Coaching Certification Programs

Jumpstart your coaching career and make a difference in the lives of tweens, teens, and young adults as a youth coach. We offer full professional training and certification paths accredited by the International Coaching Federation and the Center for Credentialing and Education.

We’ve had the pleasure of training youth coaches for:

Certified Youth Well-being Coach
36 hours - $1,350 (Package includes: Courses 1-3)

Courses 1-3 | Virtual | Live Certification Course

*Courses are available as a package or for individual enrollment

Please input the preferred schedule date in the note during checkout

Those interested in a monthly payment plan option can add the full package to the cart, click proceed to checkout, and select PayPal Pay Later for PayPal Credit

Course 1 of 9: Basic Coaching Skills and Adolescent Well-being Science

Self-study - Knowledge-based learning

The purpose of this program is to introduce youth-serving professionals, parents, and/or other caring adults to core coaching competencies and adolescent well-being science to support and empower tweens, teens, and emerging adults. 

Lessons 1-6 – 12 hours of asynchronous training with assigned reading 

Lessons 1-6 include, Introduction to Coaching, The Adolescent Stage of Development, Coaching Structure, Process, and Skills, Facilitating Engagement, Self-Discovery, & Effective Goals, Facilitating Effective Planning, Goals Striving, & Self-Management, Evoking Awareness & Promoting a Positive Identity 
Cost: $440 
Schedule: Ongoing enrollment 
Prerequisite for Practicum & Supervision Seminar 1 

Course 2 of 9: Practicum & Supervision Seminar 1

Live - Experiential learning

The purpose of this program is to engage trainees in experiential learning to apply core coaching competencies with peers for supervision and feedback. Facilitators and evaluators support trainees’ as they develop proficiency as coach practitioners toward the ICF ACC minimum skills requirements.

7 weekly 2-hour Zoom meetings = 14 hours of synchronous training with faculty and peers in a group forum (maximum of 20 per group) 
Cost $495 
Schedule: Winter 2025 
1 – 2/18-4/1/25, Tues AM 11-1 CT
2 – 2/18-4/1/25, Tues PM 5:30-7:30 PM
Registration deadline: 2/4/25

Course 3 of 9: Evidence-based Coaching Interventions 1

Self-study - Knowledge-based learning

Recommend taking Courses 2 & 3 together 
The purpose of this course is to train caring adults to apply evidence-based coaching grounded in psychology and neuroscience to enhance well-being and resilience in tweens, teens, and emerging adults. 

Lessons 7-11 – 10 hours of asynchronous training with assigned reading 

Lessons 7-11 include Coaching Self-care & Managing the Coaching Engagement, Identifying Stages of Change & Motivational Interviewing, Introduction to Acceptance & Commitment Coaching, Social Connection, SEL, & Health, Academic Coaching & Learning Science 
Cost: $415 
Schedule: Ongoing enrollment 

Certified Youth Resilience Coach
76 hours - $3,200 (Package includes: Courses 1-8)

Courses 4-8 | Virtual | Live Certification Course

The Certified Youth Resilience Coach program is accredited by the International Coaching Federation as a Level 1 provider for 76 coach specific education/training hours, including 10 mentor coaching hours. This program is also approved through the Center for Credentialing & Education for 60 training hours toward the BCC application.

*Courses are available as a package or for individual enrollment

Please input the preferred schedule date in the note during checkout

Those interested in a monthly payment plan option can add the full package to the cart, click proceed to checkout, and select PayPal Pay Later for PayPal Credit

Course 4 of 9: Practicum & Supervision Seminar 2

Live - Experiential learning

Courses 1-3 are prerequisites
Recommend taking course 4 & 5 together

The purpose of this program is to engage trainees in experiential learning to apply core coaching competencies with peers for supervision and feedback. Facilitators and evaluators support trainees’ as they develop proficiency as coach practitioners toward the ICF ACC minimum skills requirements. 

7 weekly 2-hour Zoom meetings = 14 hours of synchronous training with faculty and peers in a group forum (maximum of 20 per group) 
Cost: $495

Schedule: Fall 2024 
1- 10/31-12/19, Thurs AM 11-1 CT 
2- 10/31-12/19, Thurs PM 5:30-7:30 PM 
Registration deadline: 10/17/24

*Next run will be Spring 2025 (4/15-5/27) for trainees who complete the Winter 2025 Course 2.

Course 5 of 9: Evidence-based Coaching Interventions 2

Self-study - Knowledge-based learning

Can be taken with Practicum and Supervision Seminar 2 

The purpose of this course is to train caring adults to apply evidence-based coaching grounded in psychology and neuroscience to enhance well-being and resilience in tweens, teens, and emerging adults. 

Lessons 12-16 – 10 hours of asynchronous and synchronous learning with reading and practice client 

Lessons 12-16 include Well-being at Work, ADHD & Perfectionism, Desistance Coaching for Transitions Away from Crime or Delinquency, Introduction to Cognitive Behavioral Coaching, Parent Coaching 
Cost: $415 
Schedule: Ongoing enrollment 

Course 6 of 9: Mentor Coaching 1 (live)

Live 1:1 meetings with a mentor

Can be taken with Practicum 1 or 2

Trainees completing the ICF-accredited CYRC program are required to complete 10 hours of mentor coaching with a qualified mentor coach. Mentor coaching involves coaching and feedback in a collaborative, appreciative and dialogued process based on an observed or recorded coaching session to increase the coach’s capability in coaching, in alignment with the ICF Core Competencies. Seven of those 10 hours can be in a group setting and three of those hours must be in a 1:1 format. 

3 1:1 hours 
Cost: $300 
First hour must be by 12/6 to remain in compliance with ICF 3 month min to join the Jan MC group(s) 

Course 7 of 9: Business of Coaching

Self-study - Knowledge-based learning

Recommend taking course 7 & 8 together

The purpose of this course is to introduce coach practitioners to the various ways coaching is currently applied in professional domains; and provide an overview of how to get started with establishing and maintaining a private coaching client base. 

Lessons 17-20 – 6 hours of asynchronous and synchronous training with homework – practice client and other activities

Lessons 17-20 include Coaching Programs & Group Coaching Considerations, Business Building, Marketing & Relationship Building, and Ongoing Professional Development 
Cost: $190 
Schedule: Ongoing enrollment 

Course 8 of 9: Mentor Coaching 2 - Group

Live - Experiential learning

Trainees completing the ICF-accredited CYRC program are required to complete 10 hours of mentor coaching with a qualified mentor coach. Mentor coaching involves coaching and feedback in a collaborative, appreciative and dialogued process based on an observed or recorded coaching session to increase the coach’s capability in coaching, in alignment with the ICF Core Competencies. Seven of these hours may be taken in a group setting and three in a 1:1 format. 

7 group hours 
Cost: $450 
Schedule: Winter 2025 – bi-weekly 
1- 1/9-3/6, Thurs AM 11-1 CT 
2- 1/9-3/6, Thurs PM 5:30-7:30 PM 
Registration deadline: 12/26/24 

*Next run will be Summer 2025 (6/10-8/5) for trainees who complete the Spring 2025 Course 4.

Certified Youth Health Coach
91 hours (Courses 1-9)

Course 9 | Virtual | Live Certification Course

*Courses are available as a package or for individual enrollment

Please input the preferred schedule date in the note during checkout

Those interested in a monthly payment plan option can add the full package to the cart, click proceed to checkout, and select PayPal Pay Later for PayPal Credit

Course 9: Lifestyle Medicine for Adolescents

Self-study - Knowledge-based learning

This designation is only available to coaches who have completed our Certified Youth Resilience Coach program. CYRCs who complete our Lifestyle Medicine for Adolescents course earn the Certified Youth Health Coach designation. 

Our Certified Youth Health Coaches are equipped to support youth through identifying and engaging in behaviors that promote holistic health, well-being, and thriving. Learn to work with your clients to address specific health and wellness challenges or promote healthy lifestyle habits relating to nutrition, physical activity, sleep, sexual health, technology use, mindfulness, and mental health.

15 Hours Self-study
Cost: $495 
Schedule: Coming late Fall 2024

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allison reynolds
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I cannot say enough good things about this coaching program. As an MSW student who works directly with incarcerated youth, I found this program to be incredibly deep, meaningful, and professionally valuable. It added so many tools to my toolbox and truly equipped me with the skills I need to better coach, support, and empower the youth I work with. This program gave me a deeper understanding of resilience, personal growth, and how to help people recognize their own potential, especially those who have faced adversity. The material was powerful, practical, and immediately applicable to the work I do every day. What also makes this program stand out is that it not only teaches you how to become a stronger coach, but also how to grow your business and supports you in building the professional foundation needed to do this work well. That combination of skill-building, personal development, and business guidance makes it incredibly valuable. Honestly, this program felt like it was on the level of one of my graduate classes in terms of building my professional skill set. It was thoughtful, well-developed, and such an important class. I would recommend it not only to anyone working with emerging adults, but to anyone who wants to better understand, support, and help human beings of any age grow, heal, and build resilience. I highly recommend it. Also, Dr. Leah is AMAZING!
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Daniela Pacher
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I could not recommend YCI more! The program is extensive, thorough, professional, enjoyable and practical. The people are lovely, and the entire experience was worth every penny for those seeking input on their path to helping young people.
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Sara Rossi Raccagni
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I decided to train with YCI because it was the only one with a solid scientific basis, which I believe is crucial from an ethical perspective. I completed both the Youth Resilience Coach and Youth Health Coach programs. It was the best investment I could have made: the instructors are highly trained and do know how to create the ideal environment for continuous growth.
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Fabio Friscia
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I highly recommend the services of YCI to anyone interested in improving their skills to coach young people. Between the material and the classes, their offer is absolutely stellar! I am giving just 5 stars because giving a hundred is not possible!
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Shahnaz Bonadurer
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I am very glad that I had the chance to take the Youth Well-being course at the Youth Coaching Institute. Being part of this community, meeting like-minded people, engaging in peer coaching experiences, and having access to many great resources, tools, videos, and meaningful conversations made a real difference in my coaching journey.
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Leslie C. Newbold
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Dr. Leah Mazzoula’s course at the Youth Coaching Institute is truly exceptional. It’s clear how much care and expertise went into creating a program that’s science-based, evidence-backed, and incredibly supportive. I highly recommend it to anyone working with teens, parents, or anyone looking to grow as a coach and human being.
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Heather Mooney
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Incredibly grateful that I was strongly recommended to attend this program by another YCI alum (the amazing Cyndy Etler "the teen life coach"). After completing my coaching certificate I *totally* get why Cyndy insisted I attend YCI when I shared the intentions of becoming a coach! It's been instrumentally helpful in a multitude of ways and much more of a mindset shift than anticipated. All of the instruction, coaching practice and mentoring has been integral to my success as a coach. Appreciate the ongoing positive regard, growth mindset, and perpetual support for our continued coaching development as we navigate the various pathways for our careers.
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Robert McClellan
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I entered this program hopeful, but unsure of what to expect. It exceeded my expectations in so many ways. The training was thorough, supportive, and engaging. I feel equipped and eager to continue this important work! Highly recommend.
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Claire Gatonby
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I work extensively with the youth and found the YCI Youth Coaching course very insightful and valuable. The combination of theory and practical with tips on how to use this in meaningful interactions was highly beneficial. I would recommend this course.
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Kody Hersh
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I appreciated YCI's model of independent self-study combined with live classes for coaching practice and discussion. The content of the self-study materials has been really helpful for me as a youth professional in refreshing my knowledge of adolescent development, and learning how to use that knowledge to provide effective support as a coach. Program leaders are gifted and knowledgeable, and admin staff provided prompt and skilled support.

Have Questions? Schedule a Q&A With Us.

Whether you have some coaching experience under your belt, want to better serve youth in your profession, or are exploring a profitable and fulfilling career choice, we’re here to guide you on the best path forward. Fill out our contact form or schedule a live 20-minute Q&A to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

All training, supervision, and practicum are completed 100% virtually and available internationally via live Zoom webinar and/or telephone conference call.

Candidates must be 18 years old or older.

Our training programs are ideal for professionals working directly with tweens, teens, and/or emerging adults, professionals leading organizations serving these populations, or those who aim to serve this audience in some capacity.

Coaching is a helping profession focused on learning and growth. Thus, it is a wonderful skillset addition for those in or interested in a career path within helping professions or education (e.g., human resources, counseling, social work, human services, leadership, nursing, teaching, public health, etc.)

Trainees who complete our programs most often apply their skills in the following ways:

  • Coaching as a side gig for access to deep, meaningful work and extra income around a full-time job
  • Coaching as a professional career path
  • Adding coaching skills to enhance their work with tweens, teens, or young adults
  • Coaching in a volunteer or mentoring capacity

Trainees may opt to complete individual courses for continuing education hours or the series of courses required to earn a certification through YCI. We offer three certifications with each one building to the next.

Trainees who complete courses 1-3 earn our Certified Youth Well-being Coach designation. This option is generally a good fit for youth-serving professionals, such as teachers or caseworkers, who want to add coaching skills to enhance their current work.

Trainees who complete courses 1-8 earn our Certified Youth Resilience Coach designation. This is our ICF Level 1 accredited and CCE-approved coach training program. This option is generally a good fit for aspiring professional coaches, those in leadership roles over coaching staff, or those who would like to pursue a private coaching practice as a side gig or career pivot.

Trainees who complete courses 1-9 earn our Certified Youth Health Coach designation. This option is generally a good fit for professional coaches who support youth through mental or health and wellness organizations offering full continuum of care services.

Yes! You can earn your first certification and come back to complete additional courses for next level certifications when you’re ready. Just purchase each next course or set of courses as you’re ready.

Our Certified Youth Well-being Coach and Certified Youth Resilience Coach training programs have an 80% live attendance requirement.

All live classes are recorded so that those who have an allowed absence are able to watch the recording to submit a missed class makeup summary to earn credit.

If you were scheduled to coach the day of your absence, you would also need to complete a makeup practice coaching session outside of class.

Life happens! Your well-being is our priority. If you need to pause your training, you can transfer to a later cohort to complete your training up to one year from the date of your withdrawal from your current cohort.

Absolutely not. Your basic coaching skills are generally applicable to any coaching-appropriate audience – tweens, teens, and adults of all ages.

The behavioral science knowledge you’ll gain is also generally applicable. You are practicing coaching peer trainees who are adults of all ages with various backgrounds, experiences, and cultures during your in-class training. This means that you’re learning to coach adults of all ages through this program.

Because your training with us is approved by the International Coaching Federation, you also qualify to obtain a higher credential through the ICF upon successful completion with us. The ICF’s designations are general professional coaching designations accepted in most coaching-related roles.

Self-Study Courses: All tuition paid for self-study courses is non-refundable upon release of course access to the buyer.
Live Meeting Courses: Registrants can cancel or withdraw participation at any time within 14 days prior to the first scheduled live meeting date for their enrolled group for a full refund of paid tuition. Registrants can cancel within 7 days following the first live meeting date for the enrolled group for a 50% refund of paid tuition. If registrants cancel or withdraw from training more than 7 days following the first live meeting date for the enrolled group they are not entitled to any refund or any reductions in tuition owed, as they must cover the cost of the lost seat.

Just click the CYWC, CYRC, or CYHC Full Package button to add the full program of your choice to the cart. Be sure to note which of the live schedules you want for the live courses included in your package upon checkout.

We offer PayPal Credit for those who want to complete our full certification program, but need low monthly payments to make that affordable. To use that option, just add all courses for the full certification program to the cart, click proceed to checkout, and select the PayPal Pay Later option to see if you qualify. Also, keep in mind that our tuition rates are intentionally priced well below the market for comparable training to keep it accessible to public servants. The current market rate for a comparable ICF-accredited Level 1 program is $5,000-$14,000 USD.

Reach Out to Us to Learn More

Have questions or want to speak with a member of our team? Schedule a meeting or reach out to us directly, and we’ll be happy to assist you on your coaching journey.

Youth Coaching Expert Insights

Discover a library of free expert resources exploring the youth coaching landscape, the experiences of adolescents today, and opportunities to strengthen your approach. 

Elevate Your Impact and Start Coaching Today

Make a positive and measurable impact with the Youth Coaching Institute.  Develop your coaching skillset and begin the journey to becoming a certified youth life coach today.