PCC
Professional Certified Coach
Advance Your Coaching Practice
The PCC credential marks a major step in your coaching career. It reflects advanced coaching skill, substantial experience, and ongoing investment in professional growth.
Requirements
- Complete a minimum of 125 hours of coach-specific training from ICF-accredited programs
- Log 500 hours of coaching experience with at least 25 clients (450 hours must be paid)
- Receive 10 hours of mentor coaching over at least 3 months
- Submit two performance evaluation recordings and pass the ICF Credentialing Exam
- Demonstrate mastery of ICF Core Competencies at the PCC level
- Maintain active coaching practice
Your Journey to PCC
Advance Your Training
VariesComplete additional coach-specific training to reach 125 total hours
Tips for Success
- →Choose advanced training in your coaching niche or methodology
- →Seek training that addresses your growth edges
- →Consider specialized certifications that complement coaching
- →Engage in peer learning communities and coaching circles
Deepen Your Practice
VariesAccumulate 500 total coaching hours with at least 25 clients
Tips for Success
- →Develop a sustainable coaching practice or business
- →Work with long-term clients to develop deeper coaching relationships
- →Track your competency development using Mentor Coaching AI
- →Experiment with different coaching approaches and techniques
- →Build a referral network and testimonial portfolio
Engage in Continuous Development
VariesComplete additional mentor coaching and professional development
Tips for Success
- →Seek mentor coaching focused on advanced competencies
- →Attend ICF conferences and chapter events
- →Participate in supervision or peer coaching groups
- →Read current research on coaching effectiveness
- →Use AI-powered analysis to identify subtle patterns in your coaching
Demonstrate PCC-Level Competency
VariesSubmit recorded sessions and pass comprehensive assessment
Tips for Success
- →Record multiple sessions and choose your best work
- →Review ICF PCC markers thoroughly before selecting sessions
- →Get feedback from a mentor coach on your selected recordings
- →Prepare for the exam by studying updated Core Competencies
- →Use Mentor Coaching AI to ensure your sessions demonstrate PCC-level markers
Benefits of PCC
Expert Tips
Don't rush the journey from ACC to PCC—depth matters more than speed
Use every coaching session as a learning opportunity
Use Mentor Coaching AI's detailed competency analysis to track your growth
Develop expertise in a specific coaching niche or industry
Build a strong professional brand as you approach PCC
Create systems for continuous learning and reflection
Seek challenging clients who will push your development
Document your coaching philosophy and methodology
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to go from ACC to PCC?
Timelines vary widely based on your training schedule and how quickly you accrue coaching hours.
Can I apply directly for PCC without getting ACC first?
Yes! If you meet all PCC requirements, you can apply directly for PCC. Many coaches skip ACC and go straight to PCC if they have sufficient training and coaching hours.
What's the difference between ACC and PCC competency levels?
PCC-level coaching demonstrates greater depth, nuance, and sophistication. PCCs show advanced mastery of Core Competencies, stronger intuition, more powerful questioning, and ability to work with complex client situations.
What's the PCC renewal process?
Renewal requirements can change, so verify the latest CCE and renewal rules directly with ICF.
How does Mentor Coaching AI help with PCC preparation?
Mentor Coaching AI provides granular analysis of PCC-level competency markers, helping you identify exactly where your coaching needs refinement. It's like having a mentor coach available after every session, accelerating your development toward PCC mastery.
Sources
Ready to Pursue Your PCC Credential?
Mentor Coaching AI's advanced analysis helps you master PCC-level competencies faster by providing detailed feedback on every coaching session.
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