The ICF Code of Ethics is an essential resource for coaches, mentors, trainers, and coaching students, setting clear ethical guidelines and standards to uphold integrity in coaching practices. It includes five key sections: introduction, definitions, core values and ethical principles, ethical standards, and a professional pledge.
For coaches and clients—this Code offers a clear framework for ethical behavior, emphasizing confidentiality, conflict management, fair treatment of clients, transparency, accountability, and professionalism in every coaching relationship.
The ethical standards address responsibilities to clients, professional practice, and societal impact, guiding coaches to be clear about their roles, ensure confidentiality, maintain high-quality service, and avoid discrimination or conflicts of interest across various coaching roles.
ICF-accredited professionals must adhere to the Code of Ethics to maintain their ICF credentials. It also offers organizations and clients assurance of ethical coaching standards.
Those who are studying for the ICF ACC, PCC or MCC exams, please use the 2020 ICF Code of Ethics as a valuable resource.
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Topics
Coaching Essentials, Coaching Ethics, Discover - Your Coaching Career
Resource Type
Tools & Worksheets
Audience Type
Coach Educators, Experienced Coaches, External Coaches, HR & Organizational Leaders, ICF Assessors, ICF Chapter Leaders, Individuals Interested in Experiencing Coaching, Internal Coaches, Managers/Leaders Using Coaching Skills, Mentor Coaches, New Coaches, Professional Coaches, Team and Group Coaches
Language
Arabic, Armenian, English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Spanish, Turkish
Cost for Members
$0.00 USD
Cost for Non-Members
$0.00 USD
Publish Date
February 5, 2025
Revision Date
October 9, 2025
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