Best Coaching Practices: Ethics in action

I am studying for my Coach Knowledge Assessment (CKA) Exam, which is conducted by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Thanks to the world of social media and the kindness of some senior coaches, I found my way into a forum that is offering practice for the exam with fellow travellers on this road. This wonderful space is hosted by coach Anushly Sithamparam who is based in Sri Lanka.

A recent session put the spotlight on ethics in coaching. From this conversation and my further reading, here is what I learnt

Confidentiality is a cornerstone. What is shared by a client in a session remains there. From this safe and inclusive space emerges so many possibilities. Hence the ethical conduct of a Coach is super important for the practice to grow and flourish.

If a client who is working with an ICF-certified coach feels that confidentiality or any other terms of the contract has not been adhered to, they can file a complaint and an Ethics Standard Review will be conducted.

Confidentiality is at the heart of the coaching profession

There are 28 ethical standards that a Coach must abide by (as per the ICF Code of Ethics) that are laid out under four broad sections. (1)Responsibility to Clients. (2) Responsibility to practice and performance. (3) Responsibility to professionalism and (4) Responsibility to society.

There are some exceptions to what is covered under confidentiality as per ICF (e.g., illegal activity, if required by law, pursuant to a valid court order or subpoena; imminent or likely risk of danger to self or to others; etc.) where a coach may need to inform appropriate authorities.

In a world that has 50 shades of grey, and there is no black or white to guide us, it is quite reassuring as a coach and as a client to know that there is a code of ethics that guides the profession. The 28 ethical standards are the various shades of excellence holding the coach responsible for a standard of ethical conduct while delivering professional coaching.

Also, see Why coaching is different from mentoring