How to Become and EMCC Accredited Coach
The European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC) offers a respected accreditation process for coaches, mentors, and supervisors. Becoming an EMCC certified or accredited coach involves a series of steps that ensure you meet the high standards set by the organisation. Here are the steps you would need to follow:
1. Choose the Level of Accreditation
EMCC offers different levels of accreditation depending on your experience and qualifications:
- Foundation (EIA Foundation): For those just starting their coaching or mentoring journey.
- Practitioner (EIA Practitioner): For those with some experience who can demonstrate the application of their coaching skills.
- Senior Practitioner (EIA Senior Practitioner): For those with significant experience and a deep understanding of coaching or mentoring.
- Master Practitioner (EIA Master Practitioner): For those at the highest level of expertise, often contributing to the profession through research or thought leadership.
Decide which level aligns with your current experience and career goals.
2. Complete an EMCC-Accredited Training Program
- Enrol in a coaching or mentoring program that is accredited by EMCC. This will ensure the training you receive meets EMCC's standards and is recognised when you apply for accreditation.
- The training should cover the core competencies and ethical standards expected by EMCC.
3. Gain Coaching or Mentoring Experience
- Accumulate the required coaching or mentoring hours corresponding to your desired level of accreditation:
- Foundation Level: Typically requires around 20 hours.
- Practitioner Level: Requires around 100 hours.
- Senior Practitioner Level: Requires around 250 hours.
- Master Practitioner Level: Requires around 500 hours.
- These hours should be with multiple clients and well-documented.
4. Reflective Practice and Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
- Engage in reflective practice, which involves critically reflecting on your coaching or mentoring sessions, your development as a coach, and the impact on your clients.
- Participate in continuous professional development activities, such as workshops, webinars, or additional training, to enhance your skills and knowledge.
- Keep a log of your reflective practice and CPD activities, as this will be required for your application.
5. Get Coaching Supervision
- Supervision is a key requirement for EMCC accreditation. You need to work with a qualified supervisor who can help you reflect on your practice, offer feedback, and support your development.
- The amount of supervision required varies by accreditation level but generally includes several hours per year.
6. Prepare Your Portfolio
- The application for EMCC accreditation involves submitting a detailed portfolio that demonstrates your experience, reflective practice, supervision, and CPD.
- The portfolio typically includes:
- A detailed log of your coaching or mentoring hours.
- Evidence of your training and CPD activities.
- Reflective statements on your practice and learning.
- A record of your supervision sessions.
7. Submit Your Application
- Once your portfolio is complete, you can submit it to the EMCC for assessment.
- The submission process is done through the EMCC website, where you’ll find specific guidelines and requirements for each level of accreditation.
- You will need to pay an application fee, which varies depending on the level of accreditation you’re applying for.
8. Undergo Assessment
- After submission, your portfolio will be assessed by experienced EMCC assessors.
- You might be required to participate in an interview or provide additional evidence if requested.
- If your application meets the criteria, you will be awarded your accreditation.
9. Maintain Your Accreditation
- EMCC accreditation is valid for a certain period, usually three years.
- To maintain your accreditation, you need to continue engaging in CPD, supervision, and reflective practice, and submit evidence of these activities for renewal.
Additional Considerations:
- Join EMCC Chapters: Becoming involved in local or regional EMCC chapters can provide networking opportunities and additional resources.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with changes in accreditation requirements or new professional standards introduced by EMCC.
By following these steps, you can achieve EMCC accreditation, which is a mark of excellence and professionalism in the coaching and mentoring fields.