How to Become a Relationship Coach

Hey there, coach! Thinking about becoming a relationship coach but not sure where to start? Or maybe you’ve already dipped your toes in but want to step up your game.

We get it – navigating the world of coaching can feel like a big task, but trust us, you’re in the right place.

In this post, we’re breaking down everything you need to know to kickstart your journey as a successful relationship coach and help others thrive in their connections.

Oh, and by the way, we’re Cass and Tee, the dynamic duo behind Lovely Impact – your go-to resource for all things coaching. With our years of experience in the industry, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Now, let’s dive into what it really takes to become a relationship coach!

Understanding the Role of a Relationship Coach

Let’s demystify something right away! We tend to think of relationship coaching as something that happens between romantic partners. 

However, relationship coaching breaks through the walls of couples’ coaching and has a reach way further than that. 

Think of all the relationships that exist:

• Between couples
• Within families
• Relationships that don’t exist yet (Think of singles who are ready to take the plunge but don’t know how)
• Business relationships
• Friends
• Coworkers

And… so on! Relationship coaching is for all sorts of relationships. Not just the romantic ones. 

That’s what makes a relationship coach a vital part of the community and coaching world. They help ANYONE who has a relationship that needs a little healing or restoration or improvement. 

What is Relationship Coaching?

All relationships are built on a similar foundation. You’ve probably heard this one a million times…

The key to a successful relationship is COMMUNICATION!

(It’s like listening to a broken record player. Cue the annoyed sigh!)

But why is it on repeat? Because… well…it’s the reality.

Here’s a hard truth: Even though we all know it, sometimes it doesn’t happen. 

That’s when a relationship coach comes in and uncovers the reasons why things — like communication —  aren’t happening. Sometimes it’s a lot more complicated than we think.

Here are other necessities that might get squelched in a relationship that a relationship coach might unearth and help bloom:

• Improve communication (Had to repeat it!)
• Foster conflict resolution
• Set goals
• Increase self-awareness and self-discovery
• Help clients crush bad habits and form good ones
• Improve trust within relationships
• Guide clients to build resilience
• Engineer a problem-solving mindset

Think of a relationship coach as a personal guide to uncovering the root cause of relationship problems and then — create a game plan to start playing offense and getting some relationship wins. 

What does a Relationship Coach do?

A relationship that is struggling is like a broken car. Just like a mechanic, a relationship coach takes a look at it and finds the problem. 

But there’s more to it than that, just like a mechanic, you need the right tools to get the car running again.

As a a relationship coach here are some tools you be providing to your clients so they can get their relationship engine running smoothly:

• Increase self-awareness so that issues can be easily identified: The tool here is self-awareness. If clients are more aware of what’s happening they’ll be able to spot problems that are brewing like a watch person in a fire lookout. 

• Putting the spotlight on attitude so problems can be approached better: Call it a positive mindset, growth mindset, grit, or no-Eeyore-around-here mindset. With a good mindset squared away, clients will approach problems with willingness rather than dragging their feet and avoiding problems. 

• Develop Communication: Surprise, surprise! Communication is a tool that will allow clients to understand others and bring light to what they are feeling.

Once you provide your clients with these tools, they can work on not just fixing the car engine but revving it up — and taking it to new places. 

Relationship Coach vs. Couples Therapist: Key Differences

A relationship coach is to a couples therapist, as an apple is to…

… an orange. 

You might be thinking…

How can they be so different?

Well, both are fruit, we’ll give you that. 

However, these types of services work on different timelines and different areas.

Let’s break it down. 

A couples therapist helps couples work on emotional healing, releasing past trauma, and things like helping clients dig into bringing the unconscious into consciousness. Therapy takes a deep dive into a client’s inner world and helps smooth out any wrinkles that might be blocking their emotional healing. They have a formal education and are trained to diagnose and treat mental and psychological disorders. 

A relationship coach takes a more forward-progress approach. They work with clients to take actions that will bring about a desired future. Like making better choices, learning new skills, and problem-solving when barriers come up. The journey is focused on something different than coping and healing (a focus in therapy). Instead, it focuses on getting to the next level and blooming with personal development. 

Therapy and coaching complement each other really well — like pumpkins and autumn or cake and birthdays. You can also think of therapy as something that comes before coaching. 

However, coaching and therapy can happen at the same time. 

Relationship Coach Job Description

Are you loving the idea of diving headfirst into the mysterious and fascinating world of human nature and relationships?

Well, coach, we’re taking a page out of the playbook and handing it to you!

We’re giving you a sneak peek at what you’ll be doing when you take on the role of a superstar relationship coach. 

Daily Activities and Client Interactions

When you work with clients here’s what your day could look like: You’ll fire up your relationship coach superpowers and: 

1. Help clients identify the root cause of relationship problems: You’ll take clients on a journey to self-discovery so they can understand what’s causing the problems. You’ll help them get well-acquainted with this process so they can apply it, even if you’re not there.

2. Create goals: When clients know what the cause of the problem is, you’ll help them set goals so they can take down the barriers that prevent them from having a fulfilling relationship. 

3. 1:1 coaching sessions: Through reflection, guided discussion, and questions to help clients reframe their thinking, you’ll help them with navigation and soul-finding to eventually complete goals. You also support them when things are working out. BUT ALSO challenge them to reach new heights and strategize as needed. 

4. Measure progress: Your relationship coach strategy MUST include a way to track progress. Whether you track the data or your clients. It’s important to get a visual on your client’s habits. Psst: get our FREE Monthly Coaching Review Form.

5. Celebrate wins and provide support: You’ll encourage your clients to celebrate when a goal is accomplished. You’ll also provide support for clients who need additional guidance through virtual visits, texting, or phone calls. 

When you’re not working with clients you’ll find yourself:

• Connecting and collaborating with other AMAZING life coaches or relationship coaches;
• Client acquisition and refining your relationship coach marketing and brand strategy;
• Back-end business tasks like invoicing, scheduling, or bookkeeping;
• Putting your learning cap on and sharpening your knowledge and coaching skills. 

Long-Term Objectives for Relationship Clients

A client might come to you and say…

Hey awesome coach, I want to have a good relationship/improve my current one. Can you help me?

You’ll rub your hands in mischievous excitement because improving a relationship is just the tip of the iceberg.

Secretly, you’re scheming to bring long-term changes your client might not have thought of.

Ok, well… you’re not scheming. And it’s not a secret. 

However, clients reach out to a relationship coach because they want better relationships, BUT what you’re guiding clients to is a burst of glorious personal long-term growth. It’s a magical thing!

Here are some objectives you might work on with your client:

Better communication: Yep, we said it again. But as a relationship coach, you know communication is a foundation for ALL relationships and underscores any successful venture a client may pursue in life. 

Fostering trust and loyalty: For sure! We dropped the “L” word like it’s nobody’s business.  People thrive when they know there is loyalty.

Encouraging personal growth: Personal growth is a two-lane highway. Clients need to know how to spur their own personal growth while being careful not to stifle someone else’s.

Fire up passion, romance, and intimacy.  The flames of love seem to die down after a while.  But not if YOU can help it! You’ll arm your client with strategies to keep the fire burning at bonfire strength instead of a small candle flame. 

Learn conflict resolution: Again, this is one of those skills that can be applied to anywhere there are humans. If a client learns it with you, they can take it in their tool bag for the rest of their life. 

These are just a few of the long-term objectives you’ll work on as a relationship coach with your clients. 

As with any type of coaching under the life coaching umbrella, we have an eye not just for making an impact in the short-term, no way. We’re out here playing the long game. 

The Path to Becoming a Relationship Coach

We’ve gone through the theory, facts, and the basics. It’s time to kick this thing into second gear and pull YOU into the loop. 

Do you have what it takes?

We know you do! 

Let’s see how your education, and experience lineup, and what you can do to get it to expert levels (if you haven’t already!).

Let’s get rolling!

Relevant Educational Background

As a relationship coach, you dig into the intricate details of human behavior like it’s a holiday present. 

If you think about education in terms of a university degree, you could have one of the following under your belt. 

A degree in:

• Counseling (bonus points for couple and family counseling)
• Social work
• Psychology
• Behavioral sciences
• Nursing or allied field

If you don’t have a degree, don’t worry. If you have skills like empathy, active listening, high motivation, and a drive to keep learning about human behavior — you have a solid and relevant starting point. 

Think of it like this: Even with a degree, everyone has to go through an “experience-getting” phase.

So buckle up! Let’s unravel the ways you can get a relationship coach experience going at full-throttle

Gaining Experience in Relationships and Coaching

Do you have friends or family that unload on you? Do you enjoy being there to support them?

That’s a great takeoff point. 

If you have no experience in the relationship coaching sphere, you can ask family or friends to give you the opportunity to coach them through their relationships. 

You can also offer your services at a discounted price. You’ll be following in the footsteps of many entrepreneurs who took this route. But, don’t forget to bump up your prices as you go!

Last, take a leap of faith and ask someone to allow you to shadow or intern with them.

They’ll leave you with priceless gems of wisdom and experience to take you to the next level. 

Top Relationship Coach Certifications

We’ve done the homework for you. Here are some star-studded relationship coaching certifications to get you on your way to making an impact. 

World Coach Institute, Certified Relationship Coach (CRC): Program highlights? Um, how about a 100% success rate?! Yes, you read that right. You’ll get the deets on proven methodologies and how to maintain ideal long-term client relationships. With no prerequisites, this is one of our favorite top picks. 

Coach Training World: These coaching programs vary by length and delivery, but one thing you can’t pass up is the premiere education. Simply choose your niche and get rolling!

Relationship Coaching Institute: Go right to the source. The Relationship Coaching Institute is the biggest relationship coach program provider out there! You get the whole nine yards with relevant material, mentoring, and insider know-how. If you’re ready to make a career as a relationship coach, they provide you with all the tools you need. 

Udemy Relationship Coaching Course: This one’s going to take a little leg work on your part. But don’t worry, it’s a breeze, we promise. Head over to Udemy, and browse through all the certification options. You’ll find plenty of great courses to help you get started and set you on the path to becoming a confident and successful relationship coach!

Don’t get disheartened with this step, champ! This is one step you don’t want to skip. It gives you a foundation you can’t pass up.

Starting Your Relationship Coaching Practice

Once you have your education, experience, and certification completed, it’s time to get to the boss level.

Who’s the boss you ask?

The boss is YOU. That’s right! 

On your entrepreneurial journey, the only thing that stands between you and beating the game is the tumultuous doubt you carry. You gotta crush your inner critic, overcome your fear of mistakes, and conquer procrastination. 

When you defeat those things, you’ll be on the relationship coach winner board.

We’re going to give you a step-by-step game plan to get through this level. As you go through, silence those fears and doubts so you can become the fabulous relationship coach you were meant to be!

Let’s get going!

Step 1: Legal considerations: Choosing the right business structure

Huddle in, because we’re going to make the first step easy! 

When you craft your perfect relationship coach business name, you’re going to go to the Secretary of State (for your state) and register your business. 

You have options like registering as a sole proprietor, LLC, or S-corp. We recommend you register as an LLC (Limited Liability Company).

Don’t get scared by the fancy terminology. Or, by the fact that “company” sounds like it should be more than just you (one relationship coach out to change the world!)

LLC simply means you get to separate your personal assets from your business assets. 

This is important because if you get into legal trouble, your personal assets are pretty much untouchable if you’re registered as an LLC. That means things like your personal banking account, mortgage, or car can’t be taken away.

Step 2: Conducting market analysis

Next, you’re going to do reconnaissance. Take a look at what’s happening in the market, what your ideal clients are up to, and your competition’s strategy. 

In other words, know the answer to these questions:

1. Who is your ideal client and what things are they struggling with? Get detailed! The more you understand your client and their struggles, the more you can speak their language and help them more effectively. 
2. How does your competition (AKA other relationship coaches), market and position themselves? This information is important for two reasons. One is education. You’ll start learning to speak the language spoken in the relationship coaching universe. Two is inspiration. Is there something a relationship coach does that you really like? Use that as a model for your own ideas.
3. What are the gaps in the current market? Do you see something that other relationship coaches are not offering? Maybe you feel like you can bring a new and different technique or approach to relationship coaching. 

When you have the answers to these questions, you’ll start to get an idea of how you want to market yourself and what kind of relationship coach business you want to start. 

➡️ Struggling to figure out where you fit in the coaching world? Our Niche Clarity Workbook is your ultimate tool for uncovering your strengths, defining your ideal client, and building a brand message that connects on a deep level.

Step 3: Developing your signature relationship coaching program

Step 2 flows perfectly into step 3: Fashioning your signature relationship coach program. 

By now you know who you want to work with and what they struggle with. What other coaches are doing and how you want to do things differently. 

Here’s an example of how to turn your market analysis into a relationship coaching program.

Client avatar: Recently divorced middle-aged women with kids.

Pain points: They want to start dating again but don’t have time or feel like they’re too old to date. 

What other coaches are doing: Other relationship coaches offer a 6-month program with exercises to be done outside of sessions to help encourage reflection and self-growth. Additional support is available through phone calls. 

What you’ll do differently: You could offer a different program length, coaching technique or allow these busy moms to message you on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok at specified times. You could create program “rules” that other coaches might not have, that can increase your relationship coach success. Whatever gaps you see, try and fill them so you can stand out. 

 And just like that, you can see your relationship coaching program start to take shape. 

Work out the details and before you know it, you’ll have a fully-fledged program. 

➡️ Ready to design offers that clients can’t resist? The Money Making Offers Workbook is your guide to mapping out and selling signature coaching programs that bring in both clients and revenue.

Step 4: Designing your brand identity

Your brand identity is made of a few elements.

1. Language and tone
2. Colors, fonts, and logo
3. Interactions with clients

Each of these should speak to your ideal client. For example, if we think about our ideal client in step three your brand identity could look (and sound) like this.

1. Language and tone: A tone that conveys hope, a hero coming to the rescue, a sense of calm, and reassurance. 
2. Colors, fonts, and logo: Choose colors that appeal to women. Soft palettes or colors that evoke calm and serenity. Stay away from garish colors that assault the eyes. 
3. Interactions with busy moms: Interaction should be easy, quick, and convenient. No long signup procedures, or 100-question intake forms. Just easy, simple, and no-nonsense processes. 

Don’t forget your brand identity is also YOU! How do you want to be perceived as a relationship coach? Let your brand identity soak up your unique flavor.

➡️ Looking to build a brand that truly represents you? Our Brand Clarity Guide will walk you through defining your brand mission, vision, and style, so your business stands out and feels authentically you.

Step 5: Building a professional coaching website

If you nail your brand identity, your website will come together perfectly like chicken wings and  Sunday night football.

If you’ve done your market research well and know the ins and outs of your client’s pain points, your website is the ultimate destination for your research. 

It really is! You’ll have all you need to be able to speak to the hearts and souls of your clients. 

Catch their attention, get them interested, spark their desire, and empower them to take action!

How do you feel about step 5, coach? Like REALLY feel?

Hopefully, you’re excited! But, if there’s something that makes you nervous about making your relationship coach debut on the internet…

We understand! That’s why we’ve made it our mission to help blossoming relationship coaches debut online with CONFIDENCE.

We can guide you through the process step-by-step. Start the conversation with us here. 

Step 6: Launching your relationship coaching services

Did you know your website comes with built-in promotional tools?

You can use these secret weapons to promote your relationship coach biz before the launch date. 

They include SEO (search engine optimization), blogging, or podcast library.

While this is the turtle approach, they can be super effective at creating an audience. 

The “hare” approach is firing up your social media, handing out flyers or business cards, or sending out emails. Except don’t be like the hare! Keep at it!

Whichever method you choose, be consistent and make sure to add value to your client’s lives. 

➡️ Looking to take your marketing to the next level? Our Coaching Business Sales & Marketing Bundle includes 11 must-have tools to help you consistently promote your business and attract your ideal clients.

Step 7: Attracting and retaining relationship coaching clients

Finally, let’s turn promotion into clients!

Start with your network: Talk to the people you know. Be bold and passionate like a Dungeons and Dragons player. A lot of people won’t understand it, but they’ll sense your expertise, love, and desire to be a relationship coach. You can also network online with people who do understand your journey. Like groups or communities on Facebook or LinkedIn. You never know when a referral will trickle down your way!

Partner up!: You can talk to clinics, community centers, or other businesses to see if there is a need for a relationship coach. Don’t cut yourself short and limit your reach. There are opportunities everywhere!

Apply to jobs: Go for a whirl on job search engines. While you’ll be a W-2 employee, nothing beats first-hand experience. 9 to 5’s are a fantastic way to get warmed up. Build up your experience, so that when you’re ready to launch your very own relationship coach biz, you’ll be locked in and loaded. 

Gather testimonials: Anyone who’s ready to pull out the wallet and buy — LOVES to see social proof first. Be sure to have that! This means you need to have a process of collecting testimonials. Start with your friends and work your way up to paying clients. 

Combine these strategies to make that first-client connection. Once you get your first client, you have a blueprint to use for years to come. 

Why Choose Relationship Coaching as a Career?

We love the romantic story where the princess gets to ride away with her Prince Charming. As a relationship coach, you get to work to bring that story to completion EVERYDAY!

Even more lovely is that your guidance isn’t limited to fairy tale endings. Your coaching helps people with a variety of relationships. Whether it be with friends, co-workers, or family bonds that need mending. 

If you’re wondering why you should be a relationship coach, here’s the cherry on top.

Making an Impact on Couples and Individuals

You have a profound understanding of human nature and are tuned into the delicate details of relationships. In a way that leaves others in awe.

You’re able to wield your relationship coaching superpowers to take a once-struggling relationship and turn it into a beautiful partnership.

You get a rush of adrenaline and a sense of satisfaction when goals are accomplished. 

Those are the moments you live for as a relationship coach!

And the impact you’ll have on individuals is breathtaking.

You’ll guide clients to:

• Understand themselves and their relationships better
• Empower clients and help them improve their relationship skills
• Enjoy fulfilling lasting relationships

You can be sure the work you do will be meaningful and impactful. 

The Growing Demand for Relationship Coaches

Imagine. 

You step into a relationship coach role where you make an impact AND you make a good income at the same. 

It’s totally possible!

In a post-pandemic world, people had time to look inward and examine their relationships. The introspection didn’t stop when the pandemic did. Now, people are more relationship conscious and want to make changes in their lives. 

In 2023 the coaching industry was estimated to be $5.34 billion. In 2024, it’s still growing!

(Read all about it here!)

There’s more than enough potential for you to carve out your income in this vibrant industry. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Relationship Coaching

We know you’ve got questions about becoming a relationship coach, and we’ve got answers! If you’re curious about what the role really looks like, how much it costs, or if it’s similar to therapy, we’re here to clear things up. Let’s dive into some of the most common questions aspiring relationship coaches like you are asking.

What does a relationship coach do?

A relationship coach helps individuals and couples improve their relationships by offering guidance, support, and strategies for better communication, conflict resolution, and personal growth. They focus on helping clients develop healthier connections, whether it’s romantic, familial, or even professional relationships. By working closely with clients, relationship coaches guide them in identifying patterns, setting goals, and working toward fulfilling, happy partnerships.

What is the role of a relationship coach?

The role of a relationship coach is to serve as a guide, mentor, and accountability partner for clients looking to improve their relationships. Unlike therapy, which often focuses on healing past trauma, a relationship coach works with clients to build skills for the present and future. This includes helping them navigate challenges, set actionable goals, and improve communication within their relationships. It’s all about empowering clients to create the relationships they truly want.

What does a relationship coach cost?

The cost of hiring a relationship coach can vary widely depending on factors like experience, location, and the length of sessions. On average, a session can range anywhere from $75 to $200 or more. Some coaches offer packages or long-term programs that could provide more value for clients looking for ongoing support. It’s important to research and find a coach whose pricing and offerings align with your needs and budget.

Is a relationship coach the same as a therapist?

While both relationship coaches and therapists aim to help clients improve their relationships, they do so in different ways. A therapist often addresses past traumas and psychological issues, working through emotional wounds and mental health challenges. A relationship coach, on the other hand, focuses on present and future goals, offering practical tools to enhance relationships. Coaching is more forward-thinking and action-oriented, while therapy tends to delve deeper into emotional healing.

Final Thoughts on Becoming a Relationship Coach

We hope this guide gave you a clear path on how to become a relationship coach!

To recap, we started by exploring the role of a relationship coach and what it takes to make an impact on couples and individuals. We walked through the differences between coaching and therapy, highlighted the educational background and certifications you need, and shared the key steps for launching your own relationship coaching practice.

From building your signature coaching program to attracting your first clients, we covered everything you need to know to kickstart a rewarding career in relationship coaching.

Now we’d love to hear from you:

What’s the first step from this guide that you’re ready to take action on?

Are you excited to start crafting your coaching program, or are you diving into certifications? Maybe you’ve got a question or something you’re curious about.

Whatever it is, let us know by dropping a comment below and don’t forget to share this post with anyone who might be thinking about becoming a relationship coach too!