In the past few years, coaching has been a topic of interest to individuals and organizations. It is considered a new professional field. Yet, it is growing rapidly due to its remarkable results in setting effective plans, achieving goals, and reaching desired outcomes.
With the growth of coaching, many international organizations were established to monitor and regulate the practice of coaching. Their main goal is to set the standards for professional coaching. Thus, if you are interested to become a professional coach, it is highly recommended that you obtain a coaching certificate under the umbrella of a recognized international organization.
Octarium is privileged to present coaching training programs that are accredited by one of the largest organizations in coaching, the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Thus, the coaches who graduate from Octarium follow the ICF code of ethics and implement the ICF core competencies in the coaching sessions.
Obtaining a coaching certificate from Octarium is the first step to become ICF coach. ICF offers three levels of credentials. They are:
Associate Certified Coach (ACC),
Professional Certified Coach (PCC),
Master Certified Coach (MCC)
In this article, I will focus on becoming an ACC coach. Yet, before presenting the information on becoming an ACC coach, I would like to share with you why Octarium chooses the ICF.
The ICF
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is one of the largest organizations in coaching. It has a large pool of credential coaches around the globe. The ICF standards are based on continuing learning. An ICF coach is required to expand his/her knowledge and skills in coaching. That is, after obtaining ICF credentials, coaches are encouraged to continue their learning through attending courses and conducting coaching sessions in order to maintain their credentials. This is to ensure that coaches are continually growing and developing.
The ICF developed eleven core competencies to support the understanding and professional practice of coaching. The coaching sessions are evaluated based on these eleven competencies. Each competency is a step towards partnering with the client to raise awareness, be responsible, and take actions to achieve desired outcomes.
Moreover, the ICF is keen to develop the coaching as a profession. This includes sponsoring and supporting research projects and other activities that allow further understanding and better implementation. For example, ICF is currently supporting a research project on one of its core competencies “coach presence.” This research project is led by an ICF MCC coach and sponsored by Harvard University. Octarium is honored to be part of this significant research that aim to provide vital information and statistical data to enhance the coaching practice.
ICF Member & ICF Credentials
There is a difference between ICF membership and ICF credentials. Membership is available to anyone who is interested to learn about coaching. There are many benefits of becoming a member such as having access to resources in the field of coaching. In addition, the ICF member is connected to international coaches, learning opportunities, and events.
Obtaining ICF credentials is different. To become ICF coach, first you have to ensure that you are serious about pursuing a coaching career. This is because it takes time, effort, and money to become ICF coach. Obtaining ICF credentials is a path that ensures gaining knowledge and experience to become a professional coach with high international standards.
ICF Credentials Path
As mentioned, this path is for coaches who are serious about their coaching career. They are willing to learn and work to maintain a high standard. It demands hard work, commitment, and financial payments. Yet, the outcome is great. Coaches are recognized in an international platform through the ICF. They will be part of a large community and may have the chance to meet and learn from prominent coaches. They will be informed about international coaching seminars and conferences. They are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and develop. This will lead to enhancement in their coaching practice that will flourish their coaching career.
Associate Certified Coach
Before approaching the ICF for any credential approval, you need to complete certain requirements. The section below contains the steps to become ACC coach:
Octarium Coaching Course Level I (35 training hours)
Practice: complete 20 hours of coaching sessions (pre-requisite for Level II)
Octarium Coaching Course Level II (40 training hours)
ACC Application & Requirements
Requirements
Prices
Octarium Training Courses:
ACC Certificate:
Conclusion
The coaching is a profession that is booming internationally. It is a way to create positive change within the individuals and society. Thus, the demand for coaches is increasing and, therefore, it is crucial that you distinguish yourself from others. One-step towards that is being recognized by an international organization such as the International Coaching Federation, ICF. This will allow you the opportunity to learn and develop as a coach. It also indicates that you are a coach at high level of standards and professionalism.
For more information about coaching or how to become ICF coach, please visit the ICF website https://coachfederation.org/ or contact Octarium.
