Having Brown University's School of Professional Studies on your LPCC certificate is a genuine differentiator. It reflects a partnership built on shared academic rigor and a commitment to developing exceptional coaches, something clients recognize and value. To see how this plays out for our graduates, check out our client testimonials and student experience webinars.
Please contact us and we will provide information to support requesting financial support for the LPCC program from your employer.
ACT offers multiple LPCC cohorts throughout the year, so please review the dates carefully and enroll in a cohort where you can attend every session.
LPCC students do receive guidance on the business of coaching during Module 1; we encourage you to join our robust Alumni Community after completing the LPCC program for webinars and series dedicated solely to building a coaching business.
The focus of LPCC is 1:1 coaching with an individual client, in line with the ICF Level 1 ACC standards. We have a separate Team Coaching program (also accredited with the ICF) that focuses specifically on teams. This program is available once students have successfully completed LPCC. The content is similar for both programs; however, applying it in a team context requires further training. Many LPCC Alumni have shared how they have integrated the coaching skills into their leadership style and are able to develop their teams, for example in communicating effectively, listening and asking questions differently.
ACT as a company is accredited for both Level 1 and Level 2. LPCC is the Level 1 program for ACC credentials. If you want to get your Level 2 (PCC credentials), we recommend completing our LEAP coaching program, for which LPCC is a prerequisite.
Our data shows no discernible difference in coaching quality between in-person and virtual LPCC training. Each format offers different strengths: virtual provides convenience, cost savings, and a more global cohort, while in-person builds strong in-room connections and networking. Ultimately, impact depends more on your personal learning style and circumstances than the format itself.
You can coach anyone over 18 except: family members, close friends, direct reports or supervisors, or other coaches, coaches-in-training (including those in your cohort), and alumni coaches. The ICF discourages coaching of spouses or close family members due to potential personal bias. The ICF also prohibits coaching of direct reports, supervisors, or anyone where the coach has influence over their performance appraisal.
LPCC stands out through its Brown University partnership, a robust online alumni community with ICF-aligned learning opportunities, and a coaching pathway that grows with you, including Leader as Coach, Team Coaching, and LEAP/Level 2 Coaching. [Read our Top 10 Reasons →] Link https://www.actleader.com/blog/act-leadership-performance-coaching-certification-program-10-differentiators
ACT stands for Awareness → Choice → Transformation, and this is the overarching coaching method used throughout all programs including LPCC. Whether it be Values, Purpose, Inner Critic, Emotional Presence or developing Range, we invite leaders to become Aware so they can make an informed Choice as to how they want to show up and the impact that they want to create, leading to Transformation.
LEAP is grounded in the idea that an equation has two elements: an outcome and the variables that produce it. In LEAP's framework, the outcome is leadership performance, shaped by four core dimensions operating within one dynamic context, always interacting.
The Team Coaching Certification is delivered by ACT Leadership in partnership with Brown University's School of Professional Studies, and is approved for the Advanced Accreditation in Team Coaching (AATC) through the ICF, providing a pathway to the ICF Advanced Certification in Team Coaching (ACTC). The program runs over three months and is designed for coaches with prior 1:1 coaching experience who are ready to extend their practice to Team Coaching.
Level 2 requires 125 hours of coach-specific training. Our LPCC Level 1 program provides 100 hours of training. To obtain your PCC, you will require an additional 25 hours. Our LEAP program with the Level 2 add-on provides the additional training hours as well as the Level 2 Performance Evaluation to become eligible for PCC credentials.To obtain the PCC with the ICF, you must complete 500 hours of practice coaching hours.
LEAP (Leadership Equation Advanced Program) is built around the idea that leadership performance is shaped by an interacting set of variables rather than fixed strengths or competencies. LEAP is designed for leaders who want to move beyond fixed frameworks and static self-assessments, aiming instead to see more clearly, adapt more skillfully, and lead with greater intention.
To apply, complete the application found here. A $50 non-refundable application fee is required. Applications are reviewed and acceptances issued on a rolling basis. You will hear from our team within 5-7 business days. Additional information or a 1:1 meeting with a Program Advisor may be required.
When the LPCC cohort is virtual, we have a much broader geographical spread. Currently, 75% of our participants are based in the USA or Canada. We are proud to have trained and worked with a diverse range of leaders from various backgrounds, including actors, musicians, government officials, healthcare professionals and nonprofit workers, who all share a common desire to serve.
ACT shares Brown University's mission to develop reflective leaders, to effect change in the world, and to improve human welfare. We believe that leaders are responsible for their impact and are responsible for creating positive, inclusive environments for people from all backgrounds to feel safe showing up as their authentic selves. (Video: https://youtu.be/E5iCbisl_ho)
It depends. Some people who have taken the program previously do so to formalize their coaching skills. The entry point depends on what you want to achieve. At this stage, we recommend booking a call with a Program Advisor to understand your needs better.
We do not provide client matching services, but we do offer guidance on how to find clients. Additionally, we provide a coaching exchange setup with your peers.
The ICF issues ACC credentials. The prerequisite for that is the LPCC Level 1 Certificate, issued through ACT and Brown University. In order to obtain your ACC, you will need the Level 1 Certificate as well as 100 hours of coaching practice. Additionally, you will need to pass the ICF Credentialing Exam.
For the LPCC Hybrid program, Modules 1 and 3 are in-person at Brown School of Professional Studies in Providence, RI and Module 2 is delivered virtually.
Many students have a fully fledged coaching practice built when they complete LPCC. Others take longer, using the time to reflect on the type of client they want to serve. Some focus on 1:1 Leadership Coaching, others integrate coaching into consulting, team interventions and other forms of organizational development.
ACT is able to support LPCC Performance Evaluations in select other languages, as approved by ICF. Please contact us for more information.
Yes. LPCC is a Level 1 ICF-accredited program for 100 coach-specific training hours.
Most participants who complete LPCC/Level 1 apply for their ACC Credentials, even while working towards their PCC credentials through the LEAP Program with Level 2 Add on. The PCC credential requires 500 practice coaching hours so most opt to obtain the ACC credential first. More detailed information can be found on the ICF website.
To enroll in LEAP, participants must have completed the ACT LPCC Level 1 program. An ACC credential is not required.
LEAP includes one Live Module consisting of three virtual training days led by two ACT Co-Trainers, along with three 90-minute Mentor Coaching Group calls.
Team Coaching is offered virtually or in a hybrid format, with in-person sessions held in Providence, Rhode Island.
LPCC trains you to become a credentialed Leadership Coach, certified through the ICF at the ACC level. Throughout the program, you'll develop the ability to coach confidently using the ICF Level 1 / ACC Core Competencies, tracked via the Feedback Form you'll use throughout your training. Core content includes 4 Coaching Mindsets (e.g., Client is Naturally Creative, Resourceful + Whole), 22 Coaching Skills (e.g., Powerful Questions, Checking In, Acknowledging), and 12 Coaching Concepts (e.g., Values, Inner Critic, Purpose, Range).LPCC also touches on adjacent disciplines — including DE&I, Neuroscience, Leader Development, and Setting Up Your Coaching Practice — through supplemental resources and webinars. While valuable, these areas aren't core to the certification and may not be equally relevant to every participant.
Upon completion of all LPCC programmatic requirements, students submit a recording of a 30 minute coaching session to an ACT Performance Assessor. The Performance Assessor will evaluate the recording according to the minimum skills requirements based on the ICF Core Competencies and provide a Pass / Fail. If you are successful, you will receive a Level 1 Certificate that you will submit to the ICF as part of your ACC application upon completion of 100 practice coaching hours.
LPCC welcomes leaders at every stage. From emerging leaders just stepping into new roles to senior executives with decades of experience, and everyone in between
Tuition and Payment information can be found here
ACT typically runs two Team Coaching cohorts per year, in spring and fall, offered virtually or in hybrid format.
The program has 3 live modules, each spanning 3 days. These modules are instructor-led with 2 instructors and run from 8:30am to 4:30pm. In additon to this there are 5 Mentor Group Coaching Sessions.
Yes, they run from 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM Eastern Time. We've received feedback that our approach is engaging, and we encourage you to be comfortable throughout the day. Trainers present throughout the day while also prompting engagement from participants. We expect your commitment to engage and attend so that the learning is truly experiential.
LPCC focuses on leadership and performance within an organizational context. The emphasis is on the individual, or client, making it similar to "life" coaching. The topics that clients bring to the sessions may not be work-related but can still impact their performance and are therefore typically relevant for leadership coaching.
ACT provides a coaching log for all LPCC participants that can also be used to log the additional hours that are required by the ICF. Alternatively, you may use the coaching log template provided by the ICF. (Link: https://coachingfederation.org/experience-requirements)
Yes, they run from 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM. We've received feedback that our approach is engaging, and we encourage you to be comfortable throughout the day. Trainers present throughout the day while also prompting engagement from participants. We expect your commitment to engage and attend so that the learning is truly experiential.
Yes. ACT can come directly to your organization's location to deliver programming in-person. We can also host your team at Brown University for an immersive, on-campus experience. In-person delivery is designed for deep engagement and hands-on learning.
Yes, attendance is required for the instructor-led module training sessions with your full cohort, as well as the Mentor Coaching Group sessions (multiple scheduling options available). The topic-based special sessions on predetermined dates are also required, with all dates shared in advance. Other program elements, Individual Mentor Feedback, Coaching Practice Triads, and Self-Paced Learning offer scheduling flexibility. A few sessions, like the Program Manager check-in and Performance Evaluation Prep, are strongly recommended live and if missed watching a recording is required).
While LPCC doesn't provide direct branding or marketing services, it does offer meaningful ongoing support through our Alumni Community, where graduates can access exclusive webinars and events hosted in the virtual ACT Leadership Communty. Once you earn your ACC credential, ICF also lists you in its directory of certified coaches — giving you added visibility as you build your practice, even though ICF doesn't handle marketing on your behalf.
At least 90% of our Alumni apply for their Associate Certified Coach credential upon completion of the LPCC program.
Not during the program itself. However, every two years we host a 2-day Alumni Connect event in person at the Brown University School of Professional Studies campus in Providence, RI, where all alumni have the opportunity to meet, learn, and network with each other.
Yes. LEAP is aligned to ICF Core Competencies at the PCC level and is accredited for Level 2.
LPCC cohorts are capped at no more than 24 people. We keep the group intentionally small to preserve the quality of the learning experience, it allows for deeper discussion, more individualized feedback, and stronger peer connections throughout the program. With few exceptions, LPCC cohort fill to capacity
We recommend having practice clients lined up before your LPCC program begins, since you'll start coaching right away. Your first practice session takes place as homework on the evening of Day 2 of Module 1. To complete all 50 required hours over the 8-month program, we suggest coaching about 2 hours per week, so securing clients early will help you stay on track from day one
You may begin recording your coaching hours on Day 1 of Module 1 of the LPCC program.
Yes. Between Modules 1 and 2, Team Coaching participants pair with a co-coach and lead at least one 90-minute team coaching session with a real team in a real workplace, followed by a check-in call before returning for Module 2.
LPCC is accredited by the ICF for 100 hours of coach-specific training. This satisfies the training hour requirement for the ACC credential and contributes toward eligibility for higher-level ICF credentials as you continue to log coaching hours
LEAP includes 25 core training hours, made up of 18 synchronous hours and 7 asynchronous hours.
LAC is grounded in developmental psychology, neuroscience, and leadership effectiveness research. Through the program, you'll develop multi-dimensional leadership skills, reframe limiting mindsets, apply coaching skills across different work contexts, and build the capacity to empower and motivate your team toward better results.
Around 75% of our students are working full time. Before applying to the program, they will have designed their schedule to incorporate the 100 hours of coach training and 50 hours of coaching practice into their work schedule.
Yes. LEAP incorporates The Leadership Equation by Mike Hutchins, ACT Co-Founder, using it as a living case study throughout the program.
Many employers offer tuition assistance or professional development funding that can be used toward ACT programs. ACT and Brown SPS provide a customizable sample letter to help you start that conversation with your manager.
Team Coaching includes 70 hours of advanced training across two three-day modules plus a field application project. Upon completion, you'll have a clear pathway to the ICF Advanced Certification in Team Coaching (ACTC).
No, there is a price difference. Please refer to the tuition and payment information here
No, there is a price difference. Please refer to the tuition and payment information here.
For the hours to be counted as paid hours, there must be an exchange of value. It can be as little as $1, or it can also be a barter exchange of services.
Most LPCC Alumni that we see on LinkedIn call themselves a "Leadership Coach". over 90% go on to obtain their ACC credentials with the ICF, and they can also call themselves Associate Certified Coach (ACC)
LPCC applicants generally have at least 5 years of professional experience. Beyond that, the program welcomes a broad range of backgrounds: from CEOs and COOs to consultants, educators, and those entering coaching as a second career or in retirement. We evaluate each LPCC application based on your experience and your goals for applying what you learn.
Team Coaching helps coaches work with teams to improve effectiveness, relationships, and performance. You'll explore group dynamics, individual accountability, and how to co-create innovative solutions across a team, with a focus on shaping team culture and driving lasting engagement.
Not necessarily. We have had people apply to the LPCC program who want to appeal to all types of audiences, including emergency room doctors, consultants, physicians, internal coaches from organizations, and coaches wanting to set up their own business. It all depends on how you want to use the coaching. Additionally, our program takes a whole-person approach, examining underlying assumptions and patterns of belief that influence behavior and impact.
Yes. ACT designs delivery around your people, your schedule, and your goals. Every organization is at a different stage in building its coaching culture, and ACT's approach reflects that. Whether you need a standalone workshop or a multi-month initiative, the team will work with you to design something that fits.
Yes. To complete PCC/Level 2 requirements through LEAP, participants must also complete the Level 2 Add-On, which includes three Individual Enhanced Mentor Coaching Sessions (60 minutes each), at an additional tuition cost of $1,500.
You will receive a list of recommended hotels in the area and you may request the Brown University rate. On Day 3 of the in-person program, you will receive a catered lunch and an opportunity for us to chat and answer questions.
You will receive a list of recommended hotels in the area and you may request the Brown University rate.
While the LPCC program doesn't include job placement or job search assistance, it equips you with skills that many participants have used to grow within their own organizations or launch a coaching practice with their new ACC credential. For broader insights on coaching salaries and career trends, we also recommend the ICF Coaching Report.
The ACT/Brown LPCC program contextualizes leadership ideas and concepts. We approach it from the perspective of helping individuals, managers, or leaders increase their effectiveness, performance, and interpersonal relationships. This work is applicable to everyone, but it is not specifically a career coaching course. Rather, it is geared more towards professional coaching.
Around 75% of the LPCC cohort composition is from North America. Of the remaining 25%, students are spread geographically from around the world.
Yes. LAC hosts periodic virtual information sessions as well as masterclasses where you can learn more before enrolling.
To complete all 50 required hours over the 8-month LPCC program, we suggest coaching about 2 hours per week. For ACC credentaling, 75 of the 100 hours do not have a time limit. However, 25 of the hours must be from within 18 months of the application date.
Team Coaching is designed for certified or accredited coaches who already hold, or are working toward, an ICF ACC credential and want to extend their existing coaching experience into a team setting.
Yes. LAC includes hands-on practice through demonstrations and small-group exercises, helping you build confidence in applying coaching skills and structuring a coach-like conversation it also includes small-group coaching practice with your cohort members, where you'll both practice coaching and receive coaching yourself as part of the learning process.
It depends on your background. If you're already an ICF-credentialed coach, the LPCC program likely isn't necessary for you. If you've been trained in a different coaching style, we recommend checking whether that training aligns with the ICF Core Competencies, and scheduling a call with one of our Program Advisors, who can help you determine the best path forward.If you've been coaching without an ICF credential, the LPCC program can help you earn your ACC credential. Keep in mind that the ICF requires coaching hours to be completed through a credentialed coaching school, so hours from your previous coaching experience might not count toward this requirement.
Our programs run either from Tuesday to Thursday or Friday to Sunday with different combinations for in-person, hybrid and virtual. (Link: https://www.actleader.com/leadership-programs/leadership-performance-coaching-certification-program
Yes. ACT offers ICF-accredited Coaching Certification at both Level 1 and Level 2. These programs are ideal for HR leaders, internal coaches, or high-potential employees your organization wants to invest in as credentialed coaches. Participants complete the program with hours that count toward their ICF credential application.
No. LAC sessions are highly interactive and experiential rather than lecture-based. You'll observe live coaching demonstrations, participate in role play, and work in small breakout groups — with a mix of trainer-led content, group discussion, coaching practice, and reflection time throughout.
Yes. Team Coaching includes three small-group supervision sessions guided by a qualified Team Coach Supervisor, focused reflectively on you as the practitioner, distinct from mentoring or observation.
Beyond live sessions, LEAP includes asynchronous content such as coaching demonstration videos, self-paced learning materials, and access to faculty office hours for additional support.
Once you have successfully completed your Level 1 Performance Evaluation with ACT, you then need a total of 100 practice coaching hours to apply for your ACC credentials with the ICF. After your application is completed and reviewed, you will sit for a proctored, online Credentialing Exam. Upon successful completion of the ICF Credentialing Exam, you will be issued your ACC credentials. Visit the ICF website for more information about the Credentialing Exam. (Link: https://coachingfederation.org/credentials-and-standards/credentialing-exam)
No, Full attendance is required to complete the LAC 3-day in person program. It is possible to miss one of the virtual sessions and watch a recording to complete the program.
Yes, you can log internal hours towards your required hours as long as your job description includes the term "coach" or "coaching." This can usually be achieved by speaking with your HR department about adding it to your job description.
Yes. As long as coaching is part of your job description, those sessions can count toward your 50-hour LPCC requirement
Federal agencies can engage ACT directly through the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS), which streamlines the procurement process for organizations and ensures compliance. ACT is an approved contractor, making it straightforward for federal teams to access coach training and leadership development services at pre-negotiated rates.
The Embodied program is approved for 15.5 continuing education credits (CCEs). This is divided into 1.5 core competency credits and 14 resource development credits (1.5 CC and 14 RD).
Finding coaching clients is different for every individual. Someone within an organization may not need to work as hard to find clients, but their available hours may be limited, depending on their role. For LPCC participants, we provide a client exchange program within cohorts, but you will also need to reach out to friends, peers, and communities to find practice clients for the program. Everyone who participates in the program is required to find practice clients and log 50 practice coaching hours.We also offer a program called "Accelerate My Practice" on building your own coaching business, exclusively for our alumni as part of the ACT Alumni Programs.
Yes. ACT typically begins with a conversation to understand your organization's context, goals, and constraints before recommending a path forward. There's no pressure and no commitment required - just an open dialogue to explore whether and how ACT can be a good fit for your team.
The easiest way to get started is to reach out through the Contact the Team form on this page. A member of the ACT team will follow up to learn more about your organization's goals and explore how ACT can help.
Tuition and Payment information can be found here
Yes, the 50 hours of practice coaching completed for the LPCC program may be used towards the 100 hours required for your ACC credentials with the ICF.
Yes. All of ACT's programs are available in a fully virtual format using the latest digital learning tools, making it easy for organizations of any size or location to participate. Virtual delivery maintains the same quality and engagement as in-person: no travel required, no compromise on the experience.
We provide a Participant Guide for every module. Our program content was created (and continues to be edited) for the specific use of LAC participants. Participants are welcome to use the Participant Guide when working 1:1 with their own clients, but for use beyond the 1:1 coaching context, please contact us for permission.
Absolutely. ACT's Team Coaching and LEAP Coaching programs are specifically designed with credentialed coaches in mind, supporting organizations that want to deepen their internal coaching capacity. Whether your coaches are looking to deepen their individual practice or learn to coach teams, ACT provides a structured, accredited path for continued development.
We provide a Participant Guide for every module. Our program content was created (and continues to be edited) for the specific use of LPCC participants. Participants are welcome to use the Participant Guide when working 1:1 with their own clients, but for use beyond the 1:1 coaching context, please contact us for permission.
We provide a Participant Guide for every module. Our program content was created (and continues to be edited) for the specific use of Team Coaching participants. Participants are welcome to use the Participant Guide when working ith their teams, but for use beyond the team coaching context, please contact us for permission.
ACT is certified by the Small Business Administration (SBA) as a Women-Owned Small Business. For organizations with supplier diversity goals, and for federal agencies with small business contracting requirements, this designation makes ACT a strong and compliant partner choice.
Each Embodied workshop and retreat are handled individually, depending on the space. Typically, attendance is limited to approximately 10-15 participants.
Yes. Upon successful completion of LAC, you'll receive a Certificate of Completion from Brown University School of Professional Studies.
Accommodation is included in the cost of the Embodied program (when specified). Travel arrangements are made individually.
We suggest dressing comfortably, in clothing that allows natural movement.