Professional Standards
Ethics & Competencies
The foundational standards that define professional coaching excellence — as established by the International Coaching Federation.
ICF Code of Ethics
The ICF Code of Ethics describes the core values of the International Coaching Federation, defines ethical principles and standards of conduct for all ICF Professionals, and applies to all ICF members, credential-holders, and candidates. It serves as the ethical foundation for the global coaching profession.
Purpose
The ICF Code of Ethics exists to uphold the integrity of the coaching profession and to protect clients, sponsors, and the public. It establishes a shared ethical framework that all ICF Professionals are expected to understand, embrace, and embody in their coaching practice and professional conduct.
ICF Core Values and Ethical Principles
ICF's core values and the behaviors that flow from them serve as the foundation for the ethical obligations set forth in this Code. All ICF Professionals are expected to demonstrate these values in their interactions:
- Professionalism — Commit to the highest standards of professional conduct and continuous development.
- Collaboration — Value the collaborative nature of coaching and the partnership with clients and stakeholders.
- Humanity — Honor the dignity, worth, and potential of every human being.
- Equity — Commit to fair, inclusive, and equitable practices in all coaching interactions.
Commitments for All Within the ICF Ecosystem
All individuals and organizations operating within the ICF ecosystem — including members, credential-holders, candidates, and ICF-accredited programs — are expected to uphold the principles of this Code in all professional activities, communications, and relationships, whether or not a formal coaching engagement is in place.
Ethical Standards for ICF Professionals
ICF Professionals are held to five core ethical standards that govern their practice:
- Agreements for Client and/or Sponsor Engagement — Establish clear, transparent agreements that define the coaching relationship, roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
- Confidentiality and Legal Compliance — Protect the confidentiality of all client information and comply with applicable laws and regulations.
- Professional Conduct and Conflicts of Interest — Maintain professional boundaries, avoid conflicts of interest, and act with integrity in all professional relationships.
- Commitment to Delivering Consistent Value — Strive to deliver high-quality coaching that serves the client's best interests and supports their growth.
- Professional Integrity and Accountability — Take responsibility for one's actions, acknowledge mistakes, and uphold the reputation of the coaching profession.
The Pledge of Ethics
As an ICF Professional, I acknowledge and agree to fulfill my ethical and legal obligations to my coaching clients, sponsors, colleagues, and to the public at large. I pledge to comply with the ICF Code of Ethics and to practice these standards with all my clients and in all my professional relationships.
ICF Core Competencies
The 2025 ICF Core Competencies represent the knowledge, skills, and behaviors that define effective coaching practice. They form the basis for ICF credentialing and provide a shared language for the global coaching community.
Foundation
1. Demonstrates Ethical Practice
Understands and consistently applies coaching ethics and standards of coaching.
2. Embodies a Coaching Mindset
Develops and maintains a mindset that is open, curious, flexible, and client-centered.
Co-Creating the Relationship
3. Establishes and Maintains Agreements
Partners with the client and relevant stakeholders to create clear agreements about the coaching relationship, process, plans, and goals.
4. Cultivates Trust and Safety
Partners with the client to create a safe, supportive environment that allows the client to share freely.
5. Maintains Presence
Is fully conscious and present with the client, employing a style that is open, flexible, grounded, and confident.
Communicating Effectively
6. Listens Actively
Focuses on what the client is and is not saying to fully understand what is being communicated in the context of the client systems.
7. Evokes Awareness
Facilitates client insight and learning by using tools and techniques such as powerful questioning, silence, metaphor, or analogy.
Cultivating Learning and Growth
8. Facilitates Client Growth
Partners with the client to transform learning and insight into action. Promotes client autonomy in the coaching process.