By Liv Syptak, MCS Admissions Coach and Faculty Member
As Admissions Coach for the Mindfulness Coaching School, prospective students will often ask me, “which certification should I go for?” What a great question!
More and more I’m encouraging student coaches to begin the MCS program with their sights set on attaining the PCC certification. It may seem like the ACC is a necessary first step to reach the PCC level, but in reality, a motivated new coach can leapfrog right over the ACC and secure a PCC certification.
As Professional Certified Coach you are instantly set apart in the coaching market. Think of the difference between someone with bachelor’s degree and someone with a graduate degree. The former has done focused study, achieved an important level of knowledge and proficiency in a specialty area, and brings all of that to bear on her or his work. The latter has gone deeper. As a master’s level degree holder, she or he committed to deeper learning and practice, and has therefore gained a level of expertise beyond the minimum.
I have recently been sharing with folks that I wish I had jumped to the PCC certification when I was first trained. In my impatience to “get it done” I opted to certify as an ACC. Sure I coached many clients and had great success as an ACC, but when it came time to renew my certification I felt doing so as an ACC was not being true to my ability, experience, and success. I wanted to show that I am a coach that engages beyond the minimum.
Returning to school to get the additional coursework hours was great (as refreshing our skills always is!) but it also disrupted my rhythm a bit. I often found myself reflecting…If only I had certified initially as a PCC those six years ago…
The PCC credential adds a level of legitimacy and credibility. It signifies completion of study and practice beyond the minimum. It is a mark of commitment, of performance, and of capability.
And it’s attainable! We have many MCS alumni who have demonstrated their commitment to their practice and have proudly graduated as PCC coaches.
Reach out to me directly if you want to talk through your path to the PCC. I’d be glad to share more of my observed and personal experiences with the benefits and beauty that exists beyond the minimum.
Completely agree….
This is my third challenge in my coaching career and I consider me as a “beginner”… ..
Life is a great opportunity to learn and enjoy…
MCS an excellent school with brilliant trainers….
And PCC is an “obbligation” if you love coaching…