Outline) Comprehensive Study Guide | Latest Update
2026
What version of the NBHWC Content Outline is used for the July 2025 exam
2017 - 2025
What is the purpose of the NBHWC Program Approval Handbook?
To outline the content and competencies required for the NBHWC HWC Certifying Examination.
What are the four main categories covered in the NBHWC examination?
1. Coaching Structure (17-23%) 2. Coaching Process (47-53%) 3. Health & Wellness (17-23%) 4.
Ethics/Legal (7-13%)
What should a coach do prior to a coaching session?
Review materials, eliminate distractions, and become mindful and present.
How does a coach's state affect the client during a session?
A calm and present coach helps the client become calm and receptive, fostering self-awareness and self-
discovery.
What are the aims of the initial coaching session?
To describe the coaching process, review client information, and determine if the client is an
appropriate candidate for coaching.
- Coach clarifies the roles and expectations of both the client and the coach
, NBHWC July 2025 Exam (Based on 2017-2025 Content
Outline) Comprehensive Study Guide | Latest Update
2026
What is established in the Coaching Agreement?
Guidelines and specific parameters of the coaching relationship:
- Interactions: Roles, responsibilities, the expectations of the coach and client, attendance and
cancellation policies, establish boundaries, what is and is not appropriate, what is and is not being
offered
- Logistics: when and where you will meet, how many sessions, duration of sessions, length of program,
cost of program
- Cost of Program: fees and payments
- Confidentiality and Record Keeping
What should a coach establish during the first session?
Rapport with the client and gauge their intentions for coaching.
What is the coach's responsibility regarding client assessments?
To review assessments and other data sources, if any are used.
What is the focus during early coaching sessions?
Exploring the client's values, vision, purpose, and priorities.
- Building trust and rapport
- wellness visions
What is the coach's role in determining the focus of coaching?
, NBHWC July 2025 Exam (Based on 2017-2025 Content
Outline) Comprehensive Study Guide | Latest Update
2026
The coach empowers the client to select an area that feels important, motivating, timely, and client-
directed
What should a coach ensure regarding time management in sessions?
Ensure appropriate time management for this and all sessions.
- Respect the client and gently guide along back to the conversation if they get off track
What is the significance of the coaching process overview?
It clarifies the expectations and responsibilities of both the coach and the client.
What is the importance of establishing rapport in the first session?
It helps create a trusting relationship and sets a positive tone for coaching.
What should a coach clarify about their role during the initial session?
That they will not diagnose or prescribe, nor give unsolicited advice. Examples of what the coach does
and does not do, confidentiality, etc.
What is the client's responsibility in the coaching relationship?
To self-determine their vision, goals, and action steps.
What should be reviewed before determining if a client is suitable for coaching?
, NBHWC July 2025 Exam (Based on 2017-2025 Content
Outline) Comprehensive Study Guide | Latest Update
2026
Information and assessments provided by the client.
- Assess client's intentions for coaching and their readiness
What is the purpose of gauging the client's intentions for coaching?
To understand why coaching is sought and to align the coaching process with the client's needs.
What is the expected outcome of the initial coaching session?
To confirm the coaching agreement and establish a clear understanding of roles and expectations.
How should the coach handle logistics for the coaching session?
Confirm meeting location, conference call arrangements, and other logistical details.
What is the role of the coach in the client's self-discovery process?
To facilitate exploration and reflection, allowing the client to uncover their own insights.
What is the first competency in assessing a client's health and wellbeing?
Have the client assess their current state of health and/or wellbeing.
What should a coach explore regarding a client's health vision?
The client's vision of their optimal health and/or wellbeing.