By Brenda DeCroo, MBA
Are coaches required to be certified?
That’s a good question, and one that will surely generate a lot of discussion. The straightforward answer is “No, there is presently no requirement that a person be certified to practice as a coach.” However, there is an expectation that this may change. As the coaching profession continues to mature and expand throughout the world, and as clients become more knowledgeable and demanding of the results they expect from a coach, there will likely be more regulation of the profession.
Is certification important to me as a client?
Among the important factors you will probably wish to consider when hiring a coach are:
° What is the coach’s background, including education and training, coaching and other professional experience, and certifications?
° How well does the coach’s specialty area match my needs and goals?
° Is this a person with whom I can form an effective and rewarding partnership?
Knowing that your coach is certified by a respected credentialing agency is a good way to ensure that your coach has been trained in the skills necessary to provide insightful coaching, continues to learn and develop coaching skills, is endorsed by fellow coaches, and follows a code of ethics.
What types of certifications are available for coaches?
There are varied types of certifications available for coaches. Probably the most widely known coach certification is through the International Coach Federation (ICF). The ICF has three levels of credentials available based on number of coaching hours – 100 hours for the first level (Associate Certified Coach), 750 hours for the second level (Professional Certified Coach), and 2,500 hours for the highest level (Master Certified Coach). All ICF certified coach levels require substantial coach-specific training and continuing education hours every three years in order to continue development of coaching knowledge and skills. For more details on the different ICF certification levels, visit http://www.coachfederation.org/getcredentialed/
A Board Certified Coach (BCC) credential has recently become available from the Center for Credentialing and Education (CCE). Similar to the ICF certification, CCE credentialing provides a means to certify that a coach has receieved proper training, coaching experience, and continuing education. For more details on the BCC credential, visit http://www.cce-global.org/BCC
Both the ICF and CCE coach certifications require adherence to a code of ethics and endorsement by experienced coaches.
Other certifications are available through different training organizations and for specific coaching specialties. A meaningful credential will include high-quality coach-specific training, significant coaching experience, validation of coaching skills by experienced coaches, and adherence to a code of ethics.
Brenda DeCroo spent over 20 years in corporate finance helping companies all over the world measure and improve their financial results. Now, as a Profit Coach, Brenda works with entrepreneurs and business owners who want to master their finances, increase profits, and focus on what matters most. A graduate of the Duquesne University Professional Coaching Certification program, Brenda is passionate about working with motivated clients to achieve success and abundance in all aspects of their life. Brenda lives in Sarver, Pennsylvania, loves to spend time with family and friends, cook, travel, cruise, stay fit, and enjoy life. Brenda has been an active member of a women’s spirituality group for ten years. To learn more, visit www.brendadecroocoaching.com