CURRICULUM

Some coaching programs have set formula they use; instructing on what kind of questions to ask, which tools to use, and a specific layout of what to focus on in each session. At CAN, we believe in providing our coaches with a knowledge base and background they need to be adaptive to what the client needs in the moment. Therefore, we do not teach a specific coaching framework, instead we give our coaches the foundation to develop their coaching in their own unique ways so they can decide who and how they can best support personal growth and wellness as a coach. The course is designed in modules, each of which offers knowledge, awareness opportunities, and tools to support the development of a coach and ultimately a self-actualizing person. We use the International Coaches Federation Core Competencies and Code of Ethics in our training.

Modules

  1. Introduction to Life Coaching

  2. Introduction to Neuroscience

  3. Self, Self-Care & Self-Actualization

  4. The Power of the Mind

  5. Mindfulness & Intuition

  6. Action Planning, Goal Setting, & Visioning

  7. Professional Development

  8. Community Support

The components in the table are covered.

SUMMARIES

Module I: Introduction to Life Coaching

This first portion serves to introduce everyone to the main tenets of the course including what is life coaching and what is life coaching with the brain in mind. It also serves to introduce everyone to each other in order to begin to set a foundation for openness, communication, and trust. We discuss each of our intentions for taking this program. We go over expectations for the course, debriefing protocols, confidentiality, the basics of self-care, and the logistics. We also cover the basics of the independent study project so everyone can begin to think about his/her project.

Module 2: Introduction to Neuroscience - Brain Awareness & How the Brain Works

This module serves as an introduction to Neuroscience and Psychology as it relates to our thoughts, attention, mental health, learning & memory, and consciousness & unconsciousness. Students gain a basic understanding of neurochemistry, neurophysiology, neuroanatomy, neuroplasticity, and how the nervous system is organized during this module. This module primarily consists of lectures and discussions and will provide the basic foundation of knowledge for further modules. 

Module 3: Self, Self-Care & Self-Actualization 

This module focuses on the Self, Self Care, and Self Actualization. It involves a process of coming to better understand ourselves and becoming honest with who we are - the “good” and the "bad". We practice openness, exposure, self-acceptance, self-respect, self-awareness, and self-kindness – all in the efforts of nurturing a better relationship with ourselves. The module includes presentations of “self”. During this module we are formally introduced to the psychology, physiology, and neuroscience of stress and relaxation, therein providing a scientific and intuitive foundation for self-care in the broad sense. We also explore self-actualization and the manifestation of natural talents and gift (both spiritual and genetic). We explore the idea that self-care is a necessary part of self-actualization. We also explore development of the individual and environmental influences on the self, self care, and self actualization. 

Module 4: The Power of the Mind

This module focuses on how the human mind thinks. We explore the popular notion of positive thinking and the various ways thinking affects our mind, body, and spirit, including health. We explore how thinking cultivates a mind-body connection. We explore deeply the mind-body(-brain) connection. The field of positive psychology is introduced during this module. We also begin to formally explore the type of thinking that can lead to depression and unhappiness and begin the journey toward mindfulness, and awareness. 

Module 5: Mindfulness & Intuition 

This module focuses on the practices of mindfulness (both yoga and meditation) and intuition. We explore the concepts of being mindful in daily living and how to bring mindfulness into our relationships, including our coach-client relationships. We learn skills in mindful and active listening as a space from which to coach and work with others. We also formally explore the concepts of interconnectedness: the big picture of the interconnected among all being and the practical application of connecting with clients on a spiritual level to help them connect with themselves and develop intuition. We explore intuition and techniques to invoke intuition in relation to a mindfulness practice. Finally, we also examine the neuroscience of meditation, yoga, intuition, compassion, and empathy. 

Module 6: Action Planning, Goal Setting, & Visioning

This module primarily consists of goal setting and taking action from a point of deeply-routed interest. Value, resources, and direction is considered by using the Business Model YOU canvas to look at one’s goals and visions holistically.  This module is also where students showcase their independent projects, that have been worked on the whole term. 

Module 7: Professional Development

From the beginning of the course students are learning how to become professional life coaches, including manage their clients and develop a life coaching practice. They also learn essentials of business including basic accounting, marketing, value propositions, and customer relations.

CAN Community Weekend  

This module is a weekend event for all current students and past graduates. Students will learn community support for working as a coach through facilitated interactions with other CAN members. The content of the weekend changes from year to year and graduates are always encouraged to attend subsequent weekends.