How to become a coach

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So You Want to Become an ICF ACC Coach? Here’s How to Get Started

First of all—I’m so excited for you. If you’re here, it means you’re thinking seriously about becoming a certified coach, and I can tell you from experience: it’s one of the most rewarding paths you can take. Whether you’re looking to switch careers, deepen your work with people, or just finally step into your purpose, getting your ICF ACC credential is a powerful place to start.

Let me break it down for you, step by step—no fluff, just the real deal.

Step 1: Get Your 60-Hour Coaching Certification

This is your foundation. Before you can officially apply for an ICF credential, you need to complete a 60-hour training program through an ICF-accredited provider.

My personal recommendation? Coach Training Alliance


It’s where I got my coaching credentials and I’ve sent a lot of people their way and here’s why:

  • They’re affordable (like, surprisingly reasonable compared to some programs out there).

  • They’re practical and down-to-earth—you won’t be drowning in theory. You’ll actually start coaching right away with real people.

  • Their program checks all the ICF boxes, so you’ll be perfectly set up for your next step.

Honestly, it’s a fantastic place to begin. You’ll walk away with not just knowledge, but confidence.

Step 2: Get Your ICF ACC Credential

Okay, this is where things get real. The ACC (Associate Certified Coach) is your first official ICF credential, and it’s the key that opens doors to working with amazing companies like BetterUp, Lyra, Spring Health, and more.

Here’s what you’ll need to complete:

10 Hours of Mentor Coaching

This part is gold. You’ll work with an experienced coach (someone who already holds an ICF credential) who will support you, challenge you, and help you grow into your unique coaching voice. It’s kind of like having a coach for your coaching.

100 Hours of Coaching Experience

Yep, you’ll need to log 100 hours of actual coaching with real clients (at least 75 of those hours need to be paid). If that number feels big right now, don’t worry—most of us start slow and build over time. You’ve got this.

One Recorded Coaching Session

You’ll submit one recorded session with a client (plus a written transcript) so the ICF can hear your coaching in action. It might sound intimidating, but by the time you get here, you’ll be more than ready.

Take the ICF Credentialing Exam

This is a multiple-choice test covering the ICF Core Competencies and Ethics. It’s the final hurdle—and a great way to solidify everything you’ve learned.

Step 4: Choosing your Niche! Your Niche Will Evolve, and That’s Perfect

Now, I know the idea of “finding your niche” can feel like this big, intimidating thing. You might be thinking, “Do I need to have my niche figured out right now?” And the short answer is: No, you don’t.

Here’s the beautiful thing about coaching: Your niche will naturally emerge over time, as you work with different clients and discover what you’re most passionate about. The first couple of years as a coach are about exploration, trying different things, and learning where you feel most energized and effective.

Don’t rush the process. Just be yourself, show up for your clients, and pay attention to what lights you up. Maybe you’ll find you’re passionate about executive coaching, or maybe you’ll gravitate toward wellness coaching for those navigating burnout. Or perhaps, you'll be drawn to life transitions—helping people navigate big shifts like career changes or personal growth.

Your niche will find you. And it’s completely okay to let that happen organically. If you feel unsure, that’s normal. You’re learning, growing, and doing amazing things along the way.

The Bottom Line

Here’s the thing: It’s going to feel uncomfortable.

Learning anything new is uncomfortable. When you first start coaching, you’ll likely feel out of your depth at times, second-guess yourself, and wonder if you’re doing it right. That’s normal. And yes, you’re going to pay for your coach training and ICF certification. It’s an investment—both financially and in your time and energy. But I can tell you, it’s worth it.

I know this from personal experience. When I first started this journey, I had doubts, I was nervous, and honestly, the learning curve was steep. But looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. The investment—financial and emotional—paved the way to a career that’s not only fulfilling but also sustainable. The ICF credential gave me credibility and opened doors that would have been closed otherwise.

You will feel like you’re walking through the unknown for a while, and there will be moments when you wonder if you’re cut out for this. That’s part of the process. Push through, keep showing up, and remember why you started. I promise, the discomfort will pass, and on the other side of it is a life and career you love.

You’re On the Path to Something Incredible

Look, the road won’t always be smooth, but this is your journey, and it’s worth it. The skills you develop as a coach, the confidence you gain, and the impact you’ll make in the lives of your clients—there’s nothing like it.

So, take that next step. Even when it feels hard, even when you have doubts, keep going. The discomfort will give way to growth. You’ll find your niche. Your confidence will build. And at the end of it, you’ll be living a life of purpose, doing work that fills you up and supports others in ways you never imagined.

I’m here for you. I’ve walked this path, and I can promise you—you’ve got this. This is just the beginning of an amazing adventure. And I can’t wait to see where it takes you.

Let’s do this!

Step 3: Then What? (Here's Where It Gets Real)

Okay, friend, now is where it gets exciting. Once you’ve got that ACC in your hands, the doors open up to some really awesome opportunities. You’re no longer just a “new coach”—you’re a certified, legit coach, and that’s a big deal. But let’s break it down so it doesn’t feel too overwhelming.

You know all those big coaching platforms that seem like a dream to work with? The ones that hire coaches like you and pay well, and give you steady clients? Yep, you can work with them now. And here’s where I get really excited for you because these companies are looking for coaches just like you. I’ve seen coaches come through the process and land roles with them, and it’s honestly life-changing.

Here are the ones you’ll want to know about:

  1. BetterUp – Okay, this one’s huge. BetterUp coaches some of the biggest names in the business world, from employees at huge tech companies to leadership development. It’s a great spot if you love helping people step into leadership or grow in their careers. They really want coaches with an ICF credential, and the best part? You don’t need to hustle for clients. They give you steady work and support, and they love coaches with a genuine passion for growth. (If you want in here, you’ve got to have your ACC. But guess what? You will.)

  2. Lyra Health – If mental wellness coaching is where your heart is, Lyra is your jam. They focus on emotional well-being in a workplace context, helping employees thrive and not just survive. You get to make a realdifference here. And the good news is: They hire coaches with your credential, so once you have your ACC, you’ll have access to their client roster. They care deeply about finding the right fit for each client, and trust me—you’ll be able to make an impact.

  3. Spring Health – Very similar to Lyra, but their focus is broader, covering things like work-life balance, career transitions, and burnout prevention. These companies need coaches who understand the bigger picture of mental health—and with your ACC, you’ll be able to speak their language and connect with clients who need exactly what you offer.

  4. CoachHub – This one’s for you if you like the idea of working with professionals or executives. Think leadership coaching, corporate clients, and helping people navigate big career moves. CoachHub connects you to companies around the globe, and the best part? It’s all remote. They want experienced coaches who are passionate about leadership, and guess what? That ACC? It’s exactly what they want to see.

  5. Torch – If you love the idea of working with startups or leaders in fast-moving companies, this one’s for you. They’ve got a strong focus on emotional intelligence and leadership development. If you’re a coach who wants to help people grow into better leaders, this is a place where you can really spread your wings.

So, here’s the thing: you can totally do this. The world of coaching is out there waiting for you to step in. And I’m telling you, once you have that ICF ACC, it’s like you’ve got the key to a VIP club. There’s real, steady work available, with real companies that will pay you to do what you love. No more wondering if you’re “qualified enough.” No more hesitating. It’s your time.

And hey, if you ever need help deciding which platform feels like the best fit for you, or you want to chat through your options, just let me know. I’m here to help you every step of the way—cheering you on like the coach I am.

You’ve got this. And you’re going to crush it.

Leveling up is Optional: And as Your Niche Develops, So Will Your Opportunity for Higher Credentials

As you build your practice, gain more experience, and find your specific sweet spot in the coaching world, you’ll want to keep growing. That’s where the next stages of ICF certification come in—PCC and MCC. Here's how the journey naturally evolves:

  • ICF PCC (Professional Certified Coach):
    This one’s a step up from the ACC. It requires more coaching hours (around 500) and deeper coaching competency. By the time you reach this level, you’ll have a clearer sense of your niche and how you work best with clients. The PCC credential opens the door to more advanced coaching opportunities and higher-paying roles with clients who are looking for highly skilled professionals.

  • ICF MCC (Master Certified Coach):
    The ultimate level. You won’t be there overnight, but once you hit this stage, you’ll be a true expert in your field. The MCC credential shows that you’re deeply experienced, and your niche will be a key part of your expertise at this level. Whether you're working with leaders, creatives, or high-achieving individuals, the MCC lets people know you’ve truly mastered the craft of coaching. And at this point, you’ll have the wisdom and experience to confidently own your niche.

Coach training tuition discount

Sometimes we alumni get access to discount codes. Shoot me an email sarah@thewell-beingcollective.com and I may be able to send you a discount code for $700 off!