Nurse Coach and Holistic Nurse Board Certification Eligibility
Who can enroll and what prerequisites (if any) apply.
Overview
Many nurses explore INCA programs as part of a longer-term goal to pursue professional board certification. This article explains how INCA programs commonly fit into certification pathways and how to determine which program may be appropriate for your goals. Successful completion of the INCCP meets all continuing education and coaching requirements to sit for AHNCC Board Certification exams as a Nurse Coach AND as a Holistic Nurse. Understanding Board Certification Board certification is a professional credential awarded by an independent certifying body. Eligibility criteria, application review, and certification decisions are determined solely by that certifying organization. Educational providers, including INCA, do not grant certification and cannot guarantee eligibility. INCA’s Role in Certification Pathways INCA is an accredited provider of continuing nursing education and offers educational certificates and ANCC contact hours for eligible learners. Some INCA programs are commonly used by nurses as part of a broader preparation pathway when pursuing board certification. How an INCA program applies depends on: The certification you are pursuing Your licensure and professional background The certifying body’s current eligibility requirements Integrative Nurse Coach® Certificate Program (INCCP) The Integrative Nurse Coach® Certificate Program (INCCP) is INCA’s flagship program and the most commonly completed INCA program by nurses pursuing nurse coach board certification. INCCP includes: A comprehensive nurse coaching framework Faculty-led instruction and peer learning Practicum experiences and supervised coaching hours Structured progression through multiple program levels Because certification requirements vary, completion of INCCP alone does not automatically confer certification eligibility. However, it is often used as a foundational educational component when nurses pursue board certification. Specialty Programs and Certification INCA’s self-paced specialty programs provide focused education in specific areas of integrative nursing and coaching-informed practice. Specialty programs: May support continuing education or professional development goals Are often taken in addition to, rather than instead of, a comprehensive coaching program Do not replace the core education typically required for nurse coach board certification Nurses pursuing certification often complete specialty programs to deepen skills or complement foundational training. Important Considerations Certification eligibility is determined by the certifying body, not INCA Requirements may change over time Additional education, practice hours, supervision, or examinations may be required Prospective applicants are responsible for reviewing current certification criteria directly with the certifying organization. Where to Find Authoritative Information For detailed, up-to-date information about nurse coach board certification pathways, eligibility, and requirements, visit: Board Certification Information Talk With Admissions If you are exploring board certification and want help determining which INCA program aligns best with your goals, Admissions is happy to help. INCA Admissions Specialists are board-certified nurse coaches and INCCP alumni who can help you think through program selection and sequencing. Create an Admissions support ticket Book a call with an Admissions Specialist Related Articles Certificate vs Certification: What’s the Difference? INCA Program Accreditation Who Is Eligible for INCA Programs?