Discuss ICF ICF-ACC Exam Topic 1 Question 26

A coach believes that a client is trying to work on too many goals in too short a period of time Which approach reflects the best way to address this?

AInvite the client to consider how realistic it is to achieve so many goals that quickly

BSuggest that the client work to work on the hardest goal until they have more time

CHelp the client develop a plan to accomplish the goals within the timeframe

DAsk the client if they would consider focusing on the hardest goal during coaching

Suggested Answer: A

ICF Competency 7 ('Evokes Awareness') and Competency 8 ('Facilitates Client Growth') encourage coaches to help clients assess feasibility and prioritize goals collaboratively, respecting client autonomy (ICF Code of Ethics, Section 1). Let's assess:

A . Invite the client to consider how realistic it is to achieve so many goals that quickly: This reflects Competency 7 by prompting reflection and Competency 8 by guiding toward sustainable progress, maintaining a client-led process.

B . Suggest that the client work on the hardest goal until they have more time: This is directive (ICF Code of Ethics, Section 2.3) and assumes the coach's prioritization, not the client's.

C . Help the client develop a plan to accomplish the goals within the timeframe: This ignores the coach's concern about feasibility, potentially setting the client up for failure, and skips awareness (Competency 7).

D . Ask the client if they would consider focusing on the hardest goal during coaching: While less directive than B, it still narrows focus without first exploring realism, missing the broader awareness step.

Option A is the best approach, aligning with ICF's emphasis on awareness and realistic goal-setting.

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12 comments · newest first

Felicidad 1 month ago

Option D seems good too. Focusing can reduce stress.

Dean 1 month ago

I prefer option C. A plan can help manage everything.

James 1 month ago

I think option A is the best. Realistic goals matter.

Anthony 2 months ago

C sounds practical, but it might be too much pressure.

Dell 2 months ago

Surprised this is even a question, isn’t it obvious?

Virgilio 2 months ago

But what if the client is super motivated?

Arlette 2 months ago

Totally agree, too many goals can be overwhelming!

Major 2 months ago

I think option A makes the most sense.

Salina 2 months ago

I feel like suggesting to focus on just the hardest goal, like in option B, could lead to burnout. It seems risky without a solid plan in place.

Kallie 3 months ago

I'm a bit torn between A and D. A seems more about reflection, while D might help the client focus better, but I can't recall which one was emphasized in our sessions.

Ashanti 3 months ago

I remember a practice question where we discussed prioritizing goals, and I feel like option C might be the best choice since it involves creating a structured plan.

Martin 3 months ago

I think option A makes sense because it encourages the client to reflect on their goals, but I'm not entirely sure if it's the most effective first step.

ICF-ACC Exam - Topic 1 Question 26 Discussion