NBHWC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield NBHWC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. The concept of 'meaning and purpose' as a dimension of wellbeing is most directly reflected in which component of the PERMA model? → Meaning (M)
2. Which statement best reflects the appropriate role of positive psychology in NBHWC health and wellness coaching? → It is integrated as one of several evidence-based approaches to support client flourishing
3. Which model of wellbeing, developed by Martin Seligman, is commonly applied in health and wellness coaching? → The PERMA Model
4. Within Martin Seligman's PERMA model of well-being, which element specifically refers to having a sense of belonging, support, and connection with other people? → Relationships
5. The VIA Classification of Character Strengths identifies how many core character strengths? → 24
6. A coach noticing that a client consistently uses pessimistic explanatory styles might introduce which positive psychology intervention? → Disputation techniques from learned optimism to challenge negative explanations
7. Psychological capital (PsyCap) in coaching includes which four core components? → Hope, efficacy, resilience, and optimism
8. Which of the following best explains nonmaleficence as it relates to ethics in coaching? → Do no harm
9. The body's physiological response to chronic, long-term stress is primarily mediated by the sustained elevation of which hormone? → Cortisol
10. If a health coach owns their own business and contracts with a third party to host their clients health information on their server, the coach must ensure that: → All of the above
11. In positive psychology, 'flow' is best described as: → An optimal state of complete absorption and engagement in an activity
12. According to foundational dietary principles, which macronutrient's primary function is to serve as the body's most readily available source of energy? → Carbohydrates
13. Which of the following is a foundational belief for establishing the rapport and coaching presence described by the NBHWC? → The client is whole, resourceful, and the expert on their own life.
14. A wellness coach uses a strengths-based approach primarily to: → Help clients leverage their existing positive qualities to achieve goals
15. Which of the following is recommended by my plate as part of healthy diet? → Limiting trans and saturated fats
16. When a coach helps a client reframe a setback as a learning opportunity, this technique aligns with which positive psychology concept? → Post-traumatic growth
17. When using the decisional balance tool, which of the following will most likely lead to change talk? → Describing the benefits of making a change
18. A wellness coach using appreciative inquiry primarily aims to: → Identify what is working well and build on those positive elements
19. The concept of 'self-compassion' in wellness coaching involves: → Treating oneself with kindness and understanding during times of difficulty
20. When integrating positive psychology into coaching, how should a coach handle a client's negative emotions? → Acknowledge and validate negative emotions while exploring pathways to wellbeing
21. What is the main purpose of familiarizing yourself with your client's health risk assessment? → To provide empathy, trust and greater understanding of their present life
22. Which of the following client statements is the strongest example of 'change talk'? → "I'm going to pack my gym clothes tonight so I can go to the gym before work tomorrow."
23. Gratitude practices in health and wellness coaching are supported by research showing they: → Increase positive emotions and life satisfaction over time
24. The primary ethical reason for a health coach to strictly adhere to their scope of practice is to: → Ensure client safety and prevent potential harm from unqualified advice.
25. Which of the following is the best example of a behavioral goal, as opposed to an outcome goal? → Bringing a healthy lunch to work four days a week.
26. A coach is creating a written coaching agreement. According to the NBHWC Code of Ethics, which element MUST be included? → The nature and limits of confidentiality.
27. A health coach MUST disclose a client or patient's protected health information in which of the following scenarios? → When the client or patient asks for it
28. According to positive psychology, which of the following represents a character strength rather than a skill? → Honesty and integrity
29. In positive psychology, the 'hedonic' dimension of wellbeing focuses on: → Experiencing pleasure and the absence of pain
30. Which emotion regulation concept involves accepting negative emotions without judgment rather than suppressing them? → Mindful acceptance