Pros and Cons of Being a Nurse Health Coach + Salary + Steps to Become


Written By: Jennifer SchletteJennifer Schlette MSN, RN

Jennifer Schlette is a registered nurse in pediatric critical care in New York City. She is the former Director of Undergraduate Nursing at a college located in New York. After obtaining her BSN from the College of Mount Saint Vincent, she went on to complete her MSN. Jennifer also freelances as a fact-checker for a mother’s advice publication. Read Full Bio »»
MSN, RN


If you are considering a career as a nurse health coach, you will want to weigh the pros and cons before making your decision. Do you know what are the pros and cons of being a nurse health coach? Does the salary appeal to you? How about job security? Do you know what steps you need to take to become a nurse health coach? Keep reading for all the details on the top 10 pros and cons of being a nurse health coach + salary + steps to become one.


What Exactly is a Nurse Health Coach?


A Nurse Health Coach is a specially trained professional who helps patients manage their health and wellness. Nurse Health Coaches work with patients to create plans that address the patient's specific needs. They work with individuals or groups to help them reach their health goals. Nurse Health Coaches are not medical providers and do not give medical advice. Instead, they serve as a guide and resource for those seeking healthier lives.


What Does a Nurse Health Coach Do?


So, let’s take a look at what does a nurse health coach do? Before you decide on becoming a nurse health coach, I am sure you want to know what you are getting yourself into. Below you will find the most common duties of a nurse health coach.

1) Provide wellness strategies to reduce high-risk behaviors.

Nurse health coaches provide wellness strategies to people at risk for developing chronic health conditions. Working with a nurse health coach can teach people how to make lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of developing severe health problems. Nurse health coaches support and guide patients on various topics, including nutrition, exercise, stress management, and smoking cessation. Becoming a nurse health coach could be the perfect career if you want to make a difference in people's lives.

2) Establish wellness goals and objectives with patients

As a Nurse Health Coach, you will serve as a mentor and guide for patients as they work to establish wellness goals and objectives. You will help them to set realistic goals, develop healthy habits, and make positive lifestyle choices. In addition, you will coach them through the process of making necessary changes to achieve their goals. You will be an invaluable resource for patients striving to improve their health and well-being.

3) Identify a patient’s health risks and concerns.

Nurse health coaches are a vital part of the healthcare team. They play an essential role in identifying patients' health risks and concerns. Nurse health coaches are often the first to spot signs of trouble.

4) Collaborate with a patient’s healthcare providers to communicate the patient’s goals:

Nurse health coaches are essential in coordinating care among a patient's healthcare providers. As a nurse health coach, you will collaborate with the patient's providers to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the patient's goals. This may involve communicating with the providers regularly, reviewing the patient's progress, and ensuring that everyone is aware of any changes in the plan. By coordinating care among the patient's healthcare team, you can help to ensure that the patient receives the best possible care.

5) Develop care and coaching plans for each patient:

As a Nurse Health Coach, you will develop care and coaching plans for each patient. This will involve working closely with the patient to understand their health needs and goals and creating a program to help them achieve these. The care and coaching plans that you develop will be tailored specifically to each patient and will take into account their individual circumstances.

6) Evaluate a patient's progress toward their wellness goals:

As a Nurse Health Coach, you will evaluate a patient's progress toward their wellness goals. This will include assessing the patient's current health status, reviewing their medical history, and evaluating their lifestyle habits. You will also be responsible for developing a plan of care that includes nutrition, physical activity, and stress management. In addition, you will provide support and encouragement to help the patient reach their goals.

7) Motivate patients to continue practicing appropriate health and wellness behaviors:

As a nurse health coach, you will be essential in motivating patients to adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. You can help patients overcome obstacles and stick to their wellness goals by providing support and encouragement. In addition, you will serve as a resource for information and advice on health and wellness topics. By sharing your knowledge and expertise, you can empower patients to make informed choices about their health. As a result, you will help patients improve their overall health and well-being.

8) Provide group coaching or workshops:

As a Nurse Health Coach, you will provide group coaching or workshops. These sessions will be packed with actionable tips, techniques, and strategies that participants can use to improve a patient’s health. You will guide participants through discussion and activities designed to promote reflection and change. Your goal is to help participants better understand themselves and what they need to do to live healthier lives.


Where Does a Nurse Health Coach Work?


Nurse health coaches are an essential part of the healthcare team and play a vital role in disease prevention and health promotion. You will find nurse health coaches working in a variety of settings.

1) Hospitals:

Nurse Health Coaches work in hospitals to help patients on their journey to better health. Nurse Health coaches partner with patients to help them make lifestyle changes and set goals to improve their overall health.

2) Clinics

Nurse Health coaches are an essential part of the clinic team. They work with patients to help them manage their health and wellness in the outpatient setting.

3) Private Practice:

Nurse health coaches work in private practice. In private practice, a nurse health coach provides one-on-one support to clients who want to improve their health and well-being. Nurse health coaches use techniques to help clients reach their goals, including goal setting, lifestyle education, and behavior change counseling. Nurse health coaches also serve as a resource for their clients, providing information about healthy living and directing them to resources that can help them make lasting changes.

4) Insurance Companies:

There is a new breed of health professionals working in insurance companies, and they are known as Nurse Health Coaches. These specially trained nurses work with patients to help them improve their health and achieve their wellness goals. Nurse Health Coaches are experts in motivational interviewing and behavior change. They use these skills to help patients make lifestyle changes that will lead to better health.

5) Community Health Centers:

Nurse health coaches are a vital part of the community health care team. They work hard to support and guide patients, helping them make healthy lifestyle choices. Nurse health coaches are also an excellent resource for promoting preventative care.

6) Schools:

Did you know that Nurse Health Coaches work in schools? That's right - these skilled professionals are responsible for helping students maintain their health and well-being. Nurse Health Coaches work with students of all ages, providing guidance on nutrition, exercise, stress management, and more. In addition to working in schools, Nurse Health Coaches also offer services to families and communities.

7) Business:

Nurse Health Coaches work in corporations to promote health and wellness in the workplace. They provide employees with health education, guidance on making healthy lifestyle choices, and support in making lasting changes. Nurse Health Coaches are trained to help people make behavior changes that improve their health and use various techniques.


What is the Typical Work Schedule of a Nurse Health Coach?


Before you become a Nurse Health Coach, it is important to know what your typical work schedule will look like. Nurse health coaches typically work during regular business hours; however, some positions may require evening or weekend work. Nurse Health Coaches usually work from 9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday. Some Nurse Health Coaches may work evenings or weekends to accommodate their patients' schedules. Nurse Health Coaches may also be on call 24 hours a day to support patients experiencing a health crisis.


What are the Most Important Skills And Abilities Required to Successfully Work as a Nurse Health Coach?


Nurse health coaches possess a unique blend of skills and abilities that allow them to effectively support and guide patients on their journey to improved health. Before embarking on the path to becoming a Nurse Health Coach, there are some skills and abilities that you should possess in order to excel in this career. Below you will find the most common skills and abilities for a Nurse Health Coach to have.

1) Effective Communication:

Nurse health coaches are a vital part of the healthcare team. They act as a conduit between patients and providers, helping to ensure that communication is clear and compelling. Nurse health coaches must have excellent communication skills to be successful. They must be able to listen attentively to both patients and providers, and they must be able to express themselves clearly and concisely.

In addition, nurse health coaches must be able to build rapport with both patients and providers. By developing positive relationships, nurse health coaches can create an environment of trust and collaboration, which is essential for providing high-quality care.

2) Motivational interviewing:

Nurse health coaches must be able to perform motivational interviewing to help patients make positive changes to their health. Motivational interviewing is a counseling style that helps people identify and overcome their ambivalence about making change. Nurse health coaches use this technique to explore a patient's reasons for wanting or not wanting to make healthy lifestyle changes.

3) Goal setting:

A Nurse Health Coach must be able to set goals so that their patients can see improvements in their overall health. By goal setting, the Nurse Health Coach can help their patients by providing them with a guide to follow and keeping them accountable. This accountability will lead to better patient outcomes.

4) A solid knowledge base in nutrition, physical activity, and stress management:

As a Nurse Health Coach, you must have a solid knowledge base in nutrition, physical activity, and stress management. You must be able to lead your patients towards healthier lifestyle choices by providing them with the information and resources they need to make informed decisions.

5) Committed to lifelong learning:

As a nurse health coach, you must be committed to life-long learning. You will never stop learning about new health and wellness information. You will also need to keep up with the latest changes in the healthcare industry.

6) Ability to listen:

As a Nurse Health Coach, the ability to listen is essential. Not only do you need to be able to listen to your patients, but you also need to be able to listen to your colleagues. By carefully listening to patients and colleagues, you can better understand the healthcare system and how it works.

In addition, by listening to your patients, you can better understand their needs and concerns. By carefully listening to patients and colleagues, you can improve the quality of care you provide.

7) Empathy and Compassion:

Nurse health coaches must be compassionate and caring people. They have to be able to understand the emotional needs of their patients and be able to provide support. Nurse health coaches must also empathize with their patients and know what they are going through. Nurse health coaches must have a strong desire to help others and be passionate about their job.

8) Well-organized:

To be a Nurse Health Coach, being well-organized is a must. After all, you will be responsible for helping people manage their health and well-being, which requires a lot of planning and coordination.

9) Time-Management skills:

As a Nurse Health Coach, you must have time-management skills. That means being able to juggle multiple tasks and priorities at the same time. It also means being able to find time for yourself, so you can stay healthy and sane.

10) Work well under pressure:

As a nurse health coach, you must work well under pressure. That means juggling multiple tasks, managing stress, and remaining calm in the face of adversity.


How Much Does a Nurse Health Coach Make?


So, I am sure you are dying to know how much a nurse health coach makes. Let's start with how much an average nurse health coach's salary is. The average nurse health coach's salary is $65,158 a year. This means that you will be seeing a monthly income of $5,430 or $31.33 an hour.

Let’s now work from the bottom up. The entry-level salary for a nurse health coach is $44,840 a year. If you were to break this annual salary down, then you will have a monthly income of $3,740 or $21.56 an hour. A nurse health coach who has a bit more experience and who has been working between one and four years can expect their hourly salary to grow to $23.47. This means your monthly income will increase to $4,070 or you will be earning an annual salary of $48,810.

A nurse health coach with five to nine years of experience can expect an annual salary of $59,460. This will be an hourly wage of $28.59 or a monthly income of $4,960. Once you have gained more experience and you have ten to nineteen years under your belt as a nurse health coach, you can expect an hourly wage of $35.58 an hour or $6,170 a month. This is an annual wage of $74,010.

As a nurse health coach with twenty or more years of experience, your annual income will be $94,720. This is $7,890 a month or $45.54 an hour.

Level of Experience Hourly Monthly Annual
Entry-Level $21.56 $3,740 $44,840
1-4 Years of Experience $23.47 $4,070 $48,810
5-9 Years of Experience $28.59 $4,960 $59,460
10-19 Years of Experience $35.58 $6,170 $74,010
20 Years or More Experience $45.54 $7,890 $94,720
Average Salary $31.33 $5,430 $65,158


Is There a Demand for Nurse Health Coaches?


There's no doubt that Nurse Health Coaches are in demand. Nurse health coaches provide support and guidance on everything from nutrition and exercise to stress management and sleep hygiene. They also serve as a motivator, helping their clients stay on track with their goals. The following are the top 3 reasons why there is a high demand for nurse health coaches.

1) Focus on preventative care:

Nurse health coaches are in high demand because there is a national focus on preventative care. Nurse health coaches help patients develop healthy lifestyle habits to prevent chronic diseases.

2) Emphasis on healthy living:

The second reason why Nurse health coaches are in high demand is due to the current emphasis on healthy living. Health coaches help individuals develop healthy habits and make lifestyle changes that can lead to improved health.

3) Nurse health coaches can reduce the cost of healthcare:

The third reason why Nurse health coaches are in high demand these days is because they can help to reduce the cost of healthcare. By providing guidance and support on how to live a healthier lifestyle, nurse health coaches can help their patients avoid costly medical procedures and medications. In addition, they can also help patients to better manage chronic conditions, which can also save a significant amount of money over the long term.


What is the Step-By-Step Process to Become a Nurse Health Coach


1. The first step that you will need to complete to become a Nurse health coach is to earn your bachelor's degree in Nursing. When deciding on which nursing program to attend, you must ensure that you graduate from a school of nursing accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). A Bachelor's degree has now become the national standard for nurses to obtain.

2. Next, you must pass the National Certification Licensure Exam (NCLEX).

3. You must apply to the state you intend to work in for your license.

4. Before beginning work as a nurse health coach, you may have to earn specific certifications. The certifications you may have to earn will be based on where you work. Each institution will have its own standard on what is required. These certifications may include, Basic Life support (BLS), Advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS), and pediatric advanced life support (PALS).

5. You can then seek to earn certification as a Nurse Health coach. You can earn certification in Health coaching through the International Nurse Coach Association (INCA).

You can earn two other certifications through The American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation (AHNCC) as a nurse health coach. You can earn the Nurse Coach (NC-BC) and the Health and Wellness Nurse Coach (HWNC-BC). The National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching, in collaboration with the National Board of Medical Examiners, offers a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (HBC-HWC) credential.



Top Cons of Being a Nurse Health Coach

(The following are the top 10 disadvantages of being a Nurse Health Coach.)


1. It can be hard to get people to change.

As a Nurse Health Coach, you are responsible for advising patients on their health and helping them make necessary lifestyle changes. But let's face it, one of the cons of being a nurse health coach is that most people do not want to hear what you have to say. They would rather live in denial and continue down the path of self-destruction. It is not easy trying to help someone when they don't want to help themselves. Secondly, Nurse Health Coaches often have to deal with complex patients. Patients who are non-compliant, uncooperative, and just plain rude.

2. If you do not adapt well to change, this career may not be for you.

You need to be comfortable with change, as health goals and recommendations may shift over time. If you are a person who gets frustrated with change and cannot change gears quickly, I think becoming a Nurse health coach may not be your calling

3. Your job as a Nurse Health coach can be emotionally draining

Nurse Health Coaches often work with patients with chronic or complex health conditions. One of the top cons of being a nurse health coach is that this can be emotionally draining. It can be challenging to remain positive and motivated when working with chronic or complex health conditions.

4. You may be on call.

As a Nurse health coach, you will need to be on call to your patients who may be experiencing a crisis. This can be disruptive to your life and the lives of your loved ones. You may be interrupted in the middle of the night or at special events.

5. You will have to keep up with research.

One of the biggest disadvantages of being a nurse health coach is you must keep up with the latest medical research and developments. This will be tedious and somewhat time-consuming. As a result, you will need a lot of patience and perseverance to keep up with everything.

6. You may end up working odd hours to accommodate your patient’s schedule.

As a Nurse Health Coach, you may work odd hours to accommodate your patient's schedule. This can leave you feeling overwhelmed and fatigued. You will not have an outstanding work-life balance at times.

7. You may feel extremely isolated at work.

Another one of the cons of being a nurse health coach is that it can be a very isolating job. You work alone most of the time, without much interaction with other people. It can be tough to stay motivated when you are by yourself.

8. Your work can be inconsistent.

Nurse health coaches often find themselves in a situation where their work is inconsistent. You may see patients for a few sessions and then not see them again for months. This can be frustrating because it is hard to know whether or not you are making a difference in someone's life or when you are getting your next paycheck.

9. Your job can be stressful.

Nurse health coaches must be able to handle a large caseload and stress, often working with patients who are resistant to change. The stress that this will put on you is one of the disadvantages of being a nurse health coach. In addition, nurse health coaches often have to work long hours, including evenings and weekends.

10. You may have intrusive families to deal with.

Nurse health coaches may sometimes deal with intrusive family members. Intrusive family members try to take over the patient's care or make decisions for the patient without the patient's consent. Nurse health coaches need to be able to set boundaries with intrusive family members to protect the patient's rights and maintain a professional relationship with the family. Intrusive family members can be a challenge to deal with, so if you can not stand up for yourself or your patient, this is not your career.


Top Pros of Being a Nurse Health Coach

(The following are the top 10 advantages of being a Nurse Health Coach.)


1. You can start your own business.

Owning your own business as a nurse health coach can be a very rewarding experience and is one of the biggest advantages of being a nurse health coach. You will be able to help people improve their health and well-being and, at the same time, earn a good income. If you are a nurse health coach, you know that you have the power to make a real difference in people's lives. And when you own your own business, you can be your own boss and set your own hours.

2. As a Nurse health coach, you are doing rewarding work.

As a nurse health coach, you are doing rewarding work. You are helping people to improve their health and well-being. By helping patients to make lifestyle changes, nurse health coaches can make a real difference in their lives.

3. Your job is not very physical.

One of the pros of being a nurse health coach is that your job is not physical. You do not have to lift patients or stand for long periods. In fact, you can do your job from the comfort of a chair. You do not have to worry about injuring yourself and being out of commission.

4. You can work from home.

Imagine having a job where you can work from the comfort of your home. No more commuting to and from work. No more office politics. And best of all, you get to help people improve their health. That is precisely what you can do as a Nurse Health Coach, all from the convenience of your own home.

5. You can travel and work.

Another one of the pros of being a nurse health coach is that there is no need to stay home when you are on vacation - you can work from anywhere! That is the beauty of being a Nurse Health Coach - you can work from wherever you are, maybe on the Las Vegas strip. And if you are looking for a change of pace, you can even travel and work simultaneously. Just think, you could be working in a tropical paradise or a snow-capped mountain resort. The possibilities are endless!

6. You can achieve financial freedom.

Nurse health coaches often talk about the importance of work-life balance and achieving financial freedom. But what does that really mean? Nurse health coaches can often achieve financial freedom by working fewer hours, set their own prices, and having more control over their work schedule. So, if you are looking to be a nurse health coach, remember that financial freedom is possible – it just takes a little planning and hard work.

7. You do not have to work with infectious patients.

Being a Nurse Health Coach has many perks. One of the top pros of being a nurse health coach is that you do not have to work with infectious patients. You can work with all sorts of patients, but you do not have to worry about getting sick.

8. You can make your own hours.

As a Nurse Health Coach, you can make your own hours. You can set your own schedule and work when it is convenient for you. You can work around your other commitments and still get the job done.

9. There are multiple settings that you can work in

Nurse health coaches work in various settings, including hospitals, primary care clinics, community health centers, and corporate wellness programs. So, if one location does not fit your needs, there are others to try.

10. You may be saving somebody’s life.

Nurse health coaches help patients achieve lifestyle goals that improve their overall health. One of the advantages of being a nurse health coach is that you may be saving somebody's life through lifestyle changes. That's a lot of pressure! But it is also an incredible opportunity to make a real difference in someone's life.



Breaking Down the Salary of a Nurse Health Coach


What Is The Starting Salary Of A Nurse Health Coach?


The starting salary for a Nurse Health Coach is $44,840 a year. This is $3,740 a month or $862 a week. This will break down to an hourly wage of $21.56.

Hourly$21.56
Weekly $862
Monthly$3,740
Annual$44,840


What Is The Average Salary Of A Nurse Health Coach?


The average nurse health coach's salary is $65,158 a year. This is a weekly income of $1,253 a week or $5,430 a month. This is $31.33 an hour.

Hourly$31.33
Weekly $1,253
Monthly$5,430
Annual$65,158
(Source: Ziprecruiter.com)


What Is The Average Nurse Health Coach Salary In Your State?


As with most career paths in nursing, your nurse health coach salary will differ depending on where you practice. In Alabama, you will earn an annual income of $48,980. You will make much more for the same job in California. As a Nurse Health Coach in California, you will hear $97,610 a year.

State Hourly Monthly Annual
Alabama $23.55 $4,080 $48,980
Alaska $36.36 $6,300 $75,630
Arizona $30.53 $5,290 $63,500
Arkansas $23.41 $4,060 $48,700
California $46.93 $8,130 $97,610
Colorado $30.48 $5,280 $63,390
Connecticut $33.17 $5,750 $69,000
Delaware $29.92 $5,190 $62,240
Florida $28.13 $4,880 $58,500
Georgia $29.98 $5,200 $62,350
Hawaii $39.85 $6,910 $82,880
Idaho $27.66 $4,800 $57,540
Illinois $28.94 $5,020 $60,190
Indiana $26.60 $4,610 $55,330
Iowa $24.41 $4,230 $50,780
Kansas $25.34 $4,390 $52,700
Kentucky $27.32 $4,740 $56,820
Louisiana $26.72 $4,630 $55,580
Maine $27.25 $4,720 $56,670
Maryland $30.97 $5,370 $64,410
Massachusetts $36.65 $6,350 $76,240
Michigan $28.39 $4,920 $59,050
Minnesota $31.27 $5,420 $65,050
Mississippi $23.91 $4,140 $49,730
Missouri $25.29 $4,380 $52,600
Montana $27.57 $4,780 $57,350
Nebraska $25.87 $4,480 $53,810
Nevada $33.89 $5,880 $70,500
New Hampshire $29.36 $5,090 $61,070
New Jersey $34.02 $5,900 $70,770
New Mexico $30.12 $5,220 $62,650
New York $35.24 $6,110 $73,300
North Carolina $27.25 $4,720 $56,670
North Dakota $26.39 $4,580 $54,900
Ohio $27.61 $4,790 $57,430
Oklahoma $27.07 $4,690 $56,310
Oregon $37.52 $6,500 $78,040
Pennsylvania $28.38 $4,920 $59,020
Rhode Island $31.06 $5,380 $64,600
South Carolina $26.16 $4,530 $54,410
South Dakota $22.70 $3,940 $47,220
Tennessee $25.51 $4,420 $53,060
Texas $29.67 $5,140 $61,720
Utah $26.89 $4,660 $55,930
Vermont $28.15 $4,880 $58,560
Virginia $28.81 $4,990 $59,920
Washington $35.78 $6,200 $74,430
West Virginia $25.42 $4,410 $52,870
Wisconsin $28.50 $4,940 $59,290
Wyoming $28.51 $4,940 $59,300



Highest Paid Nurse Health Coaches in the Nation


What Are The 10 Highest Paying States For Nurse Health Coaches?


As we have previously discussed, each state pays a different rate for nurse health coaches. So, let’s now take a look at the highest paying states for Nurse Health Coaches. California pays the highest rates for nurse health coaches. In this state, you will earn an average annual salary of $97,610. Hawaii is another state that pays its nurse health coaches fairly well. Here you will be making an average annual salary of $82,880. Massachusetts, Oregon, Alaska, Washington, New York, New Jersey and Nevada will all have you earning an average yearly salary in the $70,000 range. Connecticut will have you earning a salary in the mid to high $60,000 range.

Rank State Average
Annual Salary
1 California $97,610
2 Hawaii $82,880
3 Oregon $78,040
4 Massachusetts $76,240
5 Alaska $75,630
6 Washington $74,430
7 New York $73,300
8 New Jersey $70,770
9 Nevada $70,500
10 Connecticut $69,000


What Are The 10 Highest Paying Metros For Nurse Health Coaches?


The highest paying metros for Nurse Health coaches are in the state of California. This makes sense since California is the highest-paid state overall for nurse health coaches. The highest paying metro in California for nurse health coaches is San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA. In this metro, you will be earning $120,610 a year. Chico, CA, is the lowest paying metro for nurse health coaches. In Chico, CA, you will earn $92,540 a year.

Rank Metro Average
Annual Salary
1 San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA $120,610
2 San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA $117,140
3 Vallejo-Fairfield, CA $115,910
4 Santa Rosa, CA $110,650
5 Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA $109,620
6 Napa, CA $107,170
7 Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA $106,310
8 Modesto, CA $101,390
9 Stockton-Lodi, CA $95,430
10 Chico, CA $92,540



Top Organizations and Associations for Nurse Health Coaches


National Society Of Health Coaches: The National Society of Nurse Health Coaches is a professional organization that promotes the health and well-being of nurses through health coaching. The Society provides resources and training for nurse health coaches and advocates for the profession at the state and federal levels.

American Holistic Nurses Association: The American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) is a professional membership organization that supports holistic nursing and promotes the integration of holistic care in all nursing practices. The AHNA defines holistic nursing as "a way of being and a professional orientation grounded in caring relationships within which nurses facilitate the healing process of individuals, families, communities, and ecosystems." When appropriate, holistic nurses also integrate complementary and alternative therapies into their care plans.

Nurse Health Coaches are certified by the AHNA to provide individualized coaching to support patients in making lifestyle changes that improve their health and well-being.


My Final Thoughts


So, there you have it – the top 10 pros and cons of being a nurse health coach + salary + steps to become one. The nurse health coach role is a relatively new one that is growing in popularity. It is a great way to use your nursing skills and help people live healthier lives. It is not an easy job by any means. Still, it can be a gratifying career if you love helping people and are passionate about nursing. I hope the pros and cons of being a nurse health coach I have presented to you have made your decision on this career path a bit easier.


Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert


1. Is Nurse Health Coach A Good Career?

Nurse Health Coach is a great career choice for those who want to make a difference in the lives of others. Nurse Health Coaches work with patients to help them make lifestyle changes that improve their health. They provide support and guidance and partner with other healthcare professionals to create customized care plans. Nurse Health Coaches also play an essential role in educating patients about their health conditions and treatment options. Being a Nurse Health Coach is the perfect career if you are passionate about helping others live healthier lives.


2. On Average, How Much Does A Nurse Health Coach Make Per Hour?

The average nurse health coach's salary per hour is $31.33.

$31.33


3. How Many Hours A Week Does A Nurse Health Coach Work?

The number of hours you will be working as a Nurse Health coach will vary from job to job. You will work around 40 hours a week if you are working full-time. If you work part-time, you will work about 20 hours a week.


4. Is Being A Nurse Health Coach Stressful?

Being a Nurse Health Coach can be stressful. You are constantly having to monitor your patient's health, making sure they are getting the proper nutrition and exercise. You also have to track their medications and ensure they are taking them correctly. And, if they are not following your advice, you must try to convince them to change their ways.


5. Do I Need To Be Certified To Work As A Nurse Health Coach?

To work, one is not required to earn certification as a Nurse Health Coach.


6. What Certifications Are Required Or Recommended For A Nurse Health Coach?

As a Nurse Health coach, you may have to earn specific certifications. The certifications you may have to earn will be based on where you work. These certifications may include, Basic Life support (BLS), Advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS), and pediatric advanced life support (PALS).

The recommended certifications as a Nurse Health coach will showcase your knowledge and skills. You can earn certification through Certification information found at International Nurse Coach Association (INCA). You can earn two other certifications through The American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation (AHNCC) as a nurse health coach. You can earn your the Nurse Coach (NC-BC) and the Health and Wellness Nurse Coach (HWNC-BC). The National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching, in collaboration with the National Board of Medical Examiners, offers a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (HBC-HWC) credential.


7. How Long Does It Take To Become A Nurse Health Coach?

It will take four years to complete your Bachelor's degree in Nursing to become a Nurse health coach. If you decide that you want to become certified, you will be looking at an additional one to two years. The International Nurse Coach Association (INCA) requires that you have worked for two years before sitting for certification, as well as 60 contact hours and 60 hours of coaching experience. The Holistic Nurse Board Certified (HN-BC) credential requires one year of full-time holistic nursing experience and 40 hours of continued nursing education in holistic nurse practices.


8. How Much Does It Cost To Become A Nurse Health Coach?

A Bachelor’s degree in Nursing will cost anywhere from $20,000 to $200,000.


9. What Kind Of Career Advancement Opportunities Are There For Nurse Health Coaches?

Nurse health coaches typically have opportunities for career advancement within their organization. Many times, they are promoted to coordinator or manager positions. They may also have the chance to become an educator or trainer for other nurse health coaches.

Additionally, some nurse health coaches start their own businesses or consulting firms. This allows them to work with various clients and set their own hours. Nurse health coaching is a rapidly growing field, so there are many opportunities for those passionate about helping others improve their health and well-being.


10. What Are The 5 Most Common Nurse Health Coach Interview Questions?

1. What inspired you to become a Nurse Health Coach?
2. What are the most essential factors in achieving success as a Nurse Health Coach?
3. What do you think is the critical difference between Nurse Health Coaches and other types of health professionals?
4. What are the biggest challenges that Nurse Health Coaches face?
5. What do you think sets Nurse Health Coaches apart from other health professionals?



11. Can I Make Money As A Online Nurse Health Coach?

As a Nurse Health Coach, you can definitely make money online! You can offer your services to clients worldwide and help them improve their health and well-being. Nurse Health Coaches are in high demand, so if you have the skills and knowledge, there are many opportunities for you to make a significant income.


12. Can A Nurse Health Coach Work In A Hospital?

While Nurse Health Coaches can work in various settings, they are particularly well-suited to work in hospitals. This is because they can provide vital support to patients during their hospital stay and help them to make the necessary lifestyle changes before they are discharged. As more and more hospitals adopt this model of care, it is clear that Nurse Health Coaches are here to stay.


13. Are There Any Remote Nurse Health Coach Jobs?

Nurse health coaches play an essential role in this process by providing guidance and support to patients as they work to make lifestyle changes. While most nurse health coach jobs are based in hospitals or clinics, many remote nurse health coach positions are available. These jobs allow nurses to work from home, providing them with greater flexibility and freedom. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a nurse health coach, check out the remote job listings. You may be surprised at just how many opportunities are out there.


14. How To Start A Nurse Health Coaching Business?

There are many things to consider when starting your own business. Still, the most important thing is being passionate about your work. If you are interested in starting your own nurse health coaching business, there are a few things you need to do to get started. First, you will need to obtain a nursing license. Next, you will need to complete a nurse health coaching certification program. Finally, you will need to develop a business plan and marketing strategy. Nurse health coaching is a fulfilling and rewarding career that allows you to make a difference in the lives of others.


15. Is It Hard To Get Clients As A Nurse Health Coach?

If you are thinking about becoming a Nurse Health Coach, you might wonder how hard it is to get clients. The answer, of course, depends on several factors. Nurse Health Coaches come from all sorts of backgrounds, and each of them has their own marketing strategy. Some Nurse Health Coaches have an easy time finding clients, while others find it a bit more challenging. Ultimately, the amount of effort you put into finding clients will determine your success as a Nurse Health Coach. So, if you are willing to put in the work, there is a good chance you'll be able to find the clients you need to build a successful business.


16. How Can I Build A Successful Nurse Health Coaching Program?

Nurse health coaching is an evidence-based approach to improving patient health outcomes. Nurse health coaches work with patients to set and achieve health goals like quitting smoking or losing weight. Nurse health coaching programs have been shown to improve patient satisfaction, reduce hospital readmissions, and lower healthcare costs.

Building a successful nurse health coaching program requires careful planning and execution. First, you will need to identify the target population for your program. This may include patients with chronic diseases, those at risk for developing chronic diseases, or those who simply want to improve their overall health.

Once you have identified your target population, you must develop a plan for recruiting and training nurse health coaches. This plan should include a process for selecting qualified individuals and providing them with the necessary training and support. Finally, you will need to implement your program and monitor its progress over time. Following these steps can build a successful nurse health coaching program that helps patients improve their health and well-being.


17. What Is The Difference Between A Nutritionist And A Nurse Health Coach?

A nutritionist is a food expert who helps people to make better choices about what they eat. A nurse health coach is a medical professional who helps people to make better choices about their health and wellness. Both nutritionists and nurse health coaches may work with clients one-on-one, in groups, or in communities. They may also work in schools, hospitals, or other healthcare settings.

Nurse health coaches typically have more medical training than nutritionists, and they may be able to provide guidance on exercise, sleep, and stress management. However, nutritionists and nurse health coaches both can help people improve their overall health by making small changes in their diet and lifestyle.


18. What Are The Different Types Of Health Coaches?

Nurse health coaches are one type of health coach. Nurse health coaches work with patients to help them manage their health conditions and improve their overall wellness. Nurse health coaches may also provide education about healthy lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise.

Other types of health coaches include personal health coaches and corporate health coaches.

Personal health coaches work with individuals to help them set and reach their health goals. Corporate health coaches work with businesses to promote healthy lifestyle choices among employees. Health coaching is a rapidly growing field, and there are many different types of health coaches to meet the needs of other individuals and organizations.

Other health coaches include lifestyle coaches, wellness coaches, and nutrition coaches. Lifestyle coaches help individuals to make changes in their lifestyle, such as eating a healthy diet or getting regular exercise. Wellness coaches provide guidance and support to help individuals achieve their personal wellness goals. Nutrition coaches work with individuals to develop healthy eating habits and choose nutritious foods. Community health coaches work with local organizations to promote community health initiatives.


Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN
Jennifer Schlette is a registered nurse in pediatric critical care in New York City. She is the former Director of Undergraduate Nursing at a college located in New York. After obtaining her BSN from the College of Mount Saint Vincent, she went on to complete her MSN.