Coaching Ethics & Professional Standards Flashcards

A prospective client asks a coach to exaggerate their credentials to impress stakeholders. How should the coach respond?

Answer: Refuse, as misrepresenting qualifications violates professional ethical standards

Misrepresenting qualifications is a direct violation of professional integrity and ICF ethical standards, regardless of the benefit to the client.

Which best describes the ethical concept of 'non-maleficence' as applied to leadership coaching?

Answer: Avoiding actions that could psychologically or professionally harm the client

Non-maleficence in coaching means the coach actively works to avoid causing harm to the client through their interventions or behaviors.

A coach's client begins sharing information about illegal activity by a colleague. What should the coach prioritize?

Answer: Encourage the client to report it and explore the situation within the coaching context

The coach's role is to support the client in navigating the situation, which may include exploring options such as reporting through proper channels.

What is the ethical standard regarding a coach using client case studies for marketing or training purposes?

Answer: Client permission must be obtained and identifying information should be anonymized

Using client information for any purpose outside the coaching engagement requires explicit consent and typically anonymization to protect confidentiality.

Which of the following is an example of a coach appropriately managing a countertransference reaction?

Answer: Noticing their emotional reaction to the client and discussing it in supervision

Managing countertransference involves recognizing personal reactions and processing them through supervision rather than acting them out in sessions.

A coach who holds a CLC credential uses the title 'Licensed Therapist' on their website because they also hold a therapy license. How does this affect their coaching ethics?

Answer: They must clearly differentiate between their coaching and therapy roles to avoid confusion

When a coach holds dual professional credentials, they must clearly distinguish which role they are fulfilling at any given time to maintain ethical clarity.

What is the ethical responsibility of a CLC coach regarding continued professional development?

Answer: Coaches are obligated to continuously update their knowledge and skills to maintain competence

Ethical coaching practice requires ongoing professional development to ensure the coach's competence keeps pace with evolving knowledge and best practices.