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Become a Certified Coach

To be a strong VTS coach you must also be a skilled VTS facilitator. The 1st step in the VTS Coaching Certification process is becoming a VTS Certified Facilitator. Complete & submit your VTS Certified Facilitator application now.

Coaching is an intentional process used to support facilitators learning VTS. Certified Coaches demonstrate the capacity to create space for groups & individuals to reflect on the choices made during image discussions. Coaches guide VTS learners through a process of observation, analysis & reflection that supports the rigorous practice of learner driven discussion. As with other VTS Certification designations, professionals working with VTS Certified Coaches will benefit from expertise achieved through formal VTS training.

Pathways to Certification

There is a specific pathway of facilitation certification, training, practice & reflection required of VTS Certified Coaches. Certification is awarded to individuals that demonstrate the stance and skills of a VTS Coach as outlined in the SKILLS-BASED RUBRIC.

Facilitator Pathway image/svg+xml Certified Facilitator Attend VTSCoaching Workshop Coach at least 10 facilitators Recommended:Attend VTS CoachingWorkshop II Recommended: Coach at least five facilitators

  • Attend a VTS Coaching Workshop

    VTS Coaching Workshops are designed to skill-up coaches in the elements & environment critical to coaching VTS facilitators. Attending a Coaching Workshop is required for Certification.

  • Coach at least 10 VTS facilitators

    Reflection and practice are essential for VTS Coaches. Practice coaching VTS facilitators in both group and individual settings.

  • RECOMMENDED: Attend VTS Coaching Workshop II

    The VTS Coaching Workshop II is the next step in formal training. Coaches will practice & consider strategies that support beginner and advanced VTS facilitators.

  • RECOMMENDED: Coach 5-10 more VTS facilitators

    Reflection and practice are essential for VTS Coaches. Practice coaching VTS facilitators in both group and individual settings. With this additional training and practice, applicants will find their abilities more align with the skills outlined in the Coaching Rubric.

Application Process

In order to submit an application for VTS Certification in Coaching individuals must be VTS Certified Facilitators, have completed the VTS Coaching Workshop & lead at least 10 coaching sessions. We highly recommend that applicants attend the VTS Coaching Workshop II before submitting applications though it is not required. The Certified Coaching Rubric outlines the skills that will be assessed in your application.

  1. Become a VTS Certified Facilitator
  2. Review the VTS Certified Coach rubric
  3. Attend VTS Coaching Workshop I
  4. We recommend attendance at VTS Coaching Workshop II
  5. Record 2 different image discussions & your subsequent coaching sessions (one group coaching and one individual coaching)
  6. Complete online application & reflection questions
  7. Submit $450 fee

Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does it mean that I am a VCC?

    A VTS Certified Coach is someone who has demonstrated the awareness and skills required to create a facilitator-centered, reflective space. Like all aspects of VTS work, each of us is in a process of learning and growth. VCCs and the facilitators they coach are no different. The Certification process ensures that Certified Coaches are prepared to support the needs of the facilitators they work with. Certification endorses individuals to coach, not teach or train others in VTS methods. Certification does not expire though we encourage Coaches to continue to reflect on practice & to participate in new VTYS Coaching workshops as they become available.

  • Can I train others in VTS facilitation or coaching as a VCC?

    No. Each skill connected to VTS (facilitation, coaching and training) require specific learning experiences & practice. The knowledge, experience, and skill associated with coaching are specific to coaching, not training. VTS Professional Development programming is constantly evolving and changing to meet best practices in adult education & social justice standards.

  • How do I apply?

    First, in order to submit an application to become a VTS Certified Coach you must be a VTS Certified Facilitator.

    Once you are endorsed as a VTS Certified Facilitator, you can complete the Coaching Certification application which includes the following:
    1. Uploaded video of image discussion #1 – lead by a facilitator you will coach
    2. Uploaded video of 1:1 coaching session #1 – lead by you
    3. Uploaded video of image discussion #2 - lead by facilitator you will coach
    4. Uploaded video of group coaching session #2 – lead by you
    5. Complete written reflection questions on formal application
    6. Submit application and fees on online portal

  • What are the application questions?

    Your application response must be submitted through the Application link. We recommend preparing your answers in a separate document. Cut and paste those responses directly into the formal application online when you are ready to submit. The application questions can be found here: https://vtshome.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/PUBLIC_VTS-Certified-Coach-Application-1.pdf

  • Technical Support: How do I upload my coaching sessions to YouTube?

    How to upload video to YouTube (ADD LINK)
    Please note - the videos you upload to YouTube can be made "private". VTS will not share these videos with any outside individuals or organizations without the expressed permission of the applicant.

  • Technical Support: How do I take a video on my phone?

    Shooting video with iPhone (LINK)
    Shooting video with Android (LINK)

  • How much does it cost to apply?

    Your VTS Certification for Coaching costs $450. This fee includes a Certificate AND the fees for one re-application for VTS Coaching Certification application should you not meet standards for approval on your 1st application. You may reapply within one year of your original application.

  • How do I apply for a scholarship?

    We are committed to VTS being a tool for equity, inclusion and access. If you are interested in a scholarship, apply before you complete the VTS Certified Facilitator application. Click here to apply for a VCF scholarship (LINK)

  • What if my application doesn’t meet Certification standards?

    If the application does not meet Certification standards (ie, some skills land in the "novice" or "practiced" sections of the rubric), the applicant will receive clear feedback from VTS staff. Feedback will identify specific skills that need attention. Applicants are encouraged to lead several image discussions to focus on skills that require growth. The fee paid with the first application covers the cost of a 2nd application within 12 months. You will receive a DISCOUNT CODE with your feedback email that will waive the cost of your second application.

  • What if I cannot legally record the group in the discussions?

    Some VTS facilitators work with minors or vulnerable communities. If you cannot access video waivers for the group you typically work with we have a couple of suggestions:
    1. place the camera so it is only the facilitator (please keep in mind we need to hear the participants but it is not necessary for reviewers to see them)
    2. consider having image discussions with a different audience where privacy issues and waivers are not a concern
    Please note - the videos you upload to YouTube can be made "private". VTS will not share these videos with any outside individuals or organizations without the expressed permission of the applicant.

  • When does Certification expire?

    VTS Certification expires in 5 years. VTS professional development curricula are always evolving to maintain best practices & current mission objectives. In order to maintain the skills expected of a VTS Certified practitioner one must stay current with the VTS training. After 5 years, Certification can be renewed with the participation in the most current & advanced level of training VTS offers in Coaching. This might mean repeating a training you have already attended but we can ensure that agendas are enhanced and updated with new content to support your work as a VTS Coach.