Our teacher Judith Wolterink is offering a special mentor coaching trajectory this summer. Normally, the required 10 hours of mentor coaching are spread over a period of at least five months. For summer 2026, Judith is offering an accelerated trajectory, enabling you to submit your recordings as early as September or October. Upon successful completion, you could achieve your international ICF accreditation before the end of 2026.

ACC Alumni also benefit from a €250 discount on this trajectory.

For more information about the mentor coaching packages and pricing, please visit this page. If you would like to learn more or enrol, please contact Judith directly. Please note that all arrangements, agreements, and payments are made directly with her and are not administered by ACC.

Het bericht Accelerated Mentor Coaching Trajectory for Your ICF Certification verscheen eerst op Academy for Coaching and Counselling.

For over 30 years, we have been the leading training institute for coaches and counsellors in the Netherlands and internationally. The ACC offers training programmes in which people discover and develop their own talents, and learn to guide others in their process. During our online event our teachers and study adviser will be on hand to answer your questions.

What to expect during our online session:

• Receive information about all our coaching and counselling training programmes and modules.
• Get informed about our accreditations and recognitions.
• Discover what can you achieve with our education.
• Meet our teachers and staff.
• Receive personalised advice from our study adviser.

Participation is free of charge.
Would you like to attend this session? Click here to sign up.

Het bericht Register for our Online Information Session on Tuesday 1 September verscheen eerst op Academy for Coaching and Counselling.

For 30 years, we have been the leading training institute for coaches and counsellors in the Netherlands and internationally. The ACC offers training programmes in which people discover and develop their own talents, and learn to guide others in their process.

During these events, our teachers, alumni and study adviser will be on hand to answer your questions. You can sign up for one of the following sessions:

• Saturday 6 June 2026 – Open day in Utrecht
• Thursday 11 June 2026 – Online session via Zoom

What to expect during our open days:

• Receive information about all our coaching and counselling training programmes.
• Get informed about our accreditations and recognitions.
• Discover what can you achieve with our education.
• Meet our team, teachers, and alumni.
• View our course materials.
• Receive personalised advice from our study adviser.

Participation is free of charge.
Would you like to attend? Click here for the overview of open days.

Het bericht Register for one of our open days in June 2026 verscheen eerst op Academy for Coaching and Counselling.

The development of coaching/counselling and the ACC

This year, the Academie voor Coaching and Counselling (ACC) celebrates its 30th anniversary. A special milestone and a meaningful moment to reflect on where we come from, what drives us, and how the ACC has evolved alongside the profession of coaching and counselling over the past three decades.

30 years of coaching and counselling: from listening to meaningful development

When the ACC was founded in 1996, it entered into a professional field that was still very much developing. Coaching and counselling were still in the early stages of becoming independent professions. What we now consider to be a professional discipline was still a relatively young and new practice, shaped by insights from the field of psychology and only gradually emerging within organisations.

From that very beginning, one principle has always been central within the ACC: awareness. We believe in a world in which people, guided by a conscious and positive outlook on life, use their talents to bring out the best in themselves and in others.

Over the past 30 years, this principle has become increasingly important. Society has become faster, more complex, and often more demanding. People are faced with more choices than ever before. Many are searching for direction, meaning and balance. It is precisely in such a world that the importance of coaches and counsellors continues to grow: professionals who create space for reflection, insight and self-development.

Awareness is the foundation of personal growth. When people become aware of what truly matters to them, a space opens up to make choices that align more closely with who they really are.

• What is your personal mission?
• What talents do you possess?
• What gives your life meaning?
• What prevents you from achieving your goals and living a meaningful life?

Over the past 30 years, these questions have become increasingly important for many people. At the same time, seeking guidance in finding answers to them has become far more common. Where people once mainly turned to professional support for more serious psychological difficulties, today many more people seek guidance and mental support in a broader sense.

Coaching and counselling have grown significantly in popularity because they offer accessible and meaningful support in exploring questions like the above. Rather than providing ready-made answers, they help people gain insight, develop personally and break through unhelpful patterns.

To understand where the profession stands today, it is helpful to look back at its origins.

The 1950s: Carl Rogers, founder of counselling

The foundations of counselling lie in the work of Carl Rogers, who introduced a fundamentally different approach to guidance and therapy in the 1950s. Rather than seeing the therapist as the expert with the answers, Rogers placed the individual at the centre of the process. He believed that every person has an innate capacity for growth, provided that the right conditions are present: empathy, authenticity and unconditional acceptance.

At the time, this mainly meant creating space. Conversations took place in a calm and supportive environment in which the counsellor’s role was primarily to listen and help people explore their own thoughts and feelings. Not directing, not fixing, but simply being present. It was an approach based on a deep trust in people’s ability to grow and develop themselves.

The 1990s: coaching versus therapy

From the 1980s and 1990s onwards, coaching gradually began to move away from its therapeutic roots and found its place within organisations and businesses. Influenced by pioneers such as John Whitmore, coaching evolved into a more goal-oriented and performance-focused approach. Conversations became more practical, shorter and increasingly focused on achieving results.

Models such as the GROW model provided structure, and coaching became a widely used tool for improving effectiveness in areas such as leadership, communication and performance.

The start of the ACC in 1996

When the ACC was founded in 1996, the profession was exactly at this turning point. Coaching was growing rapidly, but its direction had not yet been fully defined. Would it develop mainly into a collection of techniques focused on performance, or would there still be room for a deeper approach to human development?

From the beginning, the ACC consciously chose the latter. Inspired by the vision of Carl Rogers, the ACC continued to place the person as a whole at the centre. Development was seen not simply as achieving goals, but as a process of awareness in which mind, heart and action are connected. At a time when coaching focused heavily on models and interventions, the ACC placed its emphasis on the quality of the human encounter

In the years that followed, coaching evolved into a mature profession. Training programmes became more professional, the number of coaches grew, and the field itself expanded considerably. At the same time, the focus within the profession began to shift. Whereas techniques and methodologies had once been at the forefront, increasing attention was given to the personal development of the coach. Gradually, it became clear that a coach works with the most important instrument of all: themselves.

From doing to being

This marked a shift from “doing” to “being”. From applying models to developing presence. From giving advice to guiding processes of learning and awareness. In many ways, the profession moved closer once again to its origins and to the principles of Carl Rogers, in which the quality of the relationship itself is essential for genuine change.

The way we understand people has also shifted. Over recent decades, there has been growing recognition that development is not purely a mental process. Thinking, feeling and the body are deeply interconnected. In a society that is strongly focused on performance and analysis, people can easily lose touch with their intuition, emotions and physical signals. Modern coaching and counselling increasingly make space for this broader and more integrated view of human development.

Meanwhile, the world in which we live and work has changed dramatically. Careers have become less predictable, the pressure to keep developing has increased, and themes such as stress, balance and purpose have become far more prominent. The coaching profession evolved alongside these developments. Whereas coaching once focused mainly on improving effectiveness, today it is equally concerned with direction, purpose and resilience.

The common thread: creating space to be fully human

After 30 years of development, one insight has become increasingly clear: at its core, coaching and counselling are not about techniques or models, but about the human encounter. About creating a space in which people can explore who they are, continue to grow, and reconnect with their own direction in life.

This appears to be the common thread throughout the years: real development takes place where people are given the space to be fully human.

And that has been the foundation of the ACC ever since 1996. The ACC consciously combines coaching, counselling and personal development: discovering who you are, recognising the patterns that may hold you back, and at the same time working towards meaningful goals and personal growth.

For 30 years, we have remained deeply committed to this foundation, and we look forward to continuing this work for at least 30 more years to come.

Het bericht 30 years Academy for Coaching and Counselling verscheen eerst op Academy for Coaching and Counselling.

This is precisely why knowledge of mental health and psychological disorders is so important for coaches and counsellors. As a coach, you want not only to provide a safe and supportive space, but also to understand what may be happening for a client. How do you recognise signs of psychological difficulties? Where is the boundary between coaching and treatment? And when is it important to refer someone?

Mental health challenges are common

Many people experience psychological difficulties at some point in their lives. Sometimes this involves stress, overwhelm, or insecurity. In other cases, difficulties such as anxiety, depressive feelings, trauma, ADHD, or personality disorders may be present. Not every client talks about this immediately. Sometimes people themselves do not yet fully understand what is happening.

As a coach or counsellor, you can play an important role in recognising these signs. Not by making diagnoses, but by remaining attentive and recognising when a client’s question goes deeper than behaviour, work, or personal development alone.

When signs of psychological difficulties are not recognised or are insufficiently understood, there is a risk that someone may not receive the support they truly need. In some situations, guidance can unintentionally reinforce existing difficulties or work against the client. This is exactly why a basic understanding of mental health is not optional, but an important part of careful and professional practice.

Coaching is not therapy, but it does at times involve themes connected to mental health

Coaching is not therapy. That distinction matters. As a coach, you do not treat psychological disorders, nor do you take on the role of a psychologist or medical professional. At the same time, coaching conversations regularly involve themes connected to mental health. Think of stress, grief, perfectionism, insecurity, tension, avoidance, or feeling stuck in work or relationships.

With a solid foundation in mental health, you are better able to assess which questions fall within your role and when additional support may be needed. You learn to recognise signs that may point to underlying difficulties. You can also advise clients, at the right moment, to seek support from a GP, psychologist, or another appropriate professional. In this way, you remain careful in your work while staying clear about your own professional boundaries.

More knowledge leads to greater safety, depth, and quality

Knowledge of psychological difficulties helps you work with greater confidence and awareness as a practitioner. You gain a better understanding of why someone responds in a particular way, why change can sometimes feel difficult, and how tension, trauma, or anxiety may affect behaviour, motivation, and self-image.

This does not make your work heavier, but more careful and attuned. You are better able to connect with what someone needs, without pushing, directing, or explaining too quickly. Your client feels better understood, while you feel calmer, more confident, and more grounded in your professional role.

Particularly within a growing coaching field, it is this combination of professional knowledge, humanity, and self-awareness that makes the difference.

Deepen your understanding with the module Professional Coaching for Mental Health Challenges

To support coaches, counsellors and professionals working with psychological vulnerability, we developed the module Professional Coaching for Mental Health Challenges.

In this practice-oriented and theory-based module, you will learn how to support clients with psychological difficulties in a careful, empathetic, and professional way. You will gain insight into common psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, dissociation, ADHD, and personality disorders. You will also learn how to recognise signs within a coaching or counselling context, while remaining aware of the boundaries of your own professional role.

Alongside theory and practical tools, the module also focuses on your own role as a practitioner. You will learn how to maintain boundaries, discuss referral carefully when additional support is needed, and work with situations that are more complex than they first appear. Attention is also given to your own mental resilience, helping you remain grounded and aware within your work.

This module is designed for coaches, counsellors, trainers, and other practitioners who want to work with compassion, while also bringing knowledge, clarity, and professional care into their practice.

In conclusion

As a coach or counsellor, you want the best for your clients. You want to listen, support, and help people move forward. But offering good support also means understanding where your expertise begins and where it ends.

Knowledge of psychological difficulties helps you recognise that boundary. It makes you not only more knowledgeable, but also safer, more compassionate, and more trustworthy in the way you support others.

Het bericht Why understanding mental health matters for coaches and counsellors verscheen eerst op Academy for Coaching and Counselling.

For each programme, you will find the overview of starting dates per training location on the Location and dates tab. On this tab, you can download the class schedule, view the location details for each location and register for the training programme.

Are you curious about a training programmes or looking for personalised study advice? Our study advisor is here to help. Get in touch with us today and discover which course best suits your future.

In June 2026, we will once again be organising an open day and an online information session. Participation is free of charge.

Het bericht Now online: the schedules for fall 2026 verscheen eerst op Academy for Coaching and Counselling.

For more than 25 years, Lya was devoted to our institute. With great dedication, expertise, and heartfelt commitment, she made an indispensable contribution to our academy. She guided countless students in both their professional and personal growth, leaving a lasting impression through her knowledge, warmth, and keen insight. For many, she was not only a teacher, but also a mentor, a source of inspiration, and a steadfast support.

Her dedication to her profession and to the people she worked with was profound. She worked tirelessly to uphold the quality of education and to nurture the well-being and development of her students. Her influence reaches far beyond the classroom; it lives on in the work of the many professionals she helped shape and guide.

We realise that this news may bring up many emotions. Whether you knew her as a student, supervisee, client, or colleague, her passing touches us all. We wish you much strength and comfort as you process this loss.

Were You One of Lya’s Supervisees?

Lya supervised many students. If you are currently in a supervision trajectory with her, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will gladly think along with you about arranging a suitable replacement supervisor.

Update on the Farewell and Funeral of Lya Young-Afat

To honour Lya’s life and to take leave of her, there are several opportunities available should you wish to attend. This week, there are three occasions on which you may say your farewell:

1. Live Farewell Gathering (open to all)

On Thursday 5 March, from 3:00 to 4:30 PM, there will be an opportunity to say goodbye to Lya at Uitvaartcentrum Arenapoort Amsterdam Zuid-Oost (Hoorneboeg 1, 1102 BK Amsterdam). Everyone is warmly welcome.

Please note: Lya’s coffin will remain open during this gathering and will be closed afterwards.

2. Funeral Service (private, with public livestream)

The cremation will take place in a private setting on Saturday 7 March at 1:45 PM in Amsterdam. However, the service may be followed by all via a livestream.

Livestream link: https://live-ceremonie.nl

Ceremony ID: 156057
Password: muzq9rrvxvh3

3. Online Memorial Gathering ACC – Wednesday 4 March

ACC will host an online memorial gathering via Zoom on Wednesday evening, 4 March, from 7:00 to 8:00 PM. All who feel the need for support, wish to speak with others, or would like to share memories of Lya are most welcome to attend.

It is no longer possible to register for the Online Memorial Gathering.

We wish everyone much strength and comfort in coping with this heartbreaking news and in mourning the loss of Lya.

Het bericht In memoriam teacher Lya Young-Afat verscheen eerst op Academy for Coaching and Counselling.

Friday 20 March 2026
Coaching and Counselling Year 1 – Utrecht

Saturday 21 March 2026
Coaching and Counselling Year 1 – Amsterdam
Coaching and Counselling Year 2 – Amsterdam

Saturday 28 March 2026
Coaching and Counselling Year 2 – Online

Friday 10 April 2026
Coaching and Counselling Year 1 – Online

Saturday 11 April 2026
Coaching and Counselling Year 1 – Online

On our website, on the ‘Location and dates’ tab, you will find an overview of the starting dates for each training programme. Here you can download the class schedules, discover the class locations and register for the programme.

Het bericht Register now for a training programme starting in spring 2026 verscheen eerst op Academy for Coaching and Counselling.

Self-confidence as a starting point

Self-confidence is the belief in one’s own ability. It largely shapes how someone thinks, feels and behaves. A client with low self-confidence may doubt their decisions, struggle to set boundaries or continually question themselves. In coaching, strengthening this confidence is essential if clients are to move forward with courage.

What can you do as a coach?

• Acknowledge small successes: Highlight what is going well, even if it seems minor. This helps clients recognise their own strengths.
• Use scaling questions: For example, “On a scale of 1 to 10, how confident do you feel about this?” Then explore together what would help move that number up by one point.
• Reflect and affirm: Name the qualities you observe, even if the client cannot yet see them. “What stands out to me is that you did take the step to be here today.”

Wellbeing: creating space for growth

Where self-confidence influences doing, wellbeing relates to being. Does someone feel safe, heard and accepted? When that foundation is present, space opens for reflection, growth and change. When it is missing, clients often remain in survival mode.

How can you support this as a coach?

• Build psychological safety: Be congruent, non-judgemental and fully present.
• Slow the pace: Allow space for emotions. “What is happening for you as you say that?”
• Work with values: Explore what truly matters to someone. Connecting to core values strengthens a sense of direction and meaning.

Self-Confidence + Wellbeing = Resilience

When people trust themselves and feel good about who they are, resilience develops: the capacity to cope with setbacks, learn from mistakes and rise again. As a coach, you support clients not only in achieving their goals, but also in finding inner calm, clarity and strength.

The next step in your development as a coach

In our Coaching and Counselling Year 1 and Year 2 programmes, you will learn how to work in depth on strengthening self-confidence and wellbeing. You will gain coaching methodologies that help clients (re)discover their strengths, explore internal barriers and move forward with greater self-awareness and calm. Because sustainable change begins from within.

Interested in our approach? Download the free trial lesson from Coaching and Counselling Year 1 and see the difference a comprehensive training can make.

Het bericht Self-confidence and wellbeing: foundations for growth in coaching verscheen eerst op Academy for Coaching and Counselling.

During the information session, you will:

• Receive information about our training programmes and modules.
• Get informed about our accreditations and recognitions, and what can you achieve with our education.
• Meet the ACC’s staff and teachers.
• Discover whether the coaching profession suits you.
• Receive advice from our study advisor.

The session will take place from 7.00 p.m. until 9.00 p.m. and participation is free of charge. Click here for more information about the event and to sign up.

Het bericht Sign up for our Online Information Session on 24 February 2026 verscheen eerst op Academy for Coaching and Counselling.