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Code of Ethics
ICF is committed to maintaining and promoting excellence in coaching. Therefore, ICF expects all members and credentialed coaches (coaches, coach mentors, coaching supervisors, coach trainers or students), to adhere to the elements and principles of ethical conduct: to be competent and integrate ICF Core Competencies effectively in their work.
In line with the ICF core values and ICF definition of coaching, the Code of Ethics is designed to provide appropriate guidelines, accountability and enforceable standards of conduct for all ICF Members and ICF Credential-holders, who commit to abiding by the following ICF Code of Ethics:
Making Sense of Coaching Credentials
ICF Credential holders are part of a self-regulating group of elite coaches who provide accountability to clients and the coaching profession as a whole. They pursue and complete rigorous education and practice requirements that provide unquestioned legitimacy to their commitment to excellence in coaching.
There are three different credentialing levels that have very specific criteria and exams at each level, plus ongoing professional development.
ACC | Associate Certified Coach | 60+ Hours of Training | 100+ Coaching Hours |
PCC | Professional Certified Coach | 125+ Hours of Training | 500+ Coaching Hours |
MCC | Master Certified Coach | 200+ Hours of Training | 2500 Coaching Hours |
Coaching Competencies
Coaching Competencies
- Setting the Foundation 1. Meeting Ethical Guidelines and Professional Standards 2. Establishing the Coaching Agreement
- Co-creating the Relationship 3. Establishing Trust and Intimacy with the Client 4. Coaching Presence
- Communicating Effectively 5. Active Listening 6. Powerful Questioning 7. Direct Communication
- Facilitating Learning and Results 8. Creating Awareness 9. Designing Actions 10. Planning and Goal Setting 11. Managing Progress and Accountability