The philosophical foundation of the Adler School is rooted in the science-of-living system developed by Alfred Adler (1870-1937). Dr. Adler was a Viennese psychiatrist whose
theories were far enough ahead of their time that they continue to be considered current. Adlerian Psychology emphasizes the uniqueness of every individual and stresses the individual’s relationship with society.
Adler has been called the “grandfather of coaching.” He recognized the intricate interplay of social/cultural and family/individual life. He thought of mind and body as an integrated whole. He gave credit to people’s creativity in solving problems, even if the solution created more problems. And, most importantly, he wanted to apply his theories to everyday life, not just to subjects in a research study.
The Adler Faculty of Professional Coaching recognizes strong parallels between Adlerian principles and life coaching precepts. We highlight those congruences to provide an additional context and framework for students to consider and use in their coaching, but do not actively teach Adlerian theory in our life coach training.
Adlerian theory may be understood and remembered using the acronym “SUPER”:
- S: Social interest is a barometer of mental health, and connectedness is essential. The “S” can also be seen to stand for “service to others”.
- U: Unity of the individual. In contrast to atavistic models (such as ego/id), Adlerian theory holds the premise that there is something that unites us in some style. The whole of the person is more than the sum of his/her parts.
- P: Private logic. We don’t experience reality directly; we filter it through our beliefs, assumptions and experience.
- E: Equality. We’re not the same, but we’re equal, and equally entitled. Mutual respect and dignity are essential concepts in Adlerian thought.
- R: Reasons for our behavior. Behavior moves towards our goals, and our actions are purposeful towards those goals. Our conclusions create a pre-formed inner logic.
Adler’s Professional Coaching Certificate Program is designated by the International Coach
Federation (ICF) as an Accredited Coach Training Program.
The Adler Certification Program is the program of choice for individuals, coaches, HR professionals, OD consultants, trainers and leaders in organizations that take their life coaching roles seriously. It is ideal for the committed learner interested in any of the following benefits:
- Attaining an internationally recognized accreditation
- Learning the very latest life coaching concepts, principles and tools
- Mastering a higher level of coaching resourcefulness and people/team development skills
Upon successful completion of the Practicum, students are distinguished as an Adler Trained Coach (ATC). Upon graduation (after passing the exam) students are awarded the credential Adler Certified Professional Coach (ACPC). Graduating as an ACPC satisfies training requirements for ICF’s entry level credential (ACC – Associate Certified Coach).
Our Foundations module is “Risk Free”! – If you feel you are not able to use any of the skills you acquire in our Foundations module, and coaching is not for you, then we will refund your tuition. To be eligible, you must submit a written withdrawal form to the Registrar within seven days of completing the Foundations Module.
Adler’s Faculty of Professional Coaching stresses experiential, hands-on, applied learning.
We believe you must use the skills developed to own them. From the very first day of our Foundations course and throughout the certificate program, you will coach under the supervision of our expert
faculty, so that you will personify the coaching paradigm, and DO as well as KNOW coaching.
At Adler, our belief is that nothing can replace personal contact as an aid to learning. The Faculty’s coursework is done primarily in person at our downtown Toronto location, with teleclasses, online workshops and distance learning as supplements. Subsequent Practicum sessions are offered both in person and via a distance learning format to accommodate different needs.
As an HRPA designated partner, our in-depth coaching programs are recognized as providing each student the skills and background required to either become a life coach, or to apply a coaching approach in a variety of contexts.