Positive human potential
The anthropological foundation of the method: identifying, developing and transforming each individual's specific potentialities and vocation into practical competencies and talents.
Humanistic Coaching Diploma · 25 years in practice · Starts October 2026
Become a professional coach with a method that harmonises performance and self-realisation.
The Humanistic Coaching School has been training professional coaches since 2004. The Diploma is our core training programme — an intensive fourteen-day course that provides a complete coaching framework. Accredited by AICP (Italian Association of Professional Coaches), it also forms part of the ICF Level 2 pathway.
The Humanistic Coaching difference
Performance and growth go hand in hand.
Traditional coaching trains individuals to optimise performance in pursuit of a goal. Humanistic Coaching, by contrast, harmonises performance with self-realisation, to cultivate happier lives. A seemingly subtle yet profound distinction — it changes the relationship, transforms the conversation, and elevates the outcome.
We cultivate positive human potential
Every individual possesses unique positive potential. The coach supports its development, transforming it into tangible competencies to achieve concrete goals.
We place self-realisation above performance
Performance without self-realisation is unsustainable. When coaching starts with values, performance lasts.
Humanist philosophy, scientifically grounded
A rigorous approach rooted in scientific knowledge. A structured professional training programme.
Twenty-five years in practice
Developed by Luca Stanchieri and refined through 25 years of practice in the field, including delivery of 44 Diploma courses.
The coaching framework
A comprehensive method.
The Diploma provides a complete coaching framework. Learning takes place progressively throughout the programme, with participants applying the method to their own personal development before using it with others.
The coaching compass
The coach's navigation tool in the conversation: where we are, where we want to go, what is driving the process — working on values, vocation and goals.
The Alpha and Omega functions
The starting point (Alpha) and endpoint (Omega) of the coaching process; a structure that teaches how to hold the thread of a session without losing depth.
The three core paradigms
Building on strengths, an affirmative approach, and neuroplasticity — the three paradigms that shape both the method and the coaching relationship.
What you will take away from the Diploma
Six things that will stay with you for life.
01
A practical method
A complete framework for guiding the coaching conversation: theory, tools and exercises. You will learn how to navigate every stage of a coaching session.
02
The 8 ICF core competencies
The internationally recognised core competencies, integrated into the Humanistic Coaching method. A path to ICF ACC, PCC and MCC credentials.
03
Your potentialities, developed
A coach's work starts from who they are. During the Diploma, each participant trains their own specific potentialities and develops their own coaching style.
04
A recognised qualification
The Professional Coaching Diploma provides access to AICP membership and to the ICF Level 2 pathway through the Percorso d'Eccellenza.
05
A professional community
An active network of more than 1,800 humanistic coaches trained over 22 years, with the opportunity to build collaborations with the school.
06
A new way of engaging with others
The method provides tools that change how we engage with others — as a coach, parent, manager or teacher — beyond professional practice and into everyday life.
Programme
Fourteen training days. One complete framework.
80 hours of online training (Zoom) + 10 hours of practice between participants + 40 hours of independent study. Learning takes place through teaching, demonstrations and active participation. Places are limited to 25 participants per class.
01
Foundations of Humanistic Coaching and human potential
The history of coaching and the foundational principles of humanist anthropology and philosophy.
02
Core sentiments and forms of happiness
Core sentiments and forms of happiness as frameworks for analysing human potential.
03
Potentialities, powers, competencies, talents
How to recognise human potential, develop it, and transform it into powers, competencies and talents.
04
The coaching relationship and the Alpha function
Establishing the framework and the relationship; conducting the conversation; analysing the starting point (Alpha): problem, paradigms, expressed and unexpressed potentialities.
05
Practical sessions
Supervised coaching sessions with tutor feedback.
06
Paradigms
Identifying, reflecting back, and evaluating paradigms.
07
The focus: from Alpha to Omega
From the starting point to the desired outcome: shifting paradigms and envisioning the future.
08
Practical sessions
Supervised coaching sessions with tutor feedback.
09
Goals
Setting goals to reach the Omega function.
10
Practical sessions
Supervised coaching sessions with tutor feedback.
11
Action plans
Strategic action planning, including time management, flow and self-efficacy.
12
Exercises and obstacles
When planning meets reality: exercises, and internal and external obstacles.
13
ICF and AICP core competencies · code of ethics
The 8 core competencies in action, and the code of ethics.
14
Practical sessions · final exam and feedback
Supervised practice, then a written and multiple-choice exam followed by tutor feedback.
The founder
Luca Stanchieri, Founder of the method.
Psychologist, philosopher and coach, Luca Stanchieri founded Humanistic Coaching in 2004 as the practical application of a millennia-old Humanist tradition — first represented by Socrates — to individuals, relationships and contexts.
He is Academic Director of the Diploma and supervisor of the advanced programmes, co-founder of AICP, and holds PCC accreditation from the International Coaching Federation.
His work and ongoing research give rise to the method, and are reflected in his books, articles and teaching. The Diploma brings this thinking together into a practical coaching framework.
PsychologistPCC ICF18 books · FrancoAngeliAICP co-founder25 years in practice
Course tutors
Professional coaches, each with their own practice.
The Diploma is delivered by coaches who have built their own coaching practices — in life, teen, corporate, medical and sport coaching — using the Humanistic Coaching method.
Ruth Johnson
Humanistic Coach
Luna Tovaglieri
Humanistic Coach
Twenty-two years of training
An innovative practice, rooted in an ancient cultural tradition.
1,800
Professional coaches trained by the school since 2004
44
Diploma courses delivered in Rome, Milan and online
18
Books by founder Luca Stanchieri, published by FrancoAngeli
11
Post-Diploma specialisations for professional coaches
"Without their support and expertise, my life today would be different — less rich and less rewarding." Stefano · Sport Coach (Matteo Berrettini)
What our participants say
Diploma graduates now working as coaches.
"
A truly illuminating training experience. The quality of teaching is excellent: the tutors genuinely showed me how to use the method in practice. Even outside the classroom, I could always ask for clarification. CristinaLife & Hospitality Coach, former Hospitality Manager
"
The Diploma gave me the knowledge to discover and train my potentialities. It provided the practical tools to turn a deep interest in human beings into a profession. CristianaHumanistic Coach, former Store Manager and Trainer
"
The word 'Humanistic' is not a marketing label: it reflects a deep trust in human potential and in the natural inclination towards the good. For me, a coach can only start from here. ElenaProduct Services Manager
"
One of the best decisions of my life. The teaching is of a very high standard, rich in cultural insight and personal and professional development. The passion for learning brought back energies I thought I had lost. StefanoMindset Coach; Sport Coach (Matteo Berrettini)
Honesty before enrolment
The Diploma is a serious commitment — and it's important to understand whether it is right for you.
The Diploma trains professional coaches through a structured method. It is not for everyone: a programme of this intensity only works with the right motivation.
It is for you if…
- You want to become a professional coach and are looking for a comprehensive, accredited and recognised training programme.
- You are a manager, HR professional, teacher, sports coach, doctor or parent, and you want to bring coaching into your work.
- You are a psychologist, counsellor or trainer looking for an additional method that aligns with your existing practice.
- You have an established career behind you and are ready to start a new professional path.
- You are looking for a structured method and learning pathway rather than slogans or shortcuts.
- You believe that every human being has an innate positive potential that can be developed.
It is not for you if…
- You are looking for a quick certification to add to your professional profile.
- You want to become a guru, motivational speaker or self-help influencer.
- You are looking for income guarantees. We do not make them, and never have — regardless of your passion or vocation for the profession.
- You see coaching as low-cost therapy or a substitute for psychological work.
- You are looking for a ready-made "signature method". Humanistic coaches start with the method and build their own practice from it — in that order.
Frequently asked questions
Questions you may have.
Do I need prior coaching experience to enrol?
No. The Diploma is designed as an entry-level programme. You will need an upper-secondary qualification (equivalent to UK A-level standard / US high-school diploma) or at least five years in employment. We may also arrange a brief introductory call to ensure the programme is aligned with your expectations.
How does the online format work? Is it equivalent to attending in person?
Yes. Training online takes place live on Zoom and follows the same programme. Small-group exercises are conducted in breakout rooms. The learning experience is equally intensive.
What will I get at the end of the Diploma?
You will receive the school's Professional Coaching Diploma, which allows you to apply for AICP membership. For International Coaching Federation accreditation (ACC, PCC or MCC), the Diploma is the first step in the ICF Level 2 pathway through the Percorso d'Eccellenza.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. The programme fee can be paid in three instalments. The two fee levels (Earlybird and Full fee) depend on when you enrol, not on how you choose to pay.
Can my employer fund the programme?
Yes. If you are employed or hold a management position, your organisation may be able to access funding through one of the Italian interprofessional training funds. We can help you explore the options with your HR department.
What happens if I miss a training day?
The training days are designed as a sequence, each building on the previous one, so missing a day means missing part of that progression. In exceptional circumstances it may be possible to make up the session on a future course. If you anticipate a scheduling conflict, please discuss it with us during your introductory conversation.
I am a psychologist. Will the Diploma overlap or conflict with my existing practice?
No. Humanistic Coaching makes a clear distinction between coaching and psychotherapy: coaches train potential, they do not provide treatment. Many psychologists who have completed the Diploma use coaching alongside their clinical work in non-clinical settings. The method focuses on potential, not pathology.
Can I start working as a coach straight after the Diploma?
Technically, yes: the Diploma and AICP membership provide the foundations to begin practising. As with any profession, building a successful practice takes time, experience and positioning, so we also offer a dedicated post-Diploma programme to support graduates.
Fees and payment
Two fee levels, based on when you enrol.
Payment can be made in full at the time of enrolment or in three instalments. Employers may be able to access funding through Interprofessional Training Funds (see below).
Corporate funding
Italian companies can check whether funding is available through their Interprofessional Training Fund, including Fondimpresa, Fondirigenti, Fondo Dirigenti PMI, Fonditalia and Fon.Coop.
Locations and start dates
Rome, Milan, online — including in English.
The same programme, method and teaching team. Choose the format that works best for your schedule.
Rome — in person
3 October 2026
Via degli Scipioni 191
Milan — in person
10 October 2026
Spazio Pin · Repubblica
Online — Zoom
3 October 2026
Live classroom
English-language course — online
24 October 2026
Delivered in English
Receive the complete list of training dates for your chosen format. Request the full schedule →
Start here
Become a professional humanistic coach, and train people to achieve a happier life.
Enrol on the October 2026 Diploma, or book an introductory call with our coaches. We will respond within 24 working hours.
info@scuoladicoaching.it · (+39) 06 39031418 · Places are limited to 25 participants per class.