How to choose a Coach that is right for you

If you’ve ever typed “life coach” into a search bar, you know how overwhelming it can be. With over 145,000 active coaches worldwide and millions of social media profiles claiming the title, how do you—someone seeking clarity—choose the one coach who can truly support your growth?

Here are a few guiding questions and reflections to help you navigate the noise:

Start with Accreditation

Look for coaches who’ve trained at an ICF-accredited school and who are members of the International Coaching Federation (ICF). ICF has been the gold standard since 1995, setting ethical guidelines and rigorous credentialing processes. This matters because real coaching requires more than a motivational weekend—it requires hours of training, practice, mentorship, and integrity.

Coaching isn’t a motivational pep talk, it’s a discipline rooted in deep listening, accountability, and craft. ICF coaches commit to real training, mentorship, and standards that protect your growth.

Credential	Education Hours	Coaching Hours	Mentorship	Exams
CPC (Certified Professional Coach)	60	100	10	Practical & Oral
ACC (Associate Certified Coach)	60+	100+	10+	Practical & Oral
PCC (Professional Certified Coach)	125+	500+	10+	Practical & Oral
MCC (Master Certified Coach)	200+	2,500+	10+	Practical & Oral

Clarify Your Goals

Coaches come with unique specialties—ADHD, leadership, burnout recovery, entrepreneurship, parenting, transitions, and more. Reflect on what you most want right now: Is it deep transformation, accountability, practical strategy, or energetic alignment?

(P.S. If you’re debating between therapy and coaching, I explore this in another post: Do I Need a Coach, a Therapist or a counselor?)

Get Recommendations

Coaching is a $4.6 billion global industry, so chances are someone in your circle has worked with a coach they trust. Ask around. Certified coaches follow ethical standards, but each has their own “special sauce,” as my own coach once told me. One coach’s sauce might be bold and directive; another’s might be gentle and reflective. What kind of style complements your growth?

Trust Your Gut

Coaching isn’t just transactional, it’s relational. Pay attention to how your body responds when you interact with a potential coach. Do you feel seen? Safe? Energized? Listening to your instincts is more than intuition, it’s part of honoring your whole self.

Final Thoughts: Choosing a coach isn’t about picking someone perfectly, it’s about choosing someone who sees your potential, respects your journey, and has the credentials and heart to guide you forward. Your path deserves that level of care.