Online courses may be available through specific coaching organizations, such as the International Coach Federation[1] X Research source , or through current programs offered by practicing life coaches. To get recommendations on the right training modules for you, find a current life coach that you respect and ask them, “What resources did you use to get your start with this career?” Training modules provided or accredited by the ICF are generally coupled with a small number of mentorship hours for new life coaches to receive their credentials. There are many training modules available outside of the ICF, but these may require more mentorship hours to complete your certification.
Many distance learning courses are offered as degree or certificate programs through community colleges and universities. Such courses may allow you to learn online, or attend on campus if there is a program near you. Distance learning courses often offer certificates in life coaching or degrees in a related field, such as psychology, with a concentration in life coaching. Getting a degree does not necessarily mean you have your credentials, though, nor are such degrees required for getting your credentials. [2] X Research source Some distance learning courses may also help you reach a certain number of client contact hours, which will be required to receive your coaching credentials.
Workshops offer some unique opportunities to learn about specific specializations while in training. For example, coaches specialized in faith-based coaching, coaching for different age groups, or transformation-based coaching may offer workshops on how to break into that particular niche. [3] X Research source
Reach out to local life coaches via email or over the phone and say, “I am looking to get my credentials as a life coach. Are you taking on any mentees at this time?” Independent organizations such as the ICF or the Coach Training Alliance[4] X Research source may also be able to place you in contact with mentors suited to your specific needs. A mentor may also be able to help you work toward the client contact hours needed for your credentials by allowing you to work with them in parts of their practice.
Associate Certified Coach (ACC). This credential requires 60 hours of coach training, and 100 hours of client contact. Professional Certified Coach (PCC). This credential requires 130 hours of coach training, and 750 hours of client contact hours. Master Certified Coach (MCC). This credential requires 200 hours of coach training, 2,500 hours of client contact hours, and 10 hours of work with a qualified mentor.
Work with your mentor to get recommendations for potential clients. Ask them, “If you meet with a new client but cannot take them on, would you provide them with my information?” Many training programs will provide you with information on how to begin the client contact process.
A coaching log will be necessary to get your credentials. Keep a thorough log of your coaching activities in order to apply for your credentials. Samples of coaching logs may be found online from resources posted through other life coaches, or you may opt to use an app or software such as Life Coach Office[5] X Research source to keep a comprehensive digital log. All client contact hours must have occurred less than 18 months prior to the day you apply for your credentials. If you are interested in furthering your credentials in the near future, keep recording these contact hours even after you receive your first set of credentials.
If you have any questions about the materials required for your credentials, or if you are not sure if your training program meets the ICF requirements, contact their offices directly to ask for assistance.
Depending upon your coaching credentials path, you may take the exam at a different point during your application review. The exam is offered in a number of languages including English, Spanish, French, Chinese, and others. Check to see if the exam is available in your native language.
Areas of specialization can include business coaching, career coaching, time management, health and wellness coaching or academic coaching. No additional training is required to specialize. Instead,develop your business by offering your skills to a niche group that is looking for coaching, such as businesses or those in relationships. [6] X Research source
Specialization courses are often from for-profit programs and are generally not affiliated with the ICF.
Try to continue working with clients from when you were accruing your client contact hours, as well. Keep attending workshops and continuing education courses during your coaching career to learn about new practices and keep your coaching skills sharp.
