ICF-ACC Exam Questions

The ICF Coaching Boundaries distinguish coaching from therapy, stating that coaching does not address mental health conditions like trauma or sleep disorders. The ICF Code of Ethics (Section 2.5) requires coaches to 'refer clients to other professionals when appropriate' if issues fall outside their scope. Let's evaluate:

A . Continue coaching the client but recommend they see a mental health professional about these symptoms: This balances the coach's role in supporting the client's goals (ICF Competency 8) while adhering to ethical boundaries by referring out for nightmares and sleep issues, which suggest unresolved trauma (ICF Code of Ethics, Section 2.5).

B . Stop coaching until the client stops experiencing sleeping issues and nightmares: Ceasing coaching entirely isn't required unless the client's condition prevents engagement. ICF encourages maintaining the relationship within its scope (ICF Definition of Coaching).

C . Modify the coaching agreement to address the client's struggles with the problems resulting from this past event: This crosses into therapy by addressing past trauma, violating ICF boundaries and Competency 3 ('Establishes and Maintains Agreements').

D . Contact a health provider for the client so the coach and health provider can collaborate: This breaches confidentiality (ICF Code of Ethics, Section 4) unless the client explicitly consents, and collaboration exceeds coaching's non-therapeutic role.

Option A is the best action, as it upholds ICF ethics and boundaries by continuing coaching within its scope while ensuring the client's mental health needs are addressed professionally.

The ICF Code of Ethics (Section 2.5) mandates referral to other professionals when client needs exceed coaching's scope, which is limited to supporting personal and professional growth, not providing expert advice or managing organizational decisions (ICF Coaching Boundaries). Let's analyze:

A . Needs support navigating a transitional period in their life: This fits coaching's scope (ICF Definition of Coaching), supporting transitions through goal-setting and awareness (Competency 8).

B . Requests guidance in determining which employees should lose their jobs: This requires expertise in HR or management consulting, not coaching, as it involves directive advice and third-party impact, exceeding ICF boundaries (ICF Code of Ethics, Section 2.3). Referral to a consultant or HR professional is appropriate.

C . Wants help building better relationships: This is within coaching's domain, focusing on personal skills and growth (Competency 8), not requiring referral.

D . Seeks confidence and clarity during a career change: This aligns with coaching's purpose of enhancing potential and decision-making (ICF Definition of Coaching), not necessitating referral.

Option B warrants referral, as it falls outside ICF's non-directive, growth-focused scope.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

Option D aligns with Competency 7, 'Evokes Awareness' (7.3 -- Offers reframes to shift perspective), by gently encouraging the client to see her frustration in a new light without judgment (Competency 4.1). It fosters curiosity and supports Ethics Section 1.1 (respecting client experience).

Option A is overly personal and directive, breaching Competency 2.2. Option B dismisses the client's current state, missing Competency 6.1 (acknowledges emotions). Option C risks sounding accusatory, undermining trust (Competency 4.1). D best facilitates awareness and growth.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

Option A is the worst because it introduces the coach's personal feelings ('I like her a lot') and directs the client ('should not be so negative'), violating Competency 2.2 (partnership) and Ethics Section 2.1 (maintaining professional boundaries). It fails to evoke awareness (Competency 7) or respect the client's experience (Ethics 1.1).

Option B is dismissive but forward-focused. Option C may feel judgmental but invites reflection. Option D (best, see Question 7) supports growth. A most egregiously shifts focus to the coach and undermines the process.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

Option D adheres to Competency 7.11, 'Shares observations, insights, and feelings without attachment,' by offering the experience as an option while preserving client autonomy (Competency 8.3). It aligns with Ethics Section 2.2 (non-imposition) and the ICF Definition of Coaching (facilitating, not directing).

Option A is directive, violating Competency 2.2. Option B seeks permission but assumes relevance. Option C shares without consent and suggests solutions, bypassing partnership. D best respects the client's choice and process.