Becoming a wellness coach is a great career choice for people who want to help others live healthier, happier lives. With more people focusing on their health, the demand for skilled wellness coaches is growing fast.

If you’re thinking about joining this exciting field, choosing the right certification program is the first step. Here are some of the best wellness coach certification programs to consider in 2025.

Certified Health & Wellness Coaching Programs

These programs are great for beginners or anyone who wants to cover all areas of wellness. Some of the top choices include those approved by the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC), such as programs from Duke Integrative Medicine or the Mayo Clinic.

You’ll learn how to support clients through: behavior change, motivational interviewing, and goal setting. When selecting the right programs, be sure to visit the site to learn more.

Functional Medicine Coaching

If you’re interested in helping people with more complex or chronic health issues, functional medicine might be the right path. The Functional Medicine Coaching Academy (FMCA) works closely with the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM). Their program teaches how to coach clients by focusing on the root causes of health problems, combining medical knowledge with lifestyle change support.

Holistic Wellness Coaching

Holistic coaching looks at the whole person-mind, body, and spirit. Programs like those from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) or Wellcoaches School of Coaching teach you how to help clients find balance in all areas of life. You may also learn about:

• natural healing methods
• mindfulness
• energy work
• emotional wellness

Nutrition-Based Coaching

If food and nutrition are your passion, there are great coaching programs that focus just on that. Precision Nutrition (PN Level 1 & 2) and NASM Certified Nutrition Coach are two trusted options. You’ll learn the science of nutrition and how to help clients make better eating choices, whether they want to:

• lose weight
• boost energy
• manage health conditions

Fitness and Wellness Coaching

These programs are for those who want to combine fitness and coaching. Certifications from the American Council on Exercise (ACE) or National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) teach both exercise knowledge and how to help clients stick to healthy habits. You’ll be able to work with people who want to get stronger, move more, and feel better overall.

Life & Wellness Coaching

Life coaching blends personal growth with wellness support. If you’re interested in helping people set and reach goals in all parts of their lives, this might be the route for you. Programs from the International Coach Federation (ICF) or the Coach Training Alliance (CTA) focus on mindset, motivation, and lasting lifestyle changes.

Mindfulness-Based Coaching

Mindfulness coaching teaches people how to slow down, manage stress, and become more aware of their thoughts and feelings. Programs like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training or Mindful Schools Certification are ideal for this. You’ll learn meditation techniques and how to help clients stay present and balanced.

How to Choose the Right Program

Pick a program that matches your goals. If you want to work in clinics or hospitals, look for NBHWC-approved courses.

If you plan to run your own business or coach clients online, you might prefer a program with a strong focus on coaching skills and business training. No matter which one you choose, a good certification can help you make a real difference in people’s lives.

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