Brain-Based Coaching Certificate®

The Problem David Rock Indentified

In the late 1990s, Dr. David Rock recognised a fundamental gap in coaching: professionals were helping leaders change behaviour, but no one could explain why certain approaches consistently worked while others failed.

Traditional coaching relied on intuition and experience. There was no evidence base. No replicable methodology. Just "feel" and hope.

The Breakthrough

Rock pioneered the integration of neuroscience into coaching, creating Results Coaching™ in 1998. His insight: the language of coaching—setting goals, making connections, becoming aware, seeking breakthroughs—aligns with the brain’s natural way of learning, adapting, and responding to change.

For the first time, coaches could understand not just what to do, but why it worked at a neurological level.

From Theory to Global Practice

Over 25 years, Dr. David Rock and the NeuroLeadership Institute team didn’t just theorise—they field-tested this methodology with leaders in the world’s most demanding organisations.

The Result: a proven, replicable coaching framework recognised as one of the most respected training experiences in the coaching profession.

Brain-Based Conversation Skills®

Master foundational coaching skills and earn your standalone BBCS digital badge.

Brain-Based Coaching Toolkit®

Apply advanced tools, complete mentoring, and embed ICF competencies. (Requires BBCS)

Brain-Based Coaching Certificate®

Earn the full ICF Level 1 Certificate by completing both BBCS and BBCT.

Live Virtual Sessions

• ✓ Interactive learning with expert facilitators
• ✓ Real-time practice and application
• ✓ Scheduled for EMEA time zones
• ✓ Designed to fit around full-time work

Peer Coaching Practice

• ✓ Apply skills with structured feedback
• ✓ Practice throughout the programme
• ✓ Build confidence in real scenarios
• ✓ Learn from diverse perspectives

Expert Mentoring (BBCT)

• ✓ 10 hours with ICF-certified coaches
• ✓ Individual and group sessions
• ✓ Personalised skill development
• ✓ ICF Level 1 performance assessment

Online Learning Platform

• ✓Interactive modules and multimedia.
• ✓Exercises to deepen insights
• ✓Download resources before platform closes—yours to keep
• ✓Self-paced learning with schedule & support

Brain-Based Conversation Skills® (BBCS)

Master the fundamentals of neuroscience-driven coaching conversations

Standalone course or first step toward full certification

Questions about which path is right for you? Speak with our Education Team

Brain-Based Coaching Certificate (BBCC)

Complete ICF Level 1 certification: BBCS + Brain-Based Coaching Toolkit

✓ Key Outcome: Eligible for ICF ACC Credential

"I feel privileged to have been part of this programme. I learned so much about the brain and how it impacts our behaviour and decision making. I would highly recommend the NeuroLeadership Institute to anyone interested in learning about coaching and how it can be used to enhance performance and productivity in the workplace. NLI sets itself apart by providing a more effective and engaging coaching experience."

"It was an amazing experience! Expect new material. Expect to shift gears quickly and learn new things. Prepare to be surprised at how quickly you will learn to dance with the material and begin doing great things with it. You will go away with something great!"

"Being a change agent makes it obvious how important it is to understand the intricacies of the brain in order to support positive cognition leading to the right behaviour. I am a far better listener, more open and positive in my conversations and really good at asking the right questions. I couldn't imagine my work without those brain friendly skills any more. The outcomes prove it."

How is this different from other ICF-accredited programmes?

You'll learn why coaching techniques work, not just how to use them. Our scientific grounding gives you a replicable, evidence-based framework backed by over 20 years of neuroscience research. This creates confidence in your coaching and credibility with clients—particularly analytical leaders who value research-backed methods over intuition alone. You'll have a reliable framework for facilitating breakthroughs, not just intuition and chance. Want to see how the frameworks work in practice? Speak with our Education Team.

What results can I expect after completing the programme?

Graduates report greater confidence leading coaching conversations, stronger client relationships, and a structured approach to facilitating insights. You'll join a global community of 25,000+ professionals using these frameworks with leaders across industries—from startups to Fortune 500 companies. The programme prepares you to pursue ICF credentials and establishes you with a distinctive, neuroscience-backed methodology that's increasingly valued in professional coaching. Want to hear directly from graduates? Ask our Education Team for testimonials and success stories.

Can I do this whilst working full-time?

Absolutely. The programme combines live sessions scheduled for EMEA time zones (GMT/BST) with flexible online self-study that fits around your schedule. Most of our participants complete the programme while working full-time, and many are senior leaders balancing significant professional responsibilities. Need to discuss your specific schedule? Our Education Team can walk you through the timing for upcoming cohorts.

Do I need prior coaching experience to enrol?

No prior experience required. The programme is designed for both aspiring coaches taking their first professional step and experienced practitioners looking to deepen their expertise with neuroscience-backed frameworks. Whether you're exploring coaching as a career change or enhancing your leadership toolkit, you'll gain immediately applicable skills with structured guidance and support throughout. Not sure if this is right for your background? Speak with our Education Team—they can help you assess fit.

What are the completion requirements?

You'll attend live sessions and complete self-study modules with progress tracking to keep you on target. For the full certificate, you'll gain hands-on experience through 15 coaching practice hours supported by 6 mentor coaching sessions and a final performance evaluation—all designed to build your confidence and competence before you complete the programme. You'll have 6 months after your final session to finish these practical components at your own pace, with support available throughout. Questions about the structure? Contact our Education Team for a detailed breakdown.

Can I start with the core programme and upgrade later?

Yes, though most participants enrol directly in the full certificate programme. The core programme is a standalone course that comes with its own ICF-accredited certificate worth 30 credits, and any completed work counts toward the full programme if you choose to upgrade. This gives you flexibility to start where you're comfortable and expand your commitment as you experience the value firsthand. Deciding between options? Our Education Team can help you choose the right path for your goals.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. Payment plans are available in the EMEA region for the full certificate, with 3 and 6 month options to make the investment more manageable. Ready to get started? Contact the Education Team to discuss your options and secure your place in an upcoming cohort.