Best Nature Coach Certification Programs

Last updated on February 13, 2024

In a rapidly changing world where the pressures of modern life can be overwhelming, the need for nature coaching has never been more apparent. Nature coaching is an emerging field that harnesses the healing potential of nature to improve individuals’ well-being. 

Training and certification in nature coaching can be pivotal on the road to coaching proficiency and building a strong reputation in this niche practice, which is why ​​most coaches choose to pursue certification. In this article, we’ll delve into the best nature coach certification programs available and what makes them unique.

• Natural Wellness Academy – Best Overall
• Earth-Based Institute – Best for ICF-Accredited Certification
• Institute for Nature-Centered Coaching – Best for a Hybrid Learning Format

What Is a Nature Coach?

A nature coach guides individuals in connecting with nature to enhance their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Nature coaches help their clients develop a deeper and more meaningful relationship with the natural world by providing support for personal growth, stress reduction, and overall health improvement. 

Nature coaching may include outdoor activities, ecotherapy, mindfulness in nature, and other approaches that leverage the healing and transformative qualities of the natural environment.

How To Become a Nature Coach

The field of nature coaching and the coaching industry in general offer flexibility since there are no regulations. You can begin coaching with no education or certification, but becoming a certified nature coach is still a recommended step. 

Certification can provide you with a recognized credential and shape your coaching niche. This can be highly relevant in your marketing efforts and in attracting clients. The training will also give you access to valuable resources and tools used by nature coaching experts.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Nature Coaching Certification

How can you pinpoint the best certification for you? Of course, the curriculum and topics covered will  influence your decision, but other factors like cost, duration, and accreditation also matter. 

Program Cost

The financial aspect of a training program is always a critical consideration—especially when the difference in pricing is great. Life coaching program prices range widely, from under $100 to over $10,000. If you want to simplify your decision-making process, set a budget that you feel comfortable with and look for programs that match it.

Course Length

Some certification programs in this niche can be completed in a few months, while others may take a year or more. If you don’t have over a year to invest in training, you can instantly narrow down your choice to shorter programs. For more flexibility, consider self-paced options, where you can finish the course and get certified at your own speed.

Accreditation

Accreditation brings recognition and trust, but it’s optional. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is widely regarded as the gold standard in the coaching industry. However, in distinct fields like nature coaching, programs can decide not to pursue accreditation due to their unique and unconventional nature, which might not align with strict accrediting rules. 

Best Nature Coach Certifications

Top Pick: Natural Wellness Academy

With Natural Wellness Academy and its Nature Therapy Certification, you can learn at your own pace, dive into naturalism, spirituality, and the science of nature therapy, and receive a wealth of useful resources at a reasonable price. That’s why NWA is our top pick.  

The program comprises six modules that strike a balance between naturalism, spirituality, and practical skills. This unique blend equips you to design and lead safe, uplifting nature experiences for your clients. Throughout the program, you’ll engage in small projects that reinforce your understanding of key concepts.

Another benefit of the program is developing coaching skills, such as trail leadership and interpretation, and learning about business basics. 

• Course Length: Self-paced (up to 12 months)
• Program Cost: $1,295
• Accreditation: AADP
• Mode of Delivery: Online

ICF-Accredited Option: Earth-Based Institute

The Nature-Connected Coaching℠ (NCC) certification program is the core program at the Earth-Based Institute that comes with unique nature immersion practices and mentorship. The program is approved by the ICF for over 315 hours of coach training.

The training helps you develop crucial coaching skills and uncover the neuroscience behind NCC so you can leverage it in your sessions. With advanced tools and guidance from experienced instructors, you’ll be well-prepared to start your coaching business. The course is delivered online, but there are required face-to-face intensives that you must attend to get certified. All of this is covered in Phase 1 of the program.

In Phase 2, you can obtain the ICF credential through the mentor coaching program, receive support for business growth via 1-on-1 and group business coaching, and retake intensives for free.

There is a second level of certification, Transformational Wilderness Guiding, that is available to NCC graduates. 

• Course Length: 24 months
• Program Cost: Available upon request
• Accreditation: ICF
• Mode of Delivery: Online

Hybrid Learning Format Option: Institute for Nature-Centered Coaching 

The Institute for Nature-Centered Coaching delves into nature coaching within the framework of PECSS Coaching™. The course provides a flexible, multifaceted approach to learning as it features weekly on-demand video and audio lessons, live classes hosted by master teachers and instructors, practice coaching groups, and an optional in-person 2-day immersion.

The syllabus starts with foundational tools and evolves into advanced modalities for addressing physical, emotional, conscious, subconscious, and spiritual aspects of coaching. Topics include intuitive gifts, energy realignment, thought work, ancestral clearing, and more.

• Course Length: 11 months
• Program Cost: $9,999
• Accreditation: None
• Mode of Delivery: Online

Alternatives (non-niche)

In addition to nature coaching, general life coach training can also be beneficial to coaches who want to engage in both personal and professional development. Our top selection for comprehensive ICF-accredited certification is Coach Training Alliance. This course will prepare you for success in the coaching industry while enhancing your coaching capabilities. Refer to our in-depth review to find out more. 

Since nature coaching certifications can be on the pricier side, if you’re not ready to commit to one of the programs above, you can work on improving your skillset with mindfulness coaching techniques or spiritual coaching methods through the budget-friendly Transformation Academy. With our links, you can get an 50% discount. 

FAQs

• How much does a nature coach make?

A nature coach’s salary aligns with the salary range of a life coach’s salary and spans from $62,500 to $245,000 per year.

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

Certification isn’t mandatory, but obtaining a nature coach certification can enhance your skills, credibility, and employability in the field.

• How much does a nature coach certification cost?

The cost of nature coach certification programs varies greatly, from $1,000 to over $10,000. It depends on the program’s length, content, and the institution offering it.

• Does accreditation matter in a nature coach certification program?

The value of accreditation is that it can add credibility to your certification.

• What is the most recognized coaching certification? 

With numerous life coaching certifications available, it can be challenging to distinguish among them. This is why accreditation plays a vital role in ensuring recognition. Accreditation from globally renowned organizations like ICF establishes a strong reputation for these certifications and makes them widely acknowledged.

Conclusion

Revealing to others the healing powers of nature and being their guide in this transformational discovery can be a fulfilling profession. Certification programs can help you reach that goal and achieve financial freedom by allowing you to pursue your passions and beliefs. While some certifications are on the pricier side, our top choice, the Natural Wellness Academy, provides robust training and reputable certification at a fair price. 

Nature coaching is only one of numerous coaching specialties. If you want to explore other avenues and learn more about life coach training, programs such as Coach Training Alliance and Transformation Academy can help you understand the details of the life coaching profession.

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