What is Life Coach Training Like?

What is Life Coach Training Like?

Life coaching is a relatively new field, and at this time, there are few regulations in place. Because of this, just about anyone who wants to be a life coach can do so at their own discretion. Some use the experience they've had in a previous career as the basis for their life coaching ability; others may take trainings, classes or seminars to become a life coach in a specified field.

Life coach training can be formal or informal, stringent or casual. Life coach training can be offered online, at a school/institute, or one on one from another coach. Life coach training is often comprised of some or all of the following elements:
• Teleclasses/teleseminars
• Self-study assignments
• Mentor coaching
• Required reading
• Face-to-face intensives
• Weekend workshops
• Peer coaching/peer groups
• Niche specialty programs
• Certification exams
• Practice development training

The length of a life coach training program can vary from about 30 hours to 320 for higher levels of certification. Again, it is entirely up to the discretion of the would-be coach as to how much training they choose to take -- or if they seek out any formal training at all. While credentials and certifications are seen by some clients as a selling point and factor heavily into whether or not they choose to work with a coach, for others, experience, testimonials and track record are the bigger factors.

Regardless of whether a coach chooses formal training or not, results are the bottom line. If a coach builds a strong enough reputation through results and word of mouth, no additional training is needed. If, however, a would-be coach is unsure of their abilities and wishes to build skills and confidence, life coach training is an excellent idea for them.