About

Founded in 1995, the ICF is the leading global organization dedicated to advancing the coaching profession by setting high standards, providing independent certification, and building a worldwide network of credentialed coaches. Based in Lexington, Ky. (USA), the ICF also operates Regional Service Centres in Asia-Pacific, Europe, and Latin America.

With more than 19,000 professional personal and business coaches representing more than 100 countries, the ICF is the voice of the global coaching profession.

The ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

Our core purpose is to advance the art, science and practice of professional coaching. The ICF exists to build, support and preserve the integrity of the coaching profession through programs and standards supported by our members.

To Build ...
The ICF maintains a high visibility for the profession through public relations, publicity campaigns, marketing strategies and the Coach Referral Service (CRS), an independent, non-profit ICF service which makes it easy for people to find the right coach for their needs.

To Support ...
The ICF develops and implements programs that assist in the professional development of our members. In addition to the professional development opportunities of an annual conference, the ICF provides professional growth opportunities through its local chapters throughout the world. Continual support is available through the ICF website, ICF Online Community, and publications.

To Preserve ...
The ICF developed and promotes an industry-wide Code of Professional Standards. ICF also developed the first universally accepted Accreditation process which preserves the integrity of coaching through standardized credentials that assist consumers in choosing professional coaches.