The 4 Pillars of Ethical Coaching

Introducing the Coaching Ethics Handbook

To help make the coaching industry a safer place for vulnerable clients and their mental health, we enlisted the help of a variety of trained and licensed mental health experts and trauma-informed business consultants. Our working group compiled a number of best practices and guidance based on a trauma-informed framework and diversity, equity and inclusion best practices.

We’re proud to now offer this resource to all coaches for free.

The 4 Pillars of Ethical Coaching

The Handbook is a brief overview of the four pillars of ethical coaching which we define as Integrity, Safety, Inclusivity, and Professionalism. The handbook serves to provide foundational standards of ethical conduct for coaches in the industry as it pertains to working with vulnerable clients and ethical business practices.

In the handbook, you will find real-life examples and explanations that communicate how to conduct ethical practice and business.

This guide is not meant to limit creative freedom or discourage aspiring coaches from practicing their unique craft; but rather, it is meant to support coaches to practice their craft with integrity, safety, inclusivity, and professionalism. The suggestions and recommendations contained in this guide are intended to help coaches make decisions that are mutually beneficial for them, their businesses, their clients, and society as a whole.

Download the 4 Pillars of Ethical Coaching

The 4 Pillars of Ethical Coaching is a living document. This means that we will be regularly making updates to include revisions and new guidance based on community feedback and additional expert contributions.

Make sure you have the latest version!

Updates in this version include:

  • New examples that include neurolinguistic programming

  • Gender-neutral language