Q: What is accreditation, and why should I apply for it?
A: Accreditation is a process that recognizes your professional coaching qualifications. By becoming accredited with the Association for Coaching (AC), you gain credibility as a coach, access to professional resources, and the ability to join a global network of certified coaches. It’s an important step for anyone looking to advance their coaching career.
Q: How do I get started with accreditation?
A: To begin, claim your free 12-month Introductory Associate Membership with the Association for Coaching (AC). You’ll find the link and step-by-step instructions inside the Accreditation Course in your dashboard.
Next, complete the Accreditation Course, which will guide you through each requirement. This includes filling out your Accreditation Workbook—also located within the course.
Once your workbook is complete, email it to us at [email protected] for review.
After your workbook is approved, you’ll submit the following documents directly to the AC:
A completed Client Reference form
Your Coach Self-Assessment
Your Certificate of Completion for the Integrated Attachment Theory Certification Program
Your Accreditation Assessment Checklist (We’ll provide this after reviewing your workbook)
All of these documents, along with the AC submission link, are provided inside your Accreditation Course.
Q: Where do I upload my Accreditation Workbook?
A: You can upload your Accreditation Workbook in Chapter 3 (Apply for Accreditation) of the Accreditation Course in your student dashboard. After uploading your workbook, notify us by emailing [email protected] so that our team can manually review your materials.
Q: I can't upload my Accreditation Workbook. What should I do?
A: To successfully upload your Accreditation Workbook, please ensure that:
The file size is under 100 MB.
You can only upload one document, so make sure all pages are combined into a single file (PDF or DOC format).
The document will be multiple pages in length but the combined content must fit within the allowed size (100 MB).
Q: What happens after I submit my Accreditation Workbook?
A: Once you’ve submitted your workbook, the PDS team will manually review your materials and confirm that you meet the accreditation requirements. After approval, you will receive a Coach Training Assessment form that you will provide to the Association for Coaching when applying for accreditation.
Q: How long does the accreditation process take?
A: The accreditation review process for involves manual review. We’ll notify you once your submission has been reviewed, and send you a completed Coach Training Assessment form. From there, you will complete your accreditation application with the Association for Coaching.
Q: Is accreditation mandatory?
A: No, accreditation is optional. However, it adds significant value to your career as a relationship coach, providing global recognition and access to a community of professionals.
Q: Can I apply for full accreditation right away?
A: Yes, once your accreditation is approved at the Foundation Level, you can apply for Full Membership with the Association for Coaching. This can be done after you’ve been accredited.
Q: I completed my certification a while ago. Do I still qualify for the complimentary membership?
A: Yes, as a Fall 2 Cohort or Winter 2025 graduate, and as long as you completed your IAT™ Relationship Coaching Certification through PDS, you are eligible for the free 12-month Introductory Associate Membership and can apply for Accelerated Foundation-Level Accreditation.
Q: How much does accreditation cost?
A: As per the Association for Coaching, it is £135 for the Accelerated Foundation Level Accreditation. Please see the Association for Coaching’s website for all individual fees: Individual Coach Accreditation.
Q: I need help submitting my documents to the student portal.
A: For any additional questions or assistance, don’t hesitate to contact [email protected].