Sometimes the question is raised as to whether training is necessary to becoming a coach. Technically and legally, you can call yourself with no training. Even my dog can call herself a coach. The more important question is whether that is ethical and moral.
Think about it this way: How willing are you to engage a therapist, counselor, financial advisor, accountant, attorney, or any other professional if they have no training and no accountability to a Code of Ethics?
Similarly, how willing are you and how much are will you pay to hire a coach with whom you will share much personal information if they have no training?
Just as with any other profession, becoming a coach involves completing coach approved training and ideally also includes earning a credential with the International Coaching Federation. Here is what they require:
The paths to the ACC and PCC credentials with the Center for Coaching Certification are depicted here:
Coach training is designed to build on your existing experience and skills with specific application of the coaching competencies in a coaching relationship. Offering quality coach training on the ICF’s Core Competencies of a Coach, the Center for Coaching Certification (CCC) is the only ICF-approved program accredited by IACET to offer CEUs. CCC provides professional support with a robust suite of tools, post-graduate opportunities and support, and free continuing education.
