Asking your employer to support your IHPC Certification

Helping professionals can make a strong case for employer-sponsored coaching certification by highlighting the direct benefits to their organization. They should emphasize how coaching enhances communication, leadership, and client engagement, leading to improved outcomes and increased workplace efficiency. Framing the certification as professional development that aligns with the organization’s mission—whether in social work, healthcare, or education—can demonstrate its value. Additionally, presenting research or case studies on how coaching improves employee retention, reduces burnout, and enhances service delivery can strengthen the request. Employees should also explore funding options such as professional development budgets, tuition reimbursement programs, or grants. By positioning coaching certification as an investment in both the employee and the organization, they increase the likelihood of employer support.

Use our sample elevator pitch and talking points to request funding from your employer: 

Elevator Pitch 

Hi [Supervisor’s Name], I’d like to share a professional development opportunity that aligns with our mission and the challenges we face in helping professions. I hope to enroll in the Integrated Helping Professional Coach (IHPC) certification through Hitchcock & Curington Coaching. It’s a 12-week, 61-hour program designed specifically for professionals like us—those working in social work, education, and healthcare.

It is unique in integrating coaching skills like deep listening, strategic goal-setting, and reflective practice into our existing roles. This training helps reduce burnout, strengthens leadership, and equips me to offer coaching to clients and colleagues alike. It’s facilitated by licensed social workers and certified coaches, and completing it positions me to pursue the International Coaching Federation’s ACC credential. With a cost of $2,500, it’s a smart investment in both my growth and the organization’s outcomes. I’d love to explore how we might use professional development or tuition funds to support this.

Talking Points 

What is the Integrated Helping Professional Coach (IHPC) Certification Program?

  • A 12-week coaching certification designed for helping professionals
  • Delivered by licensed social workers and ACC-certified coaches
  • 61 hours total: 4 hours/week plus three 4-hour Saturdays
  • Cost: $2,500

Why the IHPC Certification is valuable for Helping Professionals?

  • Designed specifically for social workers, educators, and healthcare providers
  • Blends coaching with ethical, relational, and systems-based approaches
  • Enhances communication, leadership, and client engagement
  • Adds a versatile, transferable skill set to existing practice
  • Encourages reflective practice and self-awareness
  • Supports personal growth while reducing burnout
  • Prepares participants to offer coaching services internally or externally
  • Enables eligibility for the ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential

How can the IHPC Certification help your Organization?

  • Strengthens internal leadership and communication
  • Supports team development and peer mentoring
  • Improves service delivery and client outcomes
  • Helps retain high-performing staff by investing in their growth
  • Offers a cost-effective way to meet professional development goals