The Health and Wellness Coaching Certificate, offered by the Loma Linda University School of Public Health, is an online program designed for professionals and laypersons interested in empowering others to improve their health. This three-course program covers topics such as health and wellness, coaching structure and process, and ethics/legal considerations.
Students can complete the certificate over two quarters (spring and summer), with two of the courses requiring weekly synchronous participation via Zoom. The nine units of credit earned can be applied toward an M.P.H. degree in Health Education and Wellness Coaching.
To meet certification exam eligibility requirements, students must complete a minimum of 50 health and wellness coaching sessions outside the program curriculum. While students register for courses through the Office of University Records, the certificate itself is issued by the School of Public Health, which maintains the official record of the certificate and its awarding.
This program not only provides a solid foundation in health education and wellness coaching but also equips students with the skills to become practical guides and partners in helping others adopt new behaviors. Integrating these courses offers a comprehensive approach to whole-person care and prepares students to support individuals in reaching their behavior change goals.
As an occupational therapist, engaged in patient care and academia, the Health and Wellness Certificate program has enhanced my therapeutic communication skills and created a deeper client/student rapport by implementing motivational interviewing. I can see the difference in my client's acceptance of their role in their wellness journey as a true client-centered process and as a result, have seen healthy behavior change.
This synchronous course reviews the wellness coaching process. Introduces students to the practical methodology of motivational interviewing. Explores the techniques and theories associated with this coaching method. It details the skills needed to motivate patients toward healthier lifestyles successfully. Gives attention to practical information required to be a successful health professional. Includes an overview of positive psychology methods and theory.
This asynchronous class discusses current lifestyle diseases, including cardiovascular, metabolic, communicable, and nutritional—concepts regarding risk factors, screening approaches, and risk reduction, impacting specific health parameters.
Covers the fundamentals of the coaching structure and process from coach preparation to program termination, including the legal and ethical implications. Explores specific components of the coaching process with special attention given to the coach/client relationship, empathetic communication skills, the importance of client reflections, and goal setting. Introduces the Wellness Mapping 360 tool to lay the foundation for the coaching plan.
If you want to apply for the Health & Wellness Coaching Certificate, please email Esther Guerpo, Director of Admissions and Alumni Engagement, at [email protected].
For more information on the cost of attendance, visit the LLU website.
LLUH employees may be eligible to apply for tuition benefits to complete this certificate. Check with your immediate supervisor or HR representative.