Key changes coaches need to know

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) has released its updated 2025 Code of Ethics. While the foundational values remain intact, the structure, scope, and standards have evolved in noticeable ways, to reflect changing conditions. Whether you're an ICF-certified coach, a mentor, a trainer, or a volunteer, this new Code likely applies to you in new ways.

We chatted to Sophie Bizeul (MCC, MA, Certified Professional Coach, Trainer, Mentor and Supervisor), to help us break down the three most critical changes to understand what they mean for your coaching practice and why they matter for your professional integrity and practice:

1. The Code now applies to the entire ICF ecosystem - not just coaches

What's new? 

The 2025 Code broadens its scope dramatically. It now explicitly applies to anyone operating within the ICF Ecosystem - not only credentialed coaches, but also:

• Coaches’ Personal Assistants
• Coaches in training
• Coach educators and trainers
• Mentors and supervisors
• Volunteers
• Board members
• ICF task force members, staff, and others acting “on behalf of ICF”

Why it matters

Previously, there was some ambiguity about whether non-members or volunteers were bound by the Code. That gap is now closed. Even if you’re not a member or credential-holder but represent ICF in any capacity, you're held to the same ethical expectations. This shift promotes consistency and raises the bar for ethics across the global coaching landscape.

Key takeaway

If you work within or alongside ICF - even informally - you’re accountable to the Code. Transparency and ethical practice are no longer optional depending on your role.

2. New standards introduced regarding the use of AI & wearing multiple hats

The 2025 revision introduces two brand-new ethical standards (and labels them as such):

a) Standard 2.5: Responsible Use of AI

What it says

ICF professionals must disclose the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and ensure client interests are protected when AI technologies (like transcription tools, storage systems, or analysis software) are used.

Practical application

• If you use tools like Zoom auto-transcriptions, Siri, or third-party coaching platforms during your sessions, you must inform your client.
• You must disclose who will access the data, how long it’s stored, and how it might be used.
• Consent is not legally required by ICF - but best practice is to ask for and record it explicitly.
  

Why it matters

AI is becoming standard in coaching, but coachees may not know they’re being recorded or transcribed. Ethical practice demands coaches stay ahead of the tech curve - not behind it.

b) Standard 3.7: Disclosure of Multiple Roles

What it says

ICF professionals must disclose when they are wearing multiple hats with a given coachee and/or within an organization the coachee is part of - for example, acting as both a coach and a trainer, therapist, HR leader, or mentor coach.

Practical application

• If you’re coaching a manager while also training their direct reports, that dual role must be disclosed.
• If you’re a therapist offering coaching services, switching between roles mid-session without client awareness is unethical.
• The same goes for any perceived role overlap that could introduce bias, conflict, or confusion.

Why it matters

This change enforces ethical transparency in complex organizational dynamics - especially important for executive and internal coaches.

Key takeaway

Clarify your role - and stay in your lane unless the client consents to a change.

Read this Case Study
The ICF website has shared this case study aligned with Standard 3.7 of the ICF Code of Ethics, which addresses how to proceed when a client needs therapy.

This resource helps ICF professionals - coaches, mentors, and supervisors - navigate ethical dilemmas by emphasizing the importance of setting and maintaining clear boundaries in coaching engagements when it becomes clear that the client would benefit from more than just coaching.

The case study provides potential resolutions for such situations, including seeking external support, discussing the situation directly with the client, or ending the coaching relationship altogether. It encourages the coach to pause coaching and explain when the next step might be therapy, consulting, or mentoring.

General reorganization for clarity and accessibility

The 2025 Code reorganizes its sections into five clearly defined parts instead of the previous four, and groups standards by functional area.

Ethical standards are now divided into:

• Agreements for Client/Sponsor Engagement
• Confidentiality and Legal Compliance
• Professional Conduct & Conflicts of Interest
• Delivering Consistent Value

This restructuring makes it easier to find the standards relevant to your context - whether you’re building agreements, resolving conflicts, or handling sensitive data. It also includes clearer definitions in an expanded appendix, helpful for coaches working across industries, borders, and evolving platforms.

Ethics is not a ‘nice to have’

As Sophie summarizes, “Ethics in coaching is no longer just about avoiding wrongdoing. It’s about proactively ‘doing good’, even when it's uncomfortable or complex.”

This revised Code is both a reminder and a resource. It’s designed to help you reflect, navigate gray areas, and hold yourself to the high standard your clients deserve. As a general rule, start your conversations with your coachees by explaining your ethical commitments, especially around technology and boundaries. It not only builds trust, but it also keeps you aligned with ICF’s evolving expectations.

Resources for further reading:
🔗 ICF Code of Ethics – Full PDF & Summary PDF Highlighting Main Changes
🔍 Insights & Considerations for Ethics