ICF requires that the 10 hours of mentor coaching be completed over at least 3 months. This extended timeframe allows you to receive feedback, practice, integrate the learning, and demonstrate growth—which is exactly what the credentialing process is designed to assess.

Mentor coaching focuses specifically on developing your coaching skills in alignment with the ICF Core Competencies, primarily through feedback on observed sessions. Coaching supervision takes a broader view, exploring the emotional complexities, ethical decisions, and systemic aspects of your coaching practice. We offer mentor coaching.

It depends. While ICF Level 1 and Level 2 accredited programs are required to include mentor coaching, many charge it as an additional fee rather than including it in the base tuition, so check with your provider to understand what's actually covered.

Even if your program does include mentor coaching, there's real value in working with a mentor coach outside your training program. Getting a fresh perspective on your coaching can reveal blind spots and growth opportunities that might not surface when you're being evaluated by the same people who trained you. An outside mentor coach brings different experiences, observations, and feedback that can help you truly elevate your skills rather than simply check a box.

Beyond initial credentialing, you'll need mentor coaching again to renew your ACC—an additional 10 hours over at least three months. And if you're pursuing your credential through the Portfolio Path (without completing a Level 1 or Level 2 program), mentor coaching is a separate requirement you'll need to fulfill independently.

Many coaches also seek additional mentor coaching hours beyond the minimum, whether to feel more confident before their performance evaluation, to work through specific challenges in their coaching, or simply to continue growing. Keep in mind that the 10-hour requirement is a floor, not a ceiling.

Let's talk! In our discovery call, we can review your training hours, coaching experience, and goals to determine which credential makes sense for where you are in your journey. Many coaches start with ACC and progress to PCC over time. However, depending on your education, experience, and hours, you can go directly for your PCC.

While mentor coaching focuses on the practical demonstration of coaching skills, deepening your understanding of the competencies through our work together will absolutely support your exam preparation. I can also point you to excellent exam prep resources.