Surface to Soul's Coaching School is for leaders, and teams who wish to excel in life and become more effective in life, leadership, and coaching. It's for individuals who seek to reinvent themselves, their lives, and the organizations they partner.

Founded by Dr. Felix Villanueva, MCC and Jim LaDoux, Surface to Soul has grown as a coaching and training organization known for being laser-focused on empowering leaders and transforming people's lives. Surface to Soul's Coach School provides leaders with knowledge and skills that consistently transform individuals, teams, and organizations.

Launched in 2019, Surface to Soul Coaching School provides International Coaching Federation-accredited Level One and Level Two programs which encompasses 136 hours of coach-specific training hours that includes the following coaching credentials

Our trainings are delivered primarily through online learning platforms but can be tailored to onsite settings that best fit the training needs and timelines of your organization.

• Core Competencies Course Training (asynchronous)
• ACC-level Coach Training events (offered spring & fall).
• Mentor Coaching (offered May & November).
• PCC-level Coaching (offered in September).
• Coaching Continuing Education (offered 8 times a year).

All of our trainings embed one or more of the International Coaching Federation's 8 core coaching competencies. These include:

• Demonstrating ethical practice
• Embodying a coaching mindset
• Establishing and maintains agreements
• Cultivates trust and safety
• Maintains presence
• Listens actively
• Evokes awareness
• Facilitates client growth

Our trainings are delivered primarily through online learning platforms but can be tailored to onsite settings that best fit the training needs and timelines of your organization.

Coaching is unique approach for helping people recognize opportunities to reinvent themselves and the organizations they serve, making a positive difference in their own lives and the people they encounter everyday. Coaching helps people live a life of significance as they overcome challenges, embrace new ways of thinking, and consistently taking small steps that lead to big results. Whether you seek to become a professional coach, are part of an organization that requires organizational or leadership development, or simply want to apply a new framework for reinventing your own life and leadership, we can help you gain the knowledge and skills needed to be an everyday change-agent.

 Though the Surface to Soul app and our monthly newsletters, we're committed to walking alongside you as your grow your coaching skill snap d grow your coaching practice.

Surface to Soul has developed a proven training model that's unique in four ways:

• We invite students to reinvent their own lives as they discover ways to spark transformation in other people's lives.
• Our training is "hands on" and experiential. We believe that information plus application leads to transformation. Therefore, the majority of our live training session include time for practice the skills we introduce in each session.
• We provide an online learning community to engage with during and beyond your coach training experience. In addition, our student have the opportunity to receive free training and earn free Coaching Continuing Education Units that are needed for renewing your ICF-certification.
• You will always have access to the most current training manuals and resources. We update training content twice a year and notify our students about updated resources.

We don't just talk about coaching. Students demonstrate their learnings during live sessions.

We help students build proficiencies in ICF's Core Competencies & learn how to assess them.

We keep our classes small so that your individual questions and needs are fully addressed.

We provide an online community where current & past students continue to learn & support each other.

Every year, we offer 10+ free ICF-certified continuing education trainings for current & past participants.

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ACC coaches demonstrate fundamental knowledge of the ICF Core Competencies of coaching, the ICF Code of Ethics and the definition of coaching. The ACC is designed to include coaches early in their coaching career and professionals who understand the value of integrating a coaching approach into their practice.

The ACC demonstrates that the earner has the knowledge, skills and understanding of core coaching principles that serve as the foundation for coaching practice. ACC coaches are required to demonstrate their continued professional development to maintain their ACC status. Surface to Soul offers ACC-level training twice a year.

ACC coaches demonstrate fundamental knowledge of the ICF Core Competencies of coaching, the ICF Code of Ethics and the definition of coaching. The ACC is designed to include coaches early in their coaching career and professionals who understand the value of integrating a coaching approach into their practice.

The ACC demonstrates that the earner has the knowledge, skills and understanding of core coaching principles that serve as the foundation for coaching practice. ACC coaches are required to demonstrate their continued professional development to maintain their ACC status. As of December 31, 2023, there were 27,273 active ACC credential-holders worldwide. Surface to Soul offers ACC-level training twice a year.

ELIGIBILITY
60+ hours of coaching education
100+ hours of coaching experience
10 hours of Mentor Coaching with an eligible mentor coach

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Successful completion (passing score) of a performance evaluation
Successful completion (passing score) of the a written exam

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Candidates for the ACC Credential must have at least 100 hours of coaching experience following the start of their coach-specific education.Coaches must complete an attestation of this experience as part of the application.  For this purpose, ICF defines the start of coach-specific education as any course with at least 30 hours of which at least 24 hours are in ICF Core Competencies instruction. Eligible courses can be ICF-accredited or non –ICF-accredited. Please note that all non-accredited programs and CCE-accredited courses are subject to review by ICF as part of the portfolio application path.

The experience hours must have been with at least eight clients, and 25 of the hours must have occurred within the 18 months prior to submitting the credential application. Of the 100 or more coaching experience hours, at least 75 of the hours must be paid. Visit ICF's Coaching Experience page for more details on experience requirements, including all acceptable coaching experiences and how to document them. You will also find the ICF Coaching Log Template at the bottom of ICF's Experience requirement page.

NOTE: The coaching log will not be submitted as part of the application. However, the coaching log should be maintained in the event of an audit.

Professional Certified Coach (PCC) Credential is for the experienced coach looking to evidence their proficiency in coaching skills, knowledge, and competence. Coaches who have earned the Professional Certified Coach credential have achieved proficiency in their knowledge of and ability to apply the ICF Core Competencies and the ICF Code of Ethics as a coaching professional.

The PCC distinguishes coaches with the verified skills required for effective coaching practice and substantial experience partnering with clients. The PCC is designed for established coaches who provide coaching services as a primary focus of their professional practice. PCC coaches are required to demonstrate their continued professional development to maintain their PCC status. As of December 31, 2023, there were 22,521 active PCC credential-holders worldwide.

ELIGIBILITY
125+ hours of coaching education
500+ hours of coaching experience
10 hours of Mentor Coaching with an eligible mentor coach

REQUIREMENTS
Successful completion (passing score) of a performance evaluation
Successful completion (passing score) of the ICF Credentialing Exam

ICF defines mentor coaching as a collaborative process where coaches receive feedback based on observed sessions to refine their skills and style in alignment with ICF Core Competencies. Mentor coaching is not only a requirement for ICF credentialing but also serves as a critical element of a coach’s education. It helps coaches enhance their competence and capabilities, align with professional standards, and develop their unique coaching style. Our mentor coaches will:

• Elevate your coaching standards, providing a structured framework to develop coaching skills that meet ICF Core Competencies, ensuring coaches are well-prepared for certification.
• Support your skill development, by providing you with targeted feedback on your coaching styles and proficiency, especially for credentialing or skill enhancement.
• Help you inform clients and stakeholders by providing transparency for clients, and establishing constructive norms and expectations pertaining to coaching relationships.
• Promote ethical conduct and reflection during all coaching conversations.
• Help you assess your coaching proficiencies, ensuring you are meeting professional standards of competence and professionalism.

ELIGIBILITY
8 hours of group mentor coaching + 3 individual hour-long coaching sessions.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Successful completion (passing score) of a performance evaluation
Successful completion (passing score) of the a written exam

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines Continuing Coaching Education (CCE) as professional development training intended to deepen a coach’s knowledge, build new skills, and enhance their overall coaching effectiveness beyond their initial certification. CCE is part of ICF’s ongoing commitment to uphold high professional standards in coaching by ensuring that credentialed coaches remain current, reflective, and continually growing in their practice.

CCE programs can take many forms—live workshops, virtual classes, webinars, self-paced learning, or mentor coaching—and they are typically offered by ICF-approved providers or by organizations that meet ICF’s content standards. They may cover Core Competencies (skills, knowledge, and behaviors required for effective coaching) or Resource Development (topics that contribute to a coach’s professional growth, such as business building, ethics, or leadership).

BENEFITS OF ONGOING CONTINUING EDUCATION

• Keeps Skills Current and Relevant - Coaching methods, neuroscience research, and leadership trends evolve over time. CCE ensures you remain aligned with current best practices and cutting-edge tools.
• Deepens Mastery of ICF Core Competencies - Ongoing learning sharpens your ability to actively listen, ask powerful questions, and partner effectively with clients in designing actions and achieving outcomes.
• Expands Your Professional Toolkit - Exposure to new frameworks, assessments, and coaching methodologies helps you serve a wider range of clients and contexts.
• Enhances Credibility and Marketability - Demonstrating your commitment to professional growth builds trust with clients and organizations, reinforcing your credibility as a serious, ethical practitioner.
• Supports Reflective Practice and Self-Awareness - Continued education fosters intentional reflection on your coaching style, blind spots, and areas for improvement, resulting in greater confidence and effectiveness.

ICF CCE Requirements for Credential Renewal
ICF requires credentialed coaches to renew their credential every three years, and part of that renewal process involves completing a specified number of CCE hours:

• Associate Certified Coach (ACC): 40 hours of CCE (including at least 24 hours in Core Competencies and 3 hours in Ethics).
• Professional Certified Coach (PCC): 40 hours of CCE (including at least 24 hours in Core Competencies and 3 hours in Ethics).
• Master Certified Coach (MCC): 40 hours of CCE (including at least 24 hours in Core Competencies and 3 hours in Ethics).

The remaining hours can be in Resource Development. Ethics training is a non-negotiable requirement and counts toward the Core Competency hours.

401: Facilitation Skills for Coaching Groups and Teams (September 15)
Want to lead powerful group coaching sessions that leave people energized and inspired? This hands-on workshop gives you the tools to understand the unique dynamics, needs, and potential pitfalls of coaching in group and team settings. You’ll explore how to tailor your pre-work, set clear intentions, and guide group processes effectively—so you can maximize impact whether you’re in a boardroom, retreat, or virtual space. Strengthen your confidence, expand your coaching influence, and walk away with practical facilitation strategies you can apply immediately.

402: Coaching Clients Through Life Transitions (October 20)
Coaching is change—but some life transitions carry extra weight. Whether your clients are exploring a career shift, navigating difficult relationships, seeking wholeness, or stepping into new life stages, you need the right tools to guide them. This session dives deep into coaching approaches for moments of big change, helping you support your clients with grace, courage, and clarity. Deepen your ability to hold space during transitions, strengthen your coaching presence, and equip clients for meaningful, forward movement.

403 | Coaching Ethics in Practice: Navigating Gray Areas (November 17)
Ethics isn’t just a checkbox—it’s lived in every client interaction. This session explores real-world ethical dilemmas and gray areas, helping you strengthen your ethical judgment, apply ICF standards, and navigate challenges with integrity. Boost your ethical confidence, prepare for credentialing, and raise your professionalism.

404-A: Build a Business Plan for Marketing Your Coaching Services (January 26, 2026)
You’ve got the skills—but how will people find you? This interactive class gives you the tools and inspiration to market your coaching services confidently. You’ll explore real-life examples of websites, social media, e-newsletters, and branding materials that stand out, plus hear directly from practicing coaches about what’s working for them. By the end, you’ll leave with clear next steps and practical resources to create your own compelling marketing presence. Craft a marketing plan that feels authentic, learn from peers’ experiences, and set your coaching business up for meaningful impact.

404-B: Building and Sustaining a Thriving Coaching Practice
Want to turn your coaching passion into a thriving business? This session goes beyond skills to cover branding, niche development, pricing strategies, and sustainable business practices. Whether you’re launching or growing, you’ll gain practical tips and proven strategies to attract your ideal clients and create a business that reflects your values. Sharpen your business strategy, clarify your niche, and build sustainable success.

405: Coaching Tools for Managing Multiple Clients
Want a toolkit of practical, powerful resources you can use with clients right away? This class introduces 10 essential coaching tools to help you gather insights, spark discovery, clarify goals, and evaluate progress. You’ll also receive a 56-page Coaching Toolkit packed with resources to strengthen your coaching sessions and boost client outcomes. Expand your coaching toolbox, deepen your session impact, and become even more confident in your client partnerships.

406: Coaching Clients Who Lead Teams and Supervise Staff (February 23)
Many leaders struggle with one of the most important parts of their job: building and managing effective teams. This course equips you to coach clients on selecting the right people, positioning them for success, and creating a development plan that aligns with their vision and goals. You’ll work through practical frameworks and submit a short reflection paper to anchor your learning. Help your clients become stronger leaders, deepen your niche as a leadership coach, and sharpen your own understanding of supervision and team alignment.

407: Define Your Coaching Niche and Products (May 18, 2026)
When someone asks, “What do you do?”—are you crystal clear? This class helps you define your niche, clarify the specific coaching services you offer, and articulate why you’re the best choice for the clients you most want to serve. sharpen your niche, strengthen your marketing voice, and create a compelling message that draws your ideal clients. You’ll roll up your sleeves with hands-on exercises to answer three key questions:

• WHO do you serve?
• WHAT do you offer?
• WHY are you the right fit?


408: Coaching Ethics in Practice: Navigating Gray Areas
Ethics isn’t just a checkbox—it’s lived in every client interaction. This session explores real-world ethical dilemmas and gray areas, helping you strengthen your ethical judgment, apply ICF standards, and navigate challenges with integrity.
Join to: boost your ethical confidence, prepare for credentialing, and raise your professionalism.

409: Partnering with Clients for Accountability and Action (March 16, 2026)
How do you create accountability without micromanaging? This class explores how to co-create meaningful accountability agreements that empower clients and honor their ownership of growth. You’ll practice partnering around follow-through and supporting sustainable action.
Join to: improve client outcomes, sharpen accountability practices, and strengthen your partnership skills.

410: Advanced Listening: Beyond Words and Into Presence (April 20, 2026)
Master coaches don’t just hear words—they tune into energy, tone, and what’s unsaid. This workshop sharpens your deep listening and presence skills, helping you coach at a more transformational level. Learn to recognize embodied cues, emotional currents, and limiting narratives that open the door to powerful breakthroughs.
Join to: elevate your coaching presence, deepen client insights, and expand your capacity as a listener.

REGISTRATION
Use the link below to register for upcoming trainings.  400 series courses are $50 each. These events are free for Surface to Soul Coaching School Alumni.