors: Expert support for integrating coaching into clinical practice
• Health Coach Link: A technology platform for communication, documentation, and outcomes tracking

Follow these steps:

1. Complete an approved or accredited health coaching program
2. Submit your application through our secure portal
3. Provide documentation of training, background, and credentials
4. Accept NHCN's Code of Ethics and standards
5. Our team reviews your application (2-3 business days)
6. Upon approval, you're added to the national registry

NHCN accepts completion of accredited or recognized health coaching programs, including (but not limited to): ICF (International Coach Federation) certified programs, NBHWC (National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching) certified programs, university-based health coaching programs, and other nationally recognized training pathways. We evaluate each program for rigor and alignment with health coaching standards.

Credentialing requirements include:

• Completion of an approved training program
• Demonstrated competency in coaching methodology
• Commitment to NHCN's Code of Ethics
• Agreement to standardized documentation practices
• Background and identity verification
• Commitment to ongoing professional development

NHCN is free to join for coaches. We believe credentialing should be accessible to all qualified coaches. We support coaches through our registry, network opportunities, and professional resources. If you're interested in additional services like coaching matching or platform features, we'll discuss options that work for your practice.

Upon approval, you'll:

• Be added to the national registry
• Receive credentials and verification documents
• Gain access to NHCN community resources
• Be eligible to connect with clinical practices
• Access professional development opportunities
• Have access to Health Coach Link platform (if selected)

Clinics can search the National Registry of credentialed coaches by location, specialization, and availability. All coaches in the registry have been verified for credentials and professionalism. Clinics can also work with our Practice Advisors to identify the right coaching fit and support implementation into your care model.

NHCN provides three main services to clinics:

• Coach Matching: Access to our national registry of verified coaches
• Practice Advisory: Expert support for workflow design, documentation, and reimbursement alignment
• Technology Platform: Health Coach Link for secure communication, scheduling, and outcomes tracking

Yes! Our Practice Advisors specialize in reimbursement strategy and workflow design. We can help clinics explore direct insurance billing, value-based arrangements, employer partnerships, and patient self-pay models. We work with you to identify sustainable revenue models that work for your organization and patient population.

Pricing is customized based on your clinic's size, geographic location, and service needs. Access to the registry is complimentary. Practice advisory support and Health Coach Link platform access are based on your specific needs and scale. We'll discuss options during your initial consultation with no obligation.

Health Coach Link is NHCN's secure technology platform that connects coaches and practices. It enables:

• Secure messaging between coaches and patients
• Appointment scheduling and session management
• Standardized documentation and session notes
• Outcomes tracking and progress reporting
• Integration with clinical workflows

Yes. Health Coach Link meets HIPAA standards for data security and privacy. All communications are encrypted, and access is role-based and controlled. We maintain regular security audits and backups to ensure your data is protected.

Most credentialing applications are reviewed within 2-3 business days. If we need additional documentation or clarification, we'll contact you directly. Once approved, you're added to the registry immediately.

If your application doesn't meet our standards, we'll provide specific feedback about what's needed. You can reapply after addressing our recommendations. We want to support coaches in meeting our high standards.

Yes. Credentialing is an ongoing commitment. We require coaches to maintain continuing education, adhere to our Code of Ethics, and demonstrate continued engagement with outcomes-driven practice. Details about renewal requirements will be provided upon approval.

We're here to help! You can reach us:

• Email: info@nhcn.org
• Coaches: coaches@nhcn.org
• Clinics: clinics@nhcn.org