ICF Ethics and Core Competencies set ICF-Approved Programs apart
LEXINGTON, Ky., Aug. 27, 2009 — When people choose to make a career of coaching, or add coaching skills to their profession, they can be overwhelmed by the task of finding coach training. The International Coach Federation (ICF) helps make the decision easier by distinguishing training programs that meet the highest standards for the coaching industry.
“As coaching has grown across the globe, the number of coach training programs has grown into the hundreds, possibly thousands,” points out ICF President Karen Tweedie, PCC*. “The ICF Core Competencies and ICF Code of Ethics have been created and refined over the years by leaders in the field of coaching. ICF approval of coach training programs serves to distinguish those courses which are taught in accordance with these high standards.”
In order to assist prospective students and promote the further development of the practice of coaching, the ICF has offered independent coach training approval since 1999. Each training entity that applies for approval must demonstrate their commitment to the highest standards for curricula, faculty, structure and proficiency, in addition to the ICF Code of Ethics and ICF Core Competencies. Programs are required to renew their approval status every three years.
The number of ICF-approved programs has steadily grown from five in 1999 to 119 in 2009. These numbers correlate with the steady growth in ICF membership, demonstrating the heightened interest in coaching as a career over the last decade and thus the increase in training options. Through program approval, the ICF identifies for potential coaches and their future clients, qualified training programs that meet the highest standards set by the world’s leading global organization of professional coaches.
The ICF lists all currently approved programs in the free Training Program Search Service on its Web site, Coachfederation.org under the Research and Education tab. This service allows potential students to search for an ICF-approved program by name, type, location, language or coaching specialty.
If you are interested in finding an ICF-approved program or information on how to apply for ICF approval, please visit http://www.coachfederation.org.
The ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. Coaching is a distinct service and differs greatly from therapy, consulting, mentoring or training. Individuals who engage in a coaching relationship can expect to experience fresh perspectives on personal challenges and opportunities, enhanced thinking and decision-making skills, enhanced interpersonal effectiveness and increased confidence in carrying out their chosen work and life roles.
The International Coach Federation is the leading global organization for coaches, with more than 13,800 members in over 90 countries, dedicated to advancing the coaching profession by setting high ethical standards, providing independent certification and building a worldwide network of credentialed coaches. The ICF is the only organization that awards a global credential which is currently held by over 5,300 coaches worldwide. For more information on how to become or find an ICF Credentialed coach, please visit our Web site at http://www.coachfederation.org.
*PCC: Professional Certified Coach, credential awarded by the International Coach Federation.
ICF HEADQUARTERS CONTACTS:
Ann Belcher, +1.859.226.4428,
Kristin Hogue, +1.859.219.3614,
Amy Richardson, +1.859.219.3550,
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