Last updated on February 8, 2024
Ontological coaching is a growing field, making it a promising career choice for coaching professionals who are drawn to this niche. If you want to step into the ontological coaching field with a trustworthy credential, the best solution is to earn an ontological coaching certification.
If you’ve already decided to get certified, the next big question is which program to choose. You don’t need to face that big decision alone, as we’ll help you refine your options with the best certifications for aspiring ontological coaches.
- Ontological Coaching Institute – Best Overall
- Newfield Network – Best for Beginners
- Advanced Coaching Practicum – Best Introductory Course
- Transformation Academy – Best Budget Option
Table of Contents
What Is an Ontological Coach?
Ontological coaching is based on the idea that changes in an individual’s way of being can lead to transformation and success in various aspects of life, work, and relationships. Therefore, an ontological coach helps clients discover, understand, and shape how they perceive and interact with the world with a focus on their way of being, thinking, and feeling.
During coaching sessions, ontological coaches support clients while they share and observe their perspectives, assumptions, and emotions about the world around them. The goal is to assist clients in transforming their perspectives and behaviors so they can achieve their desired goals and better quality of life.
How To Become an Ontological Coach
Ontological coaching isn’t conditioned by any formal education, so you may wonder why you need to invest time and money in a certification. The answer is simple—to gain proof of your expertise.
Since there are no regulations, anyone can present themselves as a coach without any credentials. If you earn a reputable certification in ontological coaching, you’ll gain a competitive advantage.
But increased marketability isn’t the only benefit. Coaching programs will introduce you to proven practices in this field and ensure you have all the tools and skills necessary to guide clients through transformation in the best possible way.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Ontological Coaching Certification
Here are a couple of factors that can simplify your decision about which program is best suited for you.
Program Cost
Certifications demand an investment, but the amount depends on your budget. Since ontological coaching is an emerging field, there aren’t many options, but there are still budget-friendly alternatives if you’re seeking affordable courses.
Course Length
A certification program can be demanding time-wise. You can expect to immerse yourself in learning for months. Another relevant aspect that influences the length of the course is the format. If the program consists of live lessons, you will need to attend scheduled classes. However, for those whose obligations don’t allow for time constraints, you can opt for self-paced courses and progress at your own pace.
Accreditation
If you want to make sure that the program’s curriculum has been evaluated by a third party, prioritize accredited courses. The most well-known accrediting body is the International Coaching Federation (ICF), and ICF-accredited certification can bring you wider recognition. You don’t need to obtain this credential through an ontological coaching program. An alternative is acquiring it from a life coaching program that holds this accreditation, such as Coach Training Alliance (CTA). CTA can provide you with so much more than the shiny ICF certificate since it also focuses on equipping you with tools for marketing and growing your business. You can find out all about CTA and its life coach training program in this in-depth review.
Best Ontological Coach Certifications
Top Pick: Ontological Coaching Institute
The Certified Ontological Coaching & Leadership Program from the Ontological Coaching Institute takes the top place on the list as it is a robust, progressive, and immersive course accredited by ICF. It merges self-directed learning, live sessions, peer work, and mentorship, so you’ll engage in different learning formats for maximum results.
The program encompasses three levels:
- The Linguistic Basis of Ontological Coaching
- Emotional Learning and Ontological Coaching
- The Professional Practice of Ontological Coaching
You can choose whether you’ll only enroll in Level 1 or go through the entire educational process. Level 1 focuses on a new understanding of language in everyday interactions and coaching. Moving to level 2, you’ll engage in emotional learning and the significance of emotional competence in ontological coaching. In the final level, the program integrates and builds upon the prior learnings and focuses on the role of the body in coaching and applying an ontological framework in professional practice as a coach.
- Course Length: 6 months – Level 1 only; 18 months – Levels 1-3
- Program Cost: $9,200 – Level 1 only; $15,000 – Levels 1-3
- Accreditation: ICF
- Mode of Delivery: Online
Beginner Option: Newfield Network
The Coaching for Personal & Professional Mastery program by Newfield Network is a comprehensive 9-month course also accredited by the International Coach Federation. It incorporates a foundation course, ontological learning, coach training, and applying ontological distinctions and coaching competencies.
The syllabus covers various essential topics for reaching proficiency in both coaching and ontological coaching. Some of the concepts you’ll learn about are the theory of the observer, learning to learn, and the art of ontological coaching.
- Course Length: 9 months
- Program Cost: $11,400
- Accreditation: ICF
- Mode of Delivery: Online
Introductory Course Option: Advanced Coaching Practicum
If you want to learn more about ontology, we recommend the Foundations of Ontological Learning course. It will only take 18 hours of your time, so it’s the perfect pick for those who are still on the fence about whether or not to dedicate themselves to this niche.
The course is divided into 9 virtual classes, each lasting 2 hours. The instructors will explain what ontological coaching refers to, what are ontological models, and delve into the three main domains of ontological coaching.
- Course Length: 18 hours (across 9 weeks)
- Program Cost: $795
- Accreditation: ICF
- Mode of Delivery: Online
Budget Option: Transformation Academy
Ontological coaching certifications are on the pricier side, so if you are not ready to make such a big investment, Transformation Academy is the ideal alternative. This reputable coaching academy provides dozens of niche certifications at affordable prices.
They don’t have an ontological coaching certification, but there are other courses that can help you develop valuable skills for this niche, such as Transformation Coach Certification. One of the many reasons behind the TA’s popularity is that their courses include ready-made coaching materials that simplify session preparations.
Read our TA review to find out more about Transformation Academy and why they are one of the leading coaching programs.
- Course Length: Self-paced
- Program Cost: $197 (Get 50% off using our link. Discount applied at checkout.)
- Accreditation: CPD
- Mode of Delivery: Online
FAQs
- How much does an ontological coach make?
Certified life coaches, including ontological coaches, can earn anywhere from $62,500 to $245,000 per year.
- Do you need a certification to be an ontological coach?
Certification isn’t mandatory for launching an ontological coaching business, but obtaining one can enhance your credibility and expertise in the field. Such programs provide structured training and validate your understanding of ontological coaching principles.
- How much does an ontological coach certification cost?
The cost of an ontological coach certification varies based on the institution issuing the certification and what the program entails. Prices range from $700 to $15,000.
- Does accreditation matter in an ontological coach certification program?
Accreditation matters in terms of providing you and your clients the assurance that the curriculum and training meet specific quality standards.
- What is the most recognized coaching certification?
Accreditation is the main factor in determining a certification’s recognition. Ontological coaching certifications from programs accredited by reputable bodies like the ICF are globally recognized.
Conclusion
If you want to do meaningful work and help people change their outlook on life, a career as an ontological coach can allow you to make a tangible difference. However, building trust in people and convincing them to choose you as their guide isn’t easy. That’s why earning an ontological coaching certification is such an important step.
To enhance your life coaching skills or explore different paths in this industry, you can consider programs like Coach Training Alliance and Transformation Academy that can broaden your life coaching skills.
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