ICF framework

The ICF Core Competencies, in brief

Eight ICF competencies in four domains: what our reports look for.

Foundation

Ethics and a curious, client-centred mindset.

1. Demonstrates Ethical Practice

Keeps the conversation within coaching, respects confidentiality and the client’s autonomy.

We look for

Stays in a coaching role rather than advising, therapising or consulting
Is transparent about the process and boundaries
Respects the client’s choices and pace

Report: met or not met, at every level.

2. Embodies a Coaching Mindset

Stays curious, open and client-centred; lets the client own their choices.

We look for

Holds back own solutions and judgements
Shows curiosity about the client’s perspective
Acknowledges the client as responsible for their decisions

Report: ACC, PCC or MCC, or N/A when evidence is thin.

Co-creating the relationship

Agreeing the work, building trust, staying present.

3. Establishes and Maintains Agreements

Clarifies what the client wants from the session and how success will be recognised.

We look for

Asks what the client wants to focus on
Explores what success looks like for this session
Checks in on progress against the agreed focus

Report: ACC, PCC or MCC, or N/A when evidence is thin.

4. Cultivates Trust and Safety

Creates a safe space where the client can share openly.

We look for

Acknowledges the client’s feelings, strengths and efforts
Shows empathy and respect for the client’s identity and context
Invites the client to respond in any way they choose

Report: ACC, PCC or MCC, or N/A when evidence is thin.

5. Maintains Presence

Stays focused, responsive and comfortable with silence and not-knowing.

We look for

Follows the client’s lead instead of a script
Allows pauses and space to think
Responds to shifts in the client’s energy or emotion

Report: ACC, PCC or MCC, or N/A when evidence is thin.

Communicating effectively

Listening, and questions that help the client see more.

6. Listens Actively

Focuses on what the client is and is not saying; reflects and summarises.

We look for

Reflects or paraphrases the client’s words
Summarises to check understanding
Notices patterns, emotions and the unsaid

Report: ACC, PCC or MCC, or N/A when evidence is thin.

7. Evokes Awareness

Uses powerful questions, silence and observations to create new insight.

We look for

Asks open, concise questions that move the client forward
Challenges assumptions and limiting beliefs respectfully
Shares observations without attachment

Report: ACC, PCC or MCC, or N/A when evidence is thin.

Cultivating learning and growth

Turning insight into learning and action.

8. Facilitates Client Growth

Turns insight into learning and action the client designs themselves.

We look for

Invites the client to design actions and next steps
Explores support, obstacles and accountability
Closes the session by consolidating learning

Report: ACC, PCC or MCC, or N/A when evidence is thin.

ACC, PCC and MCC explained Learning library