ICF Associate Certified Coach Credential Explained
Coaching is not just a profession; it’s a calling. As a life coach, your mission is to guide individuals towards personal and professional growth. To excel in this role and gain the recognition you deserve, you might have considered obtaining the ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential.
ICF ACC Credential
The ICF ACC credential is more than just a title; it’s a testament to your coaching expertise and commitment to the highest industry standards. It signifies that you’ve successfully met the rigorous requirements set by the International Coach Federation, a globally recognized authority in coaching.
ACC Coach Training: The Foundation of Your Journey
ACC Coach Training, often referred to as ICF Level 1, is the first step in your journey towards ACC credentialing. This comprehensive training program equips you with the fundamental coaching skills and knowledge necessary to excel in your coaching practice.
But what exactly is ICF Level 1 Training?
ICF Level 1, or ACC Coach Training, is designed to provide you with a solid foundation in coaching. During this training, you’ll delve into the core principles and competencies that underpin effective coaching. These competencies include active listening, powerful questioning, and creating awareness, among others.
Completing ICF Level 1 is a prerequisite for obtaining the ACC credential. It ensures that you’re well-versed in the fundamental skills required for successful coaching engagements.
10-hour Mentor Coaching for for ACC: Nurturing Your Growth
One of the crucial components of ACC Training is the 10-hour Mentor Coaching requirement. Mentor Coaching is an invaluable experience that supports your development as a coach.
During these 10 hours, you’ll work closely with an experienced mentor coach. They’ll provide constructive feedback on your coaching sessions, helping you refine your skills and align them with the ICF Core Competencies. This mentorship is an essential step in preparing for the ACC credentialing process.
ICF ACC Requirements: Meeting the Standards
To earn your ACC credential, you must meet specific ICF ACC Requirements. These requirements are designed to ensure that ACC coaches possess the necessary skills and knowledge to provide effective coaching services.
ICF ACC Requirements include:
Completion of an ICF-accredited coach training program (ICF Level 1 Training) OR, if using the Portfolio Path, 60 hours of ICF-accredited coach training.
A minimum of 100 hours of coaching experience, with at least 75 hours of paid coaching.
Completion of the 10-hour Mentor Coaching requirement. (included in Level 1 program)
Submission of one recorded coaching session for assessment. (included in Level 1 program)
Successful submission of the ACC Application.
Passing grade on the ICF Credentialing Exam.
ICF ACC Application: Your Key to Credentialing
The ACC Application is your gateway to earning the credential. It involves documenting your coaching experience, mentor coaching hours, and submitting a recorded coaching session that showcases your coaching skills in action.
Once your application is accepted and you pass the ICF credentialing exam, you’ll become an ACC coach—a significant milestone in your coaching career.
ACC Renewal: Sustaining Excellence
Earning your ACC credential is a remarkable achievement, but it’s essential to maintain this status through ACC Renewal. Every three years, ACC coaches must demonstrate their commitment to ongoing professional development and adherence to ICF standards.
Renewal involves accruing 40 hours of continuing education, ensuring that ACC coaches remain at the forefront of the coaching profession.
The Benefits of Becoming an ICF Associate Certified Coach
Obtaining your ACC credential offers numerous benefits:
Credibility: The ACC credential demonstrates your commitment to coaching excellence, instilling trust in potential clients.
Competitive Edge: ACC coaches stand out in the coaching industry, often attracting more clients and career opportunities
Personal Growth: ACC Training and the credentialing process leads to significant personal and professional growth.
Global Recognition: The ICF ACC credential is recognized worldwide, opening doors to coaching opportunities on a global scale.
Community: As an ACC coach, you become part of a global community of coaching professionals, fostering connections and opportunities for collaboration.
Find ACC Coach Training that works for you!
Head to the ICF’s website https://coachingfederation.org/credentials-and-standards/find-education to explore ACC Coach Training programs that align with ICF ACC Requirements.
