Coaching Ethics: A Commitment to Professionalism and Growth

Coaching profession is a lifelong commitment to a craft that blends art and science.

My journey with coaching began with admiration and hope—a hope to be coached toward discovering my best self. It started with curiosity about the philosophy of "being given a fish versus learning how to fish," which led me to embark on my first level of coach training in 2020. Teachers Dr Thomas Yates and Mr Paul Mark opened a magical door into a field I instantly fell in love with. Since then, I have immersed myself in the world of coaching through the International Coaching Federation (ICF) Community of Practice, both globally and within the Singapore Chapter. Attending conferences hosted by coaching.com further deepened my fascination with the art of being and the science of doing, as well as the science of being and the art of doing.

My motto? "Offer a container of growth that focuses on the whole person and, through coaching conversations, bring clients to achieve their best hope."

To strengthen my understanding of human behavior, I pursued an MSc in Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health with the King's College London. Yet, a coaching conversation is never about telling a client what to do based on knowledge alone.

It is about supporting clients in discovering what they already know, uncovering what they do not yet know, and building confidence and momentum toward their desired future.

Understanding the Distinctions: Coaching vs. Other Professions

One of the most common misconceptions about coaching is its overlap with other helping professions. While there are similarities, understanding the differences is essential for clients seeking the right kind of support.

• Coach: A coach facilitates self-discovery and growth by partnering with clients to unlock their potential through deep listening, insightful questioning, and co-creating their preferred future. Coaching is client-led, solution-focused, and action-oriented, empowering individuals to generate their own insights and take meaningful steps forward.
  

• Mentor: A mentor provides guidance by sharing personal experiences, lessons learned, and industry insights. While their wisdom offers valuable perspective, mentoring is often shaped by the mentor’s past experiences. Ultimately, the mentee must carve out their own unique path, applying the insights in a way that aligns with their individual journey.
  

• Consultant: A consultant provides expert advice, solutions, and strategies to address specific challenges. Unlike coaching, consulting is more directive, offering predefined answers rather than fostering self-exploration.
  

• Counselor: A counselor helps individuals navigate emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. Counseling often focuses on healing from past experiences, emotional distress, and mental well-being, whereas coaching is more future-oriented.
  

• Therapist/Psychologist: Therapists and psychologists diagnose and treat mental health conditions, providing in-depth psychological intervention. While coaching can support personal growth, it does not replace therapy for individuals dealing with clinical concerns.
  

The Importance of Ethics in Coaching

Upholding ethical standards is paramount in coaching. At a recent ICF Community of Practice session, Lola Chetti, MCC, and Cathy Liska, MCC, shed light on the evolution of the ICF Code of Ethics and shared links to resources. These insights are invaluable in enabling professional coaches to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.

Ethical coaching ensures that clients receive quality support in a safe, confidential, and empowering space. It distinguishes credentialed coaches from untrained individuals who may offer guidance without the necessary qualifications.

The Power of Coaching: A Call to Reflection

Imagine: What difference would it make if you had an open conversation with yourself, supported by a trained professional holding space for your growth?

Coaching is a partnership, a journey, and a transformative process that leads individuals toward clarity, confidence, and meaningful change.

If you're curious about what coaching could do for you, let’s connect.

Coaching is a partnership, a journey, and a transformative process that leads individuals toward clarity, confidence and meaningful change.