Pain Coach Academy, formerly Take Courage Coaching U, has been the leader in chronic pain coaching for over a decade. Over that time, we have developed a method that helps people struggling with chronic pain, lack of mobility, stress, sleepless nights and behaviors that cause suffering. Through this work, our coach trainees have been able to help thousands of people improve their function, change their behaviors, come out of "fog" and despair, and become alive in their purpose for changing the course of humanity.
Pain Coach Academy is happy to announce a new training opportunity. Beginning on March 20, 2026, we will be launching the new and improved Advanced Pain Coach Training. This offering will feature asynchronous classes involving deep instruction on Chronic Pain Group Coaching, Discord and Sustain Talk, Anger and Acceptance, Nutrition and Chronic Pain, and much more. Because this training is asynchronous, students may enroll at any time. Stay tuned for more updates coming soon!
Overview
This program will dive deep into what it means to be a pain coach. It is built on the experience of serious chronic pain coaches, who through experience, have mastered the essentials of how to get people suffering with chronic pain and chronic illness, and out of the pit of despair. It’s an intensive program that is a mix of science backed education and practical coaching skills that serve even the clients that the rest of society has given up on. You will benefit by learning the wisdom your instructors had to learn through years of trial and error.
The goal of this program is to provide students with comprehensive training in chronic pain coaching through course videos, readings, homework, and assessments. By the end of this training, coaches will be competent and confident in coaching people with complex chronic pain challenges. This training is designed to prepare students to become competent, confident pain management coaches who understand chronic pain and the tools needed to help clients return to living full, meaningful lives.
Students will develop a strong theoretical foundation in coaching, including core coaching principles, Dialogue Groups, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and the role of neuroplasticity in chronic pain.
Course topic examples: The Pain Client, Navigating Discord, Addictions and Chronic Pain, The Brain Pain Connection, Movement Therapy, Suicide Prevention, and Group Coaching practicum
Learn the science behind Mindfulness, Reducing Stress/Fear and Anger/Acceptance
Reading exams and a comprehensive final exam
Each student will receive access to PCA’s Student Center for all class materials and more
A dependable Internet connection, plus moderate computer skills (an email address, internet or data plan with sufficient speed to view videos, and basic typing skills).
Passing score of at least 80% on the final comprehensive exam.
Completion of required reading, reading exams, and homework.
Logging a record of all classes viewed.
As an adult learner, each participant is responsible for completion of requirements by the end of the course, if certification is desired.
Upon completion of required reading, reading exams, and homework you will then receive your Certified Pain Management Coach (CPMC) certification.
Advanced Pain Coaching Certification Program $499
“This has been the deepest learning experience I’ve engaged in since my initial coach training in 2007. This course thoroughly covers the bio-psycho-social model of pain management and the coaching strategies to facilitate behavior change in the pain client. The course is engaging, supports multiple learning styles and focuses on evidence-based practices that can be immediately implemented in coaching practice.” ~Megan
“This course really helped me elevate my confidence and knowledge around PNE. I get to sit more calmly with my clients in those more challenging sessions because I have more empathy and greater understanding about how pain works.” ~Cassady
“The teaching staff is well equipped to teach on the subject of chronic pain. As one who works in a pain management clinical environment, the content and its presentation will be of value to anyone desiring to change lives.” ~David
“PCA continues to set the standard in pain management coaching – evidence based methodologies + experienced pain management coaching instruction.” ~Lexy