The 5 Most Trusted Holistic Life Coach Certifications

Want to become a holistic life coach so that you can help others find balance and purpose in their lives? 

As a holistic life coach, you get to empower others to thrive emotionally, physically, and spiritually, while creating freedom and flexibility for yourself. 

But how do you even get started? 

Today, you’ll learn:

• What skills you need to become a holistic life coach
• The top certifications (and whether you need one or not) 
• How to get your first coaching clients 
• And more!

Ready to get started? Let’s dive in.

Best holistic life coach certifications: 

• Holistic Coach Certification Program (Holistic Coach Training Institute): Ideal for new and experienced coaches seeking ICF-accredited training with a focus on business start-up support and flexible online learning.
• Holistic Health Coach Certification (AFPA): A program for health coaches wanting to combine wellness coaching and nutrition expertise through self-paced, research-based online training.
• Holistic Health and Life Coaching Certification (Natural Wellness Academy): Great for aspiring holistic coaches looking for personalized mentoring, hands-on experience, and a comprehensive health-focused curriculum.

What is a holistic life coach?

A holistic life coach helps clients align their mind, body, and soul to live their most authentic and fulfilling lives. Unlike traditional coaching that often focuses on one area—like career or relationships—holistic coaching looks at the whole person. 

This means addressing multiple dimensions of wellness, such as:

• Mindset: Overcoming limiting beliefs and building confidence
• Relationships: Cultivating meaningful connections
• Career: Finding purpose and balance in work
• Spirituality: Connecting with one’s inner self or higher power
• Nutrition: Supporting the body through healthy choices

…And so on.

As you can see, holistic life coaching can have a significant impact in your clients’ lives. You get to do fulfilling and impactful work, while growing a business that is both profitable and scalable–so you can eventually quit your day job and create a life of more freedom and fulfillment. 

And as the life coaching industry is a $4.56 billion industry, your clients are within your reach. 

Here’s the thing, though: To have the biggest impact (and attract the right clients), you’ll want to specialize.

Take my former client, Summer, for example. She launched her holistic life coaching business to help clients find balance and purpose. While she works with multiple areas of life, she’s known for her expertise in spirituality. Her focus makes her stand out and makes it easy for clients to know what to expect. 

Here’s her full story: 

Another key to delivering transformational results? Using the right methods. A few commonly used techniques include: 

1. Reiki: An energy-healing practice to reduce stress and promote relaxation
2. Creative healing: Activities like drawing or journaling to process emotions and inspire growth
3. Guided imagery: Visualization exercises to help clients explore their goals and unlock inner clarity

Ready to learn what being a holistic life coach really involves? Let’s dive into the day-to-day work and how to get started.

What does a holistic life coach do?

Holistic life coaches are guides who help their clients create meaningful change and discover true fulfillment in their lives.

But what does that actually look like in daily practice?

Here are some key tasks you’ll take on as a holistic life coach:

• Assessing well-being: Understanding your clients’ current state across all areas of life
• Developing a positive mindset: Helping clients reframe limiting beliefs and build confidence
• Supporting wellness goals: Assisting in setting and achieving personal milestones
• Fostering emotional growth: Guiding clients through self-discovery and emotional balance
• Creating life balance: Helping clients integrate all aspects of their lives for harmony

Through your coaching, you don’t just offer advice—you provide the structure, tools, and encouragement your clients need to make lasting transformations.

Let’s look at an example.

Imagine a client comes to you feeling stuck in their career. They’re burned out, drained, and unsure of their next steps. 

As a holistic life coach, you wouldn’t simply focus on finding them a new job. Instead, you’d take a broader approach, exploring how their mindset, health, and relationships are influencing their career struggles.

This way, your client can find balance in all areas.

With a clearer understanding of your role, you might be wondering: Where can you make the biggest impact? Let’s dive into that next.

Where can a holistic life coach work?

One of the biggest perks of becoming a holistic life coach is the freedom to choose where—and how—you work. Whether you want to build your own business or join a team, there are plenty of options. 

Here are some of the most popular paths:

• Private practice: Many holistic life coaches choose to run their own businesses. As your own boss, you set your schedule, decide your prices, and create your unique coaching programs. You have slightly higher business costs because you need to cover rent. 
• Online coaching: Online coaching takes private practice to the next level. You can work with clients from all over the world—all from the comfort of your home. Set your hours, expand your reach, and help people wherever they are. 
• Wellness centers: Wellness centers bring together professionals like yoga instructors, nutritionists, and massage therapists. You get to collaborate with others who complement your work while focusing on helping clients achieve total well-being.
• Corporate environments: Companies are starting to prioritize employee wellness. In a corporate setting, you’ll help employees reduce stress, boost productivity, and find balance. It’s a great option if you enjoy working with groups and making an impact in the workplace.

You don’t have to choose one of these options. Instead, you can create a career that works for your goals and lifestyle. 

Now you know what holistic lifestyle coaching is. 

So, how do you become one? 

If you’re considering becoming certified, that’s where you’ll start. (Note: As you’ll see below, you don’t need a certification. With the right experience, you can become a holistic life coach without one.)

Let’s look at how to choose a certification. 

How to choose a certification

Thinking about getting certified but not sure where to start? Picking the best holistic life coach certification can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. 

To make the process easier, focus on these six key factors:

• Accreditation: Ensure the program is recognized by a respected organization, like the ICF (International Coaching Federation). Accreditation adds credibility and reassures potential clients that your training meets professional standards.
• Reputation: Look for programs with strong reviews and positive feedback from past students. 
• Cost: Choose a program that fits your budget but also delivers value. 
• Length: How much time can you commit? Some programs are intensive and short, while others are longer and more in-depth. Pick one that works with your schedule and learning style.
• Curriculum: A solid certification program should cover both coaching techniques and business essentials. You’ll want to feel confident not only coaching clients but also running your practice.
• Flexibility: Depending on your lifestyle, you might prefer a self-paced program you can complete at your own speed, or you might thrive with fixed classes that provide structure.

Key takeaway: The best certification is the one that aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and budget.

Need more help? Check out my guide on picking the best certification program. It dives deeper into what to look for and which programs stand out.

Ready to explore some top holistic life coach certifications? Let’s get started.

Best holistic life coaching certifications

Choosing the right certification can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. 

To make it easier, I’ve narrowed down the top five holistic life coach certifications. Let’s explore what makes each one stand out.

Note: I haven’t enrolled in these certification programs. This list is based on publicly available information online and reviews. Always do your research to assess whether a program works for you! 

1. Holistic Coach Certification Program

Holistic Coach Training Institute 

The Holistic Coach Training Institute offers a streamlined program designed to build your coaching skills through:

• Video training
• Peer practice sessions
• Live online classes

This program is ICF-accredited, offering both Level 1 (ACC) and Level 2 (PCC) certifications. Here’s a quick breakdown of the ICF credential levels:

• Level 1 (ACC): Requires 100 coaching hours, 60 training hours, and 8+ clients
• Level 2 (PCC): Requires 500 coaching hours, 125 training hours, and 25+ clients
• Level 3 (MCC): Requires 2,500 coaching hours, 200 training hours, and 35+ clients

What sets this program apart? Its bonus Business Start-Up Course helps you build your coaching offer and attract clients.

Program details:

• Price: $3,850 (for Level 1 when paid upfront)
• Accreditation: ICF
• Format: Online
• Duration: Six months

2. Holistic Health Coach Certification

AFPA 

The American Fitness Professionals and Associates (AFPA) Holistic Health Coach Certification combines two core certifications into one:

• Certified Health and Wellness Coach
• Holistic Nutritionist Certification

This dual approach is perfect if you’re passionate about both health and nutrition and want to become a certified holistic health coach. The program covers research on nutrition and behavior change through tools like:

• 60 hours of video instruction
• Practice coaching sessions
• Case studies
• Quizzes

For more, check out their free program guide.

Program details:

• Price: $1,699
• Accreditation: ANMAB and the NBHWC
• Format: Online
• Duration: Self-paced

And if you want to learn how to become a holistic health coach, read my guide here. 

3. Holistic Life Coach Certification

Spencer Institute 

The Spencer Institute offers a beginner-friendly program with four modules:

• Introduction to the holistic movement
• Two modules on essential coaching skills
• Client assessments
• In-depth self-assessment

As a bonus, the program includes an Essential Coaching Skills course. Here, the focus is on how to start working with clients and feel confident in your coaching approach.

This is perfect for beginners, as you’ll learn the needed skills to start coaching right away. Once certified, you can work with a variety of clients in different settings.

The certification is valid for two years, and you’ll need 20 hours of continuing education credits (CEUs) to renew it.

Program details:

• Price: $427
• Accreditation: AADP
• Format: Online
• Duration: Self-paced

4. Holistic Health and Life Coaching Certification

Natural Wellness Academy 

Offered by the Natural Wellness Academy, this 150-hour holistic wellness certification is split into six modules. It includes:

• Personalized mentoring
• Practical coaching skills development
• Business growth strategies

You’ll also receive a Holistic Health and Life Coaching Reference Manual, which provides tools to coach clients through 30+ common health conditions. An optional two-day intensive offers hands-on experience. 

Program details:

• Price: $2,795
• Accreditation: AADP
• Format: Online
• Duration: 9-12 months

5. Holistic Life Coach & Mind-Body Practitioner Certification

MindBodyFood Institute

The MindBodyFood Institute offers a dual certification program that dives deep into:

• Coaching foundations
• Mind-body connection
• Business and marketing

You’ll also dive into behavioral neuroscience and positive psychology to deepen your understanding of how the mind and body interact. The program includes regular live Q&A calls and one-on-one mentor support. You’ll graduate with:

• Practical experience
• A clear business plan
• And a 12-week signature program ready to launch

The course is structured but offers the flexibility of self-paced learning. While designed to take five to six months, you have up to 12 to complete it.

Program details:

• Price: $2,270 (listed in AUD on the site)
• Accreditation: ACCPH and AADP among others
• Format: Online
• Duration: Five to six months

Each of these certifications offers unique benefits, so it’s about finding the one that aligns with your goals, budget, and schedule. And if you want to learn more about certification programs, take a look at this list of the top holistic lifestyle certification programs. 

Ready to take the next step? Let’s dive into how to start your holistic life coaching business.

How do you become a certified holistic life coach?

Becoming a holistic life coach is simpler than you might think. You don’t need a groundbreaking business idea or an online audience to get started. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you launch your career as a holistic life coach:

1. Define a niche

Want to stand out and attract the right clients? Start by defining your niche.

A broad focus like “life coaching” might get you some traction, but the more specific you are, the better. Narrowing your niche lets you position yourself as an expert, making it easier for ideal clients to find you—and for you to deliver exceptional results.

Some popular holistic life coaching niches include:

• Stress management
• Spiritual growth
• Career transitions
• Health and wellness coaching
• And relationship coaching

Not sure where to start? Watch my video on finding your profitable niche with just one sentence:

Once you’ve found your niche, it’s time to create a standout brand.

2. Create a holistic life coaching brand

Your coaching brand is what sets you apart and shows clients why you’re the coach they need.

To create a compelling brand, ask yourself:

• What makes my coaching unique?
• What personal experiences or skills can I highlight?
• What results can I deliver?

For example, I help busy entrepreneurs leave their 9-5 because I’ve done it myself. That’s my Unique Selling Proposition (USP)—and it’s what attracts clients who want similar results.

That’s what makes my coaching effective and unique. And it’s how I deliver incredible results like these:

Want to create a brand that stands out? Watch my video on the three must-haves for a business that stands out:

Next up? Figuring out if you want to get certified.

3. Get certified

Do you need a coaching certification to become a holistic life coach? Not necessarily. 

Many successful coaches build thriving businesses by focusing on what clients value most: Transformative results. 

Your ability to guide clients through meaningful changes will always be more important than having a holistic coaching certification. 

However, if you decide to get certified, take a look at the list of certifications I shared above. Look for an accredited program, as accreditation ensures the program meets professional standards and positions you as a qualified expert in your field.

Ultimately, the fastest way to grow as a coach is to start working with clients. 

Real-life experience will teach you more than any course ever could, and it’s the key to building confidence and delivering real results.

Next, let’s talk about how to turn that experience into a coaching package that attracts clients and provides incredible value.

4. Create and price a holistic life coaching package

Your coaching package is the foundation of your business—it’s how you show clients the value you’ll provide and what they can expect. A clear, well-designed package builds trust and helps clients understand the transformation you’ll guide them through.

Your package should include: 

• How you’ll help clients: What specific outcomes will they achieve?
• What they can expect: Lay out the structure and deliverables, like the number of sessions and the support you’ll provide.

If you’re just starting out, a three-month coaching program priced at $1,500 is a solid place to begin. This timeframe allows enough room for meaningful progress without overwhelming you or your clients.

As you gain experience and collect testimonials, you can gradually increase your rates. In fact, many of my students charge over $5,000 for their coaching packages after refining their skills and building credibility.

For more on building a great coaching package, check out this video:

Once your package is ready, it’s time to find your first clients—and start helping them transform their lives. Let’s explore that next.

5. Find your first client

Finding your first coaching client can feel like a big hurdle, but it’s easier than you think when you take the right steps. 

The key? Focus on building trust and making genuine connections.

Here are three effective strategies to get started:

• Your network: Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues, and let them know about your coaching services. Even if they’re not your ideal clients, they might know someone who is and give you a referral.
• Social media: Join online communities where your target clients hang out, like TikTok, Instagram, or LinkedIn. The key is to build trust and genuine connections. Join discussions, answer questions, and offer valuable insights. I cover more about using social media for your coaching business in this article.
• Podcasts: Podcasts are a powerful way to connect with potential clients. Look for podcasts that cater to your audience, and pitch yourself as a guest. Sharing your story and expertise not only builds trust but positions you as a thought leader in your niche.

If you’re still unsure where to start, watch my video on landing your first paying clients:

Getting your first client is a big milestone—but it’s just the beginning. To truly succeed, you’ll need to deliver a transformational experience that keeps clients coming back. Let’s dive into how to do that next.

6. Work with your clients

Once you’ve landed your first clients, it’s time to deliver a coaching experience that creates real transformation. 

Here’s a simple, step-by-step process to guide you:

Step 1: Define your client’s main goal

Start by helping your client identify their primary objective. Whether it’s reducing stress, improving relationships, or achieving a career transition, having a clear goal gives your sessions purpose and focus.

Step 2: Break the goal into milestones 

Next, divide the main goal into smaller, actionable milestones. These milestones act as stepping stones, making the process feel less overwhelming while keeping your client motivated as they see consistent progress.

Step 3: Break milestones into subgoals

Finally, take each milestone and break it down into even smaller, manageable subgoals. Each subgoal represents something you can tackle together during a coaching session. These small wins build momentum and bring your client closer to their ultimate goal.

FAQs about holistic life coaching

How much does a holistic life coach make?

While specific stats on holistic life coach salaries are limited, the International Coaching Federation (ICF) reports that the average salary for life coaches in the US is $67,800 per year. However, as a self-employed coach, your income potential is much higher because you set your own rates. Many of my clients earn six-figure and even multiple-six-figure incomes in similar coaching niches.

How long does it take to become a holistic life coach?

The timeline depends on whether you decide to become a certified holistic life coach. Program lengths vary from a few weeks to several months. That said, you don’t need a certification to start coaching. Coaching is a skill best learned through practice, which is why I encourage new coaches to start coaching as soon as possible.

How much does a holistic coach certification cost?

The cost of a holistic life coach certification can range from $500 to over $5,000. For example, one of the ICF-accredited certifications listed above costs $3,850. The price varies based on the program’s content, duration, and level of support – the best program for you should fit both your goals and budget.

Next steps

And that’s how you become a holistic life coach!

So, are you ready to start a holistic life coaching business that gives you freedom, fulfillment, and the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives?

You absolutely can. But let’s be honest—figuring out the business side of things can feel overwhelming. You might be wondering, Where do I start? What if I make a mistake? You’re not alone.

I know exactly how that feels. When I first started, I spent years spinning my wheels, trying to piece it all together—failing, learning, and figuring things out the hard way.

That’s why I created something I wish I’d had back then: A proven roadmap. It’s a training program called Employee to Entrepreneur (ETE), and it’s packed with everything I’ve learned from helping over 3,000 new coaches successfully launch their businesses.

To make it even easier for you to take the first step, I’ve put together a FREE PDF that breaks down the essentials of building a successful coaching business from scratch.

It doesn’t matter if you’re still working on your holistic life coach certification or just exploring coaching for the first time—this guide will show you how to create a business that works for you, step by step.

Get it now!

Read more:

How to Start a Life Coaching Business

How to Become a Life Purpose Coach

The Truth About Life Coaching

How to Become a Life Design Coach