Certified Coaches Alliance (CCA) – Everything You Need To Know

Last updated on February 20, 2024

If you’ve been exploring coaching credentials and accreditations, there’s a high probability that you’ve come across Certified Coaches Alliance (CCA). What is this organization, and how can it benefit your coaching career?

We have gathered all the essential details about the CCA in this comprehensive post. From their mission to the process of becoming a part of this esteemed institution, you’ll get the answers to all your burning questions about the inner workings and intricacies of this reputable organization.

What Is Certified Coaches Alliance?

Certified Coaches Alliance (CCA) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the coaching industry. It was founded in 2004, and now its credential is recognized as an indication of the highest degree of professionalism and excellence in coaching.

This organization provides certification and accreditation for coaches as an assurance of high standards of competence and ethics. Their affiliation of life coaches and executive coaches includes a wide network of professionals from 28 countries.

Certified Coaches Alliance Philosophy

CCA’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that the quality of an individual’s life is closely tied to their commitment to honoring their personal vision and goals. They emphasize that the extent to which one directs their focus toward their own aspirations directly influences their ability to manifest those aspirations. 

CCA recognizes the power of directed thought as a catalyst for creative expression, which leads to change, healing, inspiration, and harnessing energizing forces. With this philosophy at its core, CCA promotes the transformative potential of aligning personal vision, directed focus, and the power of thought in achieving desired outcomes and personal fulfillment.

Certified Coaches Alliance Accreditation

What does it mean when a life coach training program is recognized by the Certified Coach Alliance? This can give you the confidence that the program meets the rigorous criteria of this organization, as CCA has verified the program’s alignment with internationally accepted coaching standards and core competencies. 

To receive CCA recognition, coaching certification programs need to submit an application and undergo evaluation by the CCA Accreditation Advisory. Through this rigorous adjudication process, the CCA assesses the qualifications and merits of each program and verifies whether they meet the necessary criteria for accreditation. 

Certified Coaches Alliance Affiliation

CCA affiliation refers to the association or membership with the Certified Coaches Alliance. It is a professional affiliation that coaches can choose to join to enhance their credibility, access resources, and be part of a community of like-minded professionals. 

The membership is not mandatory for coaches, but it can be a valuable addition to their coaching certification. 

What Does Certified Coaches Alliance Offer to Its Members?

Certified Coaches Alliance (CCA) provides a range of benefits and resources to its members so they can thrive as professional coaches and expand their network. These benefits include:

• Certification and Credentials – CCA provides its members with recognized certifications, digital badges, and documentation that validate their coaching expertise and demonstrate their affiliation with CCA. 
• Professional Support and Networking – Members gain access to a supportive community of fellow coaches which includes opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. This fosters professional growth and allows for valuable connections within the coaching community.
• Continuing Education – They offer ongoing professional development opportunities, such as workshops, webinars, and training programs. The purpose is to help members expand their skills and stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in coaching.
• Resources and Tools – The organization is an information hub with a range of valuable resources, including coaching templates, tools, and frameworks. These resources can save time and enhance the effectiveness of coaching sessions.
• Professional and Character Referencing – CCA provides character referencing to its affiliated coaches free of charge. They make an effort to respond to any requests regarding the coach’s training or current standing with their registrar.
• Business Support – To help members set up and grow their coaching businesses, CCA offers business guidance. This may include marketing tips, business strategies, and access to business-related templates and materials.

How To Join Certified Coaches Alliance

Both aspiring coaches and experienced coaches can join the CCA affiliation. However, the process differs depending on whether you already have a coaching certification or have yet to obtain one. Let’s revise what are the prerequisites for becoming a CCA member.

For Aspiring Coaches

Before you apply for the affiliation, you need to complete coach training and earn a professional coach certification. You don’t necessarily need a CCA-approved coach certification, as CCA recognizes that there are various reputable coach training and certification programs available in the industry.

It is important to note that CCA may have certain criteria and standards that coach training programs should meet for their certifications to be considered eligible for CCA affiliation. If you are considering joining CCA affiliation and have a coach training certification from a non-CCA-approved program, you should prioritize accredited programs such as ICF-accredited Coach Training Alliance and CPD-accredited Transformation Academy.

After you obtain your credential, you can apply for a CCA affiliation by presenting your documentation. Coaches who graduate from the Certified Coach Practitioner Program (CCP) by the Life Coach Certification Group will receive one year of free affiliation membership with CCA. 

Otherwise, you can choose between the 2-year and 3-year renewal cycle or Enduring Certification, which requires no ongoing renewal application. 

For Professional Coaches

Coaches who have completed a coach certification training program can apply for immediate affiliation with CCA by submitting their certification documentation for review. 

Once their certification is approved, coaches have the option to apply for affiliation through either a 2-year or 3-year renewal cycle. Alternatively, they can choose the Enduring Certification option, which does not require any ongoing renewal process.

What Is the Cost of Joining Certified Coaches Alliance?

The cost of joining CCA affiliation can vary. The specific membership fees and pricing structure depend on various factors, such as the type of affiliation, duration of membership, and any current promotions or offers.

CCA provides information about their fees solely upon request. You need to contact their support team directly, and they’ll provide you with the current membership fees and any associated costs based on your specific circumstances and affiliation preferences.

Is Joining the Coach Coaches Alliance the Right Choice?

The coaching industry is quite flexible, so you can establish a thriving business without being affiliated with any organization. The decision to join the Certified Coaches Alliance (CCA) ultimately depends on your personal preferences and aspirations. While the benefits of becoming a CCA affiliate are certainly attractive, it is possible to launch and run a successful coaching business without their affiliation.

If you are considering joining the CCA and are seeking a reputable certification program, our top recommendations are Coach Training Alliance and Transformation Academy (find out why in our CTA and TA review). We also recommend exploring our list of the best life coach certification programs if you want more options.

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