NeuroLeadership Institute Education

"Three things that blew my mind: creating space for breathing, thinking and feeling; listening without judgment; and asking better questions. Turns out I don't need all the answers — I just need to ask the right ones."

"Now, when someone asks me to recommend a coaching program, I will confidently point them to this one. I completed my journey with more knowledge, clarity, and tools to lead with the brain in mind."

"The Foundations in NeuroLeadership programme enabled me to convert my fascination with neuroscience into practical knowledge and tools that have improved my professional and personal interactions and my work results. I would recommend this programme to those interested in science-based ways to optimise your brain capacity and the performance of others."

"Brain-Based Conversation Skills is one of the best courses I have completed in my career. It has changed my whole approach."

"I finished my final course with the NeuroLeadership Institute and reflected on what I would say to the person who started this program. Without hesitation: I'm so proud of you. The key to moving forward is offering yourself grace, then taking the lead in your own growth."

"NLI's training provided me with all the skills needed to improve my work. I am a far better listener, more open and positive in my conversations. I could not imagine my work without those brain-friendly skills any more."

"If you have had a conversation with me over the past six months and heard me reference SCARF, amygdala hijacking, or reappraisal, now you know why. As a proud nerd and continuous learner, I highly recommend this program."

"I gained a huge amount of knowledge and really understand the fundamentals of how neuroscience works. It has elevated the way I have coaching conversations."

The NeuroLeadership Institute (NLI) is a global research and education organization founded by Dr. David Rock in 1998. NLI translates neuroscience research into practical frameworks for coaching, leadership development, and organizational change. Over 25 years, NLI has trained more than 25,000 professionals across 30 countries, and its programs are trusted by organizations including Microsoft, KPMG, Adobe, and Roche. Learn more about NLI.

Brain-Based Coaching applies contemporary neuroscience research to the coaching conversation, giving coaches a deeper understanding of how the brain responds to change, feedback, and goal-setting. Built on Dr. David Rock's Results Coaching™ methodology and refined over 25 years, it is a practical, evidence-based approach that leads to more effective and lasting outcomes for clients — and one that gives coaches real credibility with professionals who value evidence over intuition. Explore the Brain-Based Coaching programs.

Our programs are designed for a wide range of professionals seeking rigorous, science-backed development. This includes: professional coaches building or formalizing their practice; HR and L&D practitioners looking to bring a neuroscience grounding to their work; organizational development consultants; leaders who coach their teams as part of their role; facilitators and trainers seeking more brain-friendly approaches to learning design; and individuals considering a career move into professional coaching or leadership development. No prior coaching or neuroscience background is required. Connect with our education team to find the right program for your goals.

Yes. Our Brain-Based Coaching Certificate® program is accredited by the ICF as a Level 1 Provider. Participants can also earn Continuing Coach Education (CCE) credits toward existing credentials. Our programs are also recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® and SHRM-SCP® recertification. Accreditation details vary by program — speak with our education team to confirm which qualification your chosen program leads to.

Our open-cohort North America programs are delivered virtually, combining live online sessions scheduled for North American time zones with interactive learning platform content. Participants join from across the U.S. and Canada. Contact our education team to learn more.

No prior knowledge of neuroscience is required. Our programs build scientific understanding progressively through practical application, so participants develop confidence with the material as they go. The same is true for coaching experience. Some participants join with years of practice, while others are entirely new to coaching. Our education team can help you determine the right starting point based on your background and goals.

That depends on your goals and experience. Brain-Based Conversation Skills (BBCS) is a strong starting point for most people: it can be taken as a standalone course or as the foundation of the full Brain-Based Coaching Certificate (BBCC). The Certificate in the Foundations of NeuroLeadership (CFN) suits leaders and HR professionals seeking a broader grounding in applied neuroscience. The Brain-Based Design & Facilitation program is designed for professionals seeking to enhance their approach to learning design and delivery, whether in corporate training, education, or organizational development. Speak with our education team for a no-obligation conversation about the right path for you.

Yes. All programs are designed to fit around a working schedule, combining live online sessions with flexible self-study and, on some programs, an interactive learning platform. Programs are offered in various formats to accommodate busy professional schedules. Most participants complete their programs alongside full-time professional roles. Get in touch to discuss upcoming cohort timing and find a schedule that works for you.