Top Motivational Coach Certification Programs

Last updated on August 1, 2024

Are you good at igniting motivation and self-improvement in others? Do people often turn to you for a motivational boost and guidance when they need support? If you possess these innate qualities, you might just have the potential to thrive as a motivational coach.

However, becoming a skilled motivational life coach entails more than just being a good motivator and advisor. Many professionals in this field choose to pursue motivational coach certification to enhance and validate their expertise.

In this guide, we’ll explore what it means to become a certified motivational coach and share some top certification options.

• Udemy – Best for GRCMC Motivation Coaching
• Center for Progressive Recovery – Best for Progressive Motivation Coaching
• Somatic Coaching Academy – Best for Somatic Approach to Motivational Coaching
• Transformation Academy – Best for Different Methodologies Applied in Motivational Coaching

What Is a Motivational Coach?

Motivational coaching is a niche within the broader realm of life coaching. A motivational coach’s specialty is inspiring and guiding clients to discover and harness their inner motivation, overcome obstacles, set and achieve goals, and lead a more fulfilling and successful life.

What does a motivational coach do? Motivational coaches tailor their approach to each client’s unique needs and circumstances, but in general, their responsibilities include: 

• Evaluating clients’ current motivation levels and identifying areas that need improvement
• Assisting clients in identifying and overcoming obstacles, fears, and self-limiting beliefs 
• Developing action plans and strategies to help clients take concrete steps toward their goals
• Providing positive feedback and reinforcement to boost confidence and self-esteem
• Giving emotional support during challenging times and helping clients manage stress and setbacks
• Guiding clients through self-reflection, self-discovery, and personal growth
• Fostering a positive mindset and outlook on life
• Celebrating milestones and successes 

How To Become a Motivational Life Coach

The coaching industry doesn’t require formal qualifications to start a practice, so you’re essentially ready to begin. But then, why do most coaches still choose to pursue certification?

Certification adds credibility to your career and assures clients of your competence and expertise. It also offers a straightforward educational path toward proficiency in this coaching field. 

To get certified as a motivational coach, consider enrolling in a specialized and reputable course. This type of program will train you in applying motivational coaching principles and techniques as well as instruct you on how to approach clients to achieve the best results.

Overall, as a certified motivational coach, you’ll enhance your credibility and increase your appeal to potential clients who want a coach with proven expertise. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Motivational Coach Training

There are lots of different motivational coach training courses, so choosing the right one for you is crucial. To find your way through the maze of options, keep in mind the following factors. 

Program Cost

Life coaching programs can come with a higher price tag, but there are also cost-effective training options that still deliver comprehensive training. Pursuing online motivation coach certification gives you access to a broader range of possibilities and eliminates the need for travel expenses.

Course Length

The duration of these programs can range from a few weeks to a year, which allows you to select a course that meets your specific goals within your preferred time frame. Many courses are self-paced for added flexibility, as some professionals who enroll in these courses work full-time or are already working with coaching clients. It’s important to note that some self-paced programs have associated deadlines, so it’s advisable to carefully review enrollment details.

Accreditation

Although obtaining an accredited motivational coach certification isn’t obligatory, it can grant your coaching program recognition and validation. Accreditation serves as an endorsement by a reputable accrediting body, such as the International Coaching Federation (ICF), which is well-respected within the coaching industry. However, it’s worth mentioning that credible non-accredited programs also exist. 

If you want to enhance your certification with an ICF credential, you can design your own certification path by supplementing niche certification as a motivational coach with ICF-accredited life coaching certification. Our top pick for a life coaching program with ICF accreditation is Coach Training Alliance, which you can learn more about in our review. 

Best Motivational Certifications

GRCMC Motivation Coaching Option: Udemy 

Motivation Coaching Certification in GRCMC Motivation Coaching is created by Get Results Coach Academy and is available on Udemy for a reasonable price. The program centers on the proprietary “Get Results Motivation Coaching (GRCMC) System,” which allows you to introduce a unique method into your motivational coaching practice. 

The training is concise but informative as it delves into all the essential aspects of motivation coaching, such as client enrollment, running coaching sessions, and achieving results. This program will equip you with a proven framework to assess and address clients’ underlying obstacles and enhance their ability to create positive change. 

• Course Length: Self-paced
• Program Cost: $94.99
• Accreditation: None
• Mode of Delivery: Online

Progressive Motivation Coaching Option: Center for Progressive Recovery (CPR)

The Progressive Motivation Coach Training (PMCT) program by CPR specializes in addressing motivation issues in recovery coaching. If you are a recovery coach or want to narrow down your specialty to this area, consider this comprehensive certification option.

The program incorporates evidence-based motivational change strategies, including Instant Influence™, which will earn you a certification as an Instant Influence™ Trainer in addition to PMCT certification. The course comprises lessons on various coaching strategies, motivational interviewing, and ethical guidelines for motivational coaches.

To earn the PMCT certificate, you need to go through pre-recorded video lectures, complete assignments, and take part in virtual calls. There is also the option without certification which eliminates the live calls.

• Course Length: Self-paced
• Program Cost: Available upon request
• Accreditation: None
• Mode of Delivery: Online

Somatic Approach to Motivational Coaching Option: Somatic Coaching Academy

The Somatic Coaching Certification program is a holistic training that integrates motivational coaching, mindfulness, neuroscience, and more. The program comprises two levels, the Cross Mapping Method and Sensation-Based Motivation. If you want to take your training beyond motivation coaching, this is your opportunity. You can opt for Level 1, Level 2, or the combo; however, Level 1 is a prerequisite for Level 2. 

The Cross Mapping Method is a sensation reframing tool used to eliminate physical pain and emotional suffering. Through level one, you will be trained on how to motivate individuals who resist change. The Sensation-Based Motivation Coach training program integrates various fields like mindfulness, energy medicine, and neuroscience. Besides engaging in lessons and self-study, you’ll get private mentor calls and bonus business training. 

• Course Length: 3 months online training–Level 1; 9 months (including 3-day in-person retreat)–Level 2
• Program Cost: $2,997–Level 1; $11,997–Level 2; $13,994—both levels
• Accreditation: ICF
• Mode of Delivery: Online or in-person

Learn Different Methodologies Option: Transformation Academy

The Master Life Coach Certification Program is a bundle of four courses designed for coaches who want to build their skills from the ground up. The program brings together four niche certifications that will equip you with diversified coaching techniques that you can leverage in motivational coaching.

The included certifications are:

• Professional Life Coach Certification
• Life Purpose Coach Certification
• Happiness Coach Certification
• Goal Success Coach Certification

One of the main advantages of this comprehensive program is that it comes with done-for-you coaching packages, premade coaching materials (templates, questionnaires, and coaching agreements), a free listing in the Transformation Academy coach directory, and business training. 

• Course Length: Self-paced
• Program Cost: $497
• Accreditation: CPD
• Mode of Delivery: Online

Special Offer: Get 50% off all certification programs at Transformation Academy by clicking our link or entering code LIFECOACHMAG at checkout.

FAQs

• How much does a motivational coach make?

The annual motivational coach salary in the US is $82,727, according to Glassdoor.

• Do you need a certification to be a motivational coach?

Certification isn’t mandatory, but the majority of coaches choose to become certified to enhance their credibility and expertise. However, it ultimately depends on your personal goals and the expectations of your clients.

• How much does a motivational coach certification cost?

The cost of a motivational coach certification program can also vary significantly. Prices may range from less than a hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. 

• Does accreditation matter in a motivational coach certification program?

Accreditation can be an important consideration, but it’s not mandatory. Accredited programs may offer certain benefits, such as recognition within the coaching industry, but there are reputable non-accredited programs as well. 

• What is the most recognized coaching certification? 

Among the sea of coaching certification programs, it’s a challenge for both coaches and clients to navigate and assess each one thoroughly. That’s why recognition often hinges more on accreditation than certification itself. Certifications from well-regarded programs with ICF and CPD accreditations are reliable choices for those seeking recognition. 

Conclusion

Certification programs like Udemy, Somatic Coaching Academy, Transformation Academy, and PMCT  are your opportunity to learn the proven techniques in motivational coaching, gain insights into proprietary techniques in this field, and boost your confidence in coaching. You’ll have the chance to learn from industry experts, gain practical experience, and share insights with peers. This wealth of knowledge, coupled with a structured learning environment, is the ideal foundation for a thriving motivational coaching practice. Even though not all of these programs are accredited, they can be paired with other pathways to reputable ICF accreditation, such as life coaching programs like Coach Training Alliance.

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