Here are some thoughts on coaching certification programs with Christian values. First, we will look at finding certified Christian coaching programs. Then, we will look at how you can add your own Christian values to a “religion-neutral” certified coaching program. Finally, we will talk a little bit about coaching Christians.

Finding Certified Christian Coaching Programs

Is it me or does it also bother the hell out of you that the people in the pictures on the sites that come up when you Google “Christian anything” are all smiling so damn hard? I digress. To find coaching certification programs with Christian values, Google “certified Christian coaching programs.” I got 101 million matches, so there are a lot of them out there. When it comes to selecting one, here is my advice: look for a program that has been around for a while and has successful graduates and successful clients of those graduates. Also make sure that they are science-based (FYI there is no conflict between rigorous science and authentic Christianity). This is particularly important when vetting programs that present themselves as coaching certification programs with Christian values. Then make sure that there is a lot of coaching and being coached built into the program.

Making “Religion-Neutral” Programs Christian

Actually this is easy: just show up. Then reflect your values in everything that you do. But don’t be an uninformed, lazy or chicken Christian. If you do bring your authentic Christian values to your coaching, be ready for people to say how wonderful you are, and how much they admire you. That’s right. No fooling. Wonderful. As for selecting a program, follow the advice given above.

The toughest Part of Implementing Coaching Certification Programs with Christian Values

The toughest part of implementing coaching certification programs with Christian values is coaching Christians. That is because many Christians are damaged goods, people who have suffered from experiences with highly manipulative, inauthentic “Christians.” These poor people are often riddled with guilt, and are truly in need of the message of Love and Acceptance that are at the heart of Christianity. Lookout for this and be prepared. Unfortunately, there are many who really need your coaching based on genuine Christian values.

Hope you took some great value out of this post today! I’d love to hear your feedback, so make sure you leave a comment with your thoughts or questions. And also, you can click on the Twitter button below to retweet this article…Thank you!

Dave Iuppa
JTS Advisors Strategy and Accountability Coach