ICF Accredited Coach Training
ICF does not provide coach-specific training and as the accrediting body, we cannot recommend any specific training programs. However, some training organizations are affiliated with the ICF and offer accredited Coach Training Programs. Our main recommendation is to take enough time to evaluate training organizations. Ask yourself and school representatives: How will this training support my personal development as a Coach? What competencies are developed in a training program? What methods are taught?
Coaches are trained to listen, observe, and customize their approach to individual client needs. They seek to elicit solutions and strategies from the client; they believe the client is naturally creative and resourceful. The coach's job is to provide support to enhance the skills, resources, and creativity the client already has.
If you are new to the coaching profession, the International Coach Federation recommends researching and undertaking coach specific training as part of your development towards becoming a professional coach.
Current list of ICF Approved Coach Training Programs:
Program Type Definitions
To ensure quality training, ICF accredits or approves coach-training programs that meet its high standards. ICF offers three types of program approval.
Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP)
An ICF Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP) is considered an all-inclusive coach training program. An ACTP includes a minimum of 125 hours of coach-specific training, including comprehensive instruction around the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics and the ICF definition of coaching. This type of program also includes Mentor Coaching, observed coaching sessions and a comprehensive final exam that evaluates a student's coaching competency.
Approved Coach Specific Training Hours (ACSTH)
An ICF Approved Coach Specific Training Hours (ACSTH) program is considered an a la carte coach training program. An ACSTH program includes a minimum of 30 hours of coach-specific training, including instruction around the ICF Core Competencies, and observed coaching sessions.
Continuing Coach Education (CCE)
A Continuing Coach Education (CCE) program is intended for coaches who already have ICF Credentials or who have completed basic coach training. A CCE program may include advanced coach training that directly relates to or expands upon the ICF Core Competencies, and/or training in skills that contribute to the professional development of a coach (e.g. personal development, coaching assessments or tools, business building, or other material that falls outside of the ICF Core Competencies.)
Source: Program Type Definitions