The Moment of Realization

Do you ever find yourself thinking, “I think I might want to do this… become a coach”?

You’ve been helping people informally. People naturally come to you for your guidance and perspective. And you’re beginning to wonder if this could be something more, something official. Something you could do professionally.

What Is a Board Certified Coach?

The Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE) offers professional credentials across several helping fields, including the Board Certified Coach (BCC).

Earning the BCC credential provides:

• A recognized credential
• A clear professional standard
• A structured pathway into coaching

Why People Choose Coaching

For many, coaching isn’t just something they want to do. It reflects who they already are.

Many coaches:

• Feel drawn to help others grow
• Want more meaningful, purpose-driven work
• Are looking for greater flexibility or a career shift
• Are already in helping professions (counselors, educators, leaders)

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Board Certified Coach

Step 1: Decide to Explore Coaching as a Profession

Step 2: Choose a Training program that Aligns with You

Step 3: Complete an BCC-approved training program

To pursue the BCC credential, your training must meet the requirements set by the Center for Credentialing & Education.  (You can view approved programs here.)

When the CCE first invited organizations to apply as inaugural training providers in 2010, I chose to be part of that process. The Academy of Choice was approved in 2011 and has been training coaches ever since. (Learn more about the Academy of Choice)

Step 4: Complete Coaching Hours

Before applying for certification, you’ll complete 30 hours coaching. This gives you real-world experience and helps you build both skill and confidence.

Step 5: Submit Your Application and Reference

The application includes:

• Documentation of your training
• Verification of your coaching hours
• A professional reference

Step 6: Pass the BCCE Exam

The Board Certified Coach Exam (BCCE) is a competency-based exam that reflects your training and practical experience in the field.

What Makes a Strong Coach

Coaching is not about giving advice. It’s not to “fix” their client or their clients’ lives.

A great coach has the ability to:

1. Ask powerful coaching questions
2. Help clients gain awareness
3. Support client’s ownership of the solutions to their challenges and aspirations

How Coaching Is Different from Helping

When someone needs help, they often turn to friends or family. That kind of support can be valuable, but it doesn’t require specific training. 

Coaching is different. Rather than stepping in or taking over, a coach facilitates thinking. Through skilled, intentional questions, coaches help clients access their own clarity and direction.

A coach operates from the belief that the client already has, or can develop, the answers they need.   

A Thoughtful Path Forward

If you’re considering coaching, you don’t have to have it all figured out.

You just need:

• Curiosity
• A willingness to explore
• Openness to learning

About the Academy of Choice

The Academy of Choice has been a BCC-approved program since 2011.

We offer:

• Live, interactive Zoom cohorts (twice per year)
• A fully asynchronous, self-paced option to join anytime

Both formats are designed for busy professionals and focused on real-world application.

Academy of Choice.   

Reflection

What’s drawing you toward this work? And what might it look and feel like to take the next step?