I was a concert and festival marketer for 10 years and a receptionist at WME Music before that. What makes me qualified to coach artists?

I’ve been told since I was a teenager that I would make a great therapist. We didn’t really know what coaches were then. I have natural gifts of perspective, curiosity, empathy, and communication, and I found myself using these with artists and music industry creatives frequently as I grew in my career.

In 2022 I was about to get promoted at my dream company after putting in the work for 7 years. I had to walk away because burnout, and I found myself in a club of people who gave their all to a music career and felt it slipping away because they didn’t have the resources they needed.

I decided to become a part of the solution! I chose to get formal training because I wanted to do it right. Many coaches who sell their services simply made a decision, built a website, and began taking clients. I want to be clear: SO many of these coaches have been able to tremendously help their clients. The coaching industry is largely unregulated, but I was sensitive to the fact that coaching is working with peoples’ complex emotions and energy, and I needed the tools to do it safely for the people who trusted me to help them.

Why did you choose iPEC (Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching)?

iPEC is the biggest ICF-accredited coach training program with the highest graduate success rate. In accordance with my desire to only work and learn with the best (Goldenvoice, WME, UMG), I wanted to train from industry leaders and master coaches.

I spent over a year collecting 150+ hours of live training in-person, 90+ hours of self-study and peer coaching, and 80+ hours of hands-on experience, mentor coaching, and client sessions.

Once I graduated, I became a Certified Professional Coach (CPC). This made me a certified coach from an ICF-accredited school, but it did NOT make me an ICF-certified coach. I then completed 100+ hours of client sessions and took the final exam in September of 2024 to get the Credly badge I’ve been after.

So then what is the ICF?

The coaching industry is not legally regulated in the way that medical psychology is, but coaches still have a responsibility with clients’ mental and emotional wellbeing throughout their coaching engagement.

ICF continues to offer the most globally recognized, independent credentialing program for coach practitioners. ICF Credentials are awarded to professional coaches who have met stringent education and experience requirements and have demonstrated a thorough understanding of the ICF Core Competencies that set the standard in the profession. Achieving credentials through ICF signifies a coach’s commitment to integrity, understanding and mastery of coaching skills, and dedication to clients through the Code of Ethics.

Ok, sell me on it.

TLDR:

I make sure that you and any sponsors understand the terms, and we make adjustments before you sign anything.

I create a comprehensive agreement customized to fit you or your sponsor’s needs and make sure we’ve accounted for legality based on where you are in the world.

I prioritize and ensure strict confidentiality regarding personal data, communication, and record keeping while complying with data protection requirements.

Everything we talk about in the session is completely non-disclosed by law, unless you or someone else is in danger.

I bring up any potential conflicts of interest so you can decide what’s right for you.

I use secure and safeguarding technology for all communication and record keeping, and I manage client notes to the highest vigilance and confidentiality.

If I don’t think you’re getting value out of our coaching sessions, I’ll help you pivot!

If our coaching sessions are not working for you, you’re free to end our engagement and I’ll help you find the right support.

I’ll always clarify if I’m operating as a coach, a consultant, a teacher, or a mentor if we’re involved in multiple engagements (ex: I coach you on Tuesdays, and we have a marketing consultation on Thursdays, and they’re different.)

I make sure that our coaching relationships stays balanced, equitable, and a true partnership, actively managing any power dynamics that may arise due to cultural, relational, psychological, or contextual factors.

I’ll tell you if I get a kickback or commission on any products or services I recommend you! (#ad)

I am committed to delivering consistent, high-quality coaching services to all clients, irrespective of compensation forms or trade arrangements.

If I breach the ICF Code of Ethics, I’ll address the issue directly with the ICF Local Ethics Committee to check myself.

I regularly review and discuss the ICF Code of Ethics with all involved personnel (support staff, finance, legal, marketing team, etc.)

I continue personal, professional, and ethical development and embrace lifelong learning by engaging with the latest coaching information, understanding my biases and cultural identity, and actively pursuing emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.

I recognize and address personal limitations or circumstances that could impair my coaching performance or professional relationships, and I let you know asap.

I get coaching supervision to help identify and navigate potential conflicts effectively.

I accurately represent my coaching qualifications, expertise, experience, training, certifications, and ICF Credential to uphold transparency and integrity.

I don’t make false promises about what I can deliver as a coach, or the results you’ll get.

I’m culturally sensitive to local customs and being mindful of physical, emotional, and professional boundaries when I’m working with clients from other parts of the world (and the USA).

I’m prohibited from engaging in any sexual or romantic relationships with clients or sponsors, and I’m happily together with my partner of 8 years.

I am committed to upholding fairness and equality in all coaching activities, actively avoiding discrimination based on age, race, gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, and other identities.

I prioritize integrity by recognizing and honoring the intellectual property rights of others while only claiming ownership of my own work.

I conduct coaching research with honesty and adherence to recognized scientific standards and ethical guidelines.

I make a positive societal impact through ethical coaching practices, emphasizing a philosophy of “doing good” rather than “avoiding bad,” and I reflect on my actions within the broader context of individual, organizational, and global systems.

I’m down to hear more details…

Before or during our initial meeting, I ensure that you and any sponsors fully understand the value of coaching, confidentiality limits, financial arrangements, and other terms of the coaching agreement. This meeting is crucial for clarifying expectations about the coaching process, its possibilities, and benefits. It also allows for adjustments to be made if needed. I will explain all aspects of the coaching agreement, giving everyone involved—clients, sponsors, and relevant parties—the opportunity to ask questions and understand their rights and responsibilities before signing.

Before starting services, I create a comprehensive agreement that outlines the roles, responsibilities, and rights of all parties involved, including clients and sponsors. This agreement clarifies and confirms the coaching relationship and must be established before services begin. It also details the involvement of any third parties, such as sponsors, managers, or HR personnel, ensuring everyone understands their rights and responsibilities. I maintain a flexible template for coaching agreements, which can be customized to fit each client's or sponsor's needs. We’ll identify the legal frameworks that will govern the contract, especially when parties are in different countries or using digital services. I remain accountable for ensuring that all agreements align with the ICF Code of Ethics, even when contracting with third parties.

I prioritize the highest levels of confidentiality with all parties involved, adhering to all applicable laws regarding personal data and communications. To ensure strict confidentiality, I implement best practices, including a clear understanding that all client and sponsor information will remain private before, during, and after the coaching engagement, policies for secure record-keeping to protect data from unauthorized access, including training for staff or support personnel on the importance of confidentiality, and compliance with relevant data protection policies, including those related to digital media, software, and social media platforms. Legal advice may be sought regarding GDPR and similar regulations. I recognize that information stored on company-owned resources may be accessible by others, making full confidentiality challenging. Therefore, I actively seek ways to maintain confidentiality while complying with data protection requirements.

As a professional coach, I prioritize the highest standards of confidentiality in all interactions with clients and sponsors. It's essential for everyone to understand the circumstances under which information may not remain confidential, such as illegal activity or imminent danger to self or others. I communicate these conditions transparently before the coaching process begins and document them in the coaching agreement. While confidentiality is crucial, I am obligated to disclose information under specific legal circumstances or when permitted by mutual agreement with the client and sponsor. I encourage open communication to ensure that all parties feel safe sharing sensitive information, fostering a trusting coaching relationship.

As an Internal Coach, I prioritize managing conflicts of interest through clear coaching agreements and ongoing dialogue with clients and sponsors. It’s essential to address organizational roles, responsibilities, confidentiality, and reporting requirements to build trust. At the outset of my coaching engagement, I recommend establishing a confidentiality agreement between the company and myself, outlining what information will be shared and with whom. I also ensure that all parties are aware of internal privacy rules and relationship dynamics for transparency. By being vigilant about potential conflicts arising from past or current leadership relationships and aligning my practices with the ICF Code of Ethics, I create a supportive coaching environment that fosters trust and openness.

I prioritize the confidentiality, security, and privacy of all records created during my professional interactions, whether in physical or electronic form, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and agreements. My commitment extends to responsible use of technology-assisted coaching services, recognizing that all records—such as notes, files, and audio or video recordings—must be handled carefully. I adhere to specific data retention requirements, informed by local laws, including GDPR for clients in the European Union, and implement secure storage solutions to protect client information. I take proactive measures to delete records responsibly and ensure that proper directives are in place for managing client records in the event of incapacitation. Additionally, I maintain strict confidentiality in my use of electronic communications and seek consent for any recordings made during sessions. I am vigilant regarding my online presence and the implications of using coaching platforms, ensuring that all actions align with the ICF Code of Ethics while safeguarding my clients' identities and personal information.

I remain vigilant to any signs that the value of our coaching relationship may be shifting. If I notice such changes, I am committed to addressing them directly and encouraging clients and sponsors to explore other coaching options or professional resources as needed. It is my responsibility to ensure that my services consistently benefit my clients and align with their best interests. To assess the coaching relationship's effectiveness, I establish a client-centered review process that invites feedback and identifies any shifts in perceived value. Recognizing when a client may benefit from additional support beyond my expertise, I am prepared to refer them to qualified professionals in fields such as therapy, legal, or medical services. I prioritize transparency by disclosing any referral fees associated with these professionals to my clients and sponsors.

I fully respect the rights of all parties to terminate the coaching relationship at any time and for any reason, as outlined in our agreement. I ensure that our coaching contract includes a clear termination clause, allowing both clients and sponsors to cancel the agreement if needed. If a client expresses a desire to end our sessions, I explore their motivations and support them in finding another ICF Professional or resource that may better meet their needs. I encourage clients to provide feedback in a voluntary closure session, which I offer complimentary, ensuring they feel supported throughout the process. Additionally, I maintain a transparent refund policy within the written agreement to further facilitate a smooth termination if necessary.

I am acutely aware of the potential conflicts of interest that can arise from holding multiple contracts and relationships with the same clients and sponsors. To maintain clarity, I ensure that my role in every coaching scenario is well-defined and easily recognizable, particularly when I may be serving as both a coach and a trainer or engaging with individual clients and their teams simultaneously. In situations where I am involved in coach training programs, I prioritize the best interests of students by clearly delineating my roles as teacher, mentor, assessor, or coach to avoid any biases or conflicts. Additionally, I advocate for separate contracts when offering consulting services, ensuring that clients understand my specific role and preserving the integrity of the coaching profession.

I prioritize a balanced and equitable coaching relationship, actively managing any power dynamics that may arise due to cultural, relational, psychological, or contextual factors. Recognizing that coaching thrives in an environment of partnership and equality, I strive to eliminate feelings of superiority or inferiority, ensuring a collaborative experience for my clients. By continuously acknowledging and addressing any status differences, I create a supportive atmosphere where clients feel empowered and valued. If maintaining this partnership proves challenging, I am committed to transparently discussing the situation to determine the best path forward for both parties.

Ensure transparency and integrity in your coaching practice by openly disclosing any potential compensation or benefits you may receive for referring clients to third parties. Such referrals can create conflicts of interest, as clients may perceive that your motivations are self-serving rather than in their best interest. By having candid discussions about these potential benefits, you empower clients to make informed choices about whether to act on your referrals. For instance, if you receive a commission for referring clients to personality assessments like MBTI or DISC, it's crucial to disclose this relationship. Alternatively, consider declining monetary or non-monetary benefits to maintain an unbiased coaching environment. Transparency fosters trust and supports a genuine coaching relationship.

ICF Professional Coaches are committed to delivering consistent, high-quality coaching services to all clients, irrespective of compensation forms—be it monetary, pro bono, or barter arrangements. This standard ensures that every client, regardless of race, gender, or social identity, receives equal attention and professionalism in their coaching experience. Whether in a barter agreement or providing coaching to those with limited resources, ICF Professionals maintain their commitment to excellence and integrity, delivering 100% of their value and avoiding any personal or professional advantage that could compromise the coaching relationship. By adhering to these principles, coaches foster an inclusive environment that prioritizes client needs above all else.

ICF Professionals commit to upholding the ICF Code of Ethics in all interactions, taking responsibility for their actions and holding themselves accountable. If they recognize a breach of the Code, either in their own conduct or that of another professional, they are expected to address the issue directly and constructively. If unresolved, the matter should be escalated to a formal authority, such as the ICF Global Assist Line. Professionals are urged to engage in open and respectful dialogue when discussing potential ethical breaches, valuing the perspectives of others and remaining receptive to feedback. Should direct communication fail to resolve the issue, a formal complaint can be initiated through the ICF local ethics committee. For any questions about ethical standards, ICF Professionals can refer to available resources or contact the ICF Ethics Hotline.

This standard emphasizes the importance of ethical practices among individuals associated with ICF Professionals, including office staff, virtual assistants, and service providers like transcription or translation companies who may access client information. It is advisable to have written agreements outlining ethical responsibilities, although cultural preferences may vary regarding documentation. ICF Professionals remain accountable for any misconduct by these individuals during the Ethical Conduct Review process. A best practice includes regularly reviewing and discussing the ICF Code of Ethics with all involved personnel, fostering a commitment that ensures security and adherence to ethical standards for all parties.

Commit to excellence through continuous personal, professional, and ethical development as an ICF Professional. Embrace lifelong learning by engaging with the latest coaching information, such as books, videos, and conferences, while consistently reflecting on your ethical practices. Foster self-awareness by understanding your biases and cultural identity, and actively pursue emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Enhance your professional skills through ongoing education, mentorship, and case supervision, and stay updated with current coaching approaches and scientific findings. Uphold the highest ethical standards by participating in discussions and workshops, and contribute to the coaching profession's growth as a role model for ethical practice. Join the ICF community in embracing these commitments to elevate your coaching practice and impact.

ICF Professionals must recognize and address personal limitations or circumstances that could impair their coaching performance or professional relationships, seeking support and guidance when needed. These limitations may be external or internal and can include personal biases or emotional triggers. To maintain a high standard of coaching, professionals should engage in self-awareness practices and consult with mentors or trusted colleagues. If a conflict persists that affects coaching effectiveness, the ICF Professional should consider suspending or terminating the coaching relationship. Additionally, they are responsible for ensuring their physical and mental well-being, maintaining consistent performance throughout their client engagements.

ICF Professionals must proactively address and resolve any conflicts of interest that may arise in their coaching relationships, whether internal or external. Being in a position that is susceptible to such conflicts, they need to remain vigilant about any financial, personal, or professional advantages that could compromise their integrity. This includes conflicts arising from recommending specific resources, such as assessment firms or training schools. Best practices involve establishing clear agreements with all parties involved and taking personal responsibility to suspend or terminate relationships when necessary. Engaging in coaching supervision can also help identify and navigate potential conflicts effectively.

ICF Professionals are committed to maintaining the privacy of ICF Members by using their contact information—such as email addresses and phone numbers—only with proper authorization. This standard emphasizes the importance of adhering to ICF’s privacy policies, ensuring that no member's contact data is misused or shared without consent. While coaching profiles on the ICF website are public, additional information is typically accessible only to chapter leaders, who are required to follow the Chapter Leader Ethical Guidelines.

As an ICF Professional, I accurately represent my coaching qualifications, expertise, experience, training, certifications, and ICF Credential to uphold transparency and integrity. This includes clear identification of my credentials, such as Associate Certified Coach (ACC), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), or Master Certified Coach (MCC), ensuring that all descriptions are verifiable and current. I adhere to the ICF Brand Manual for proper designation usage and stay informed about the distinctions between credentialing and certification. My training aligns with ICF standards, whether through an Accredited Coaching Training Program (ACTP) or Approved Coaching Specific Training Hours (ACSTH), allowing me to offer clients the highest quality of coaching services.

As an ICF Professional, I commit to making truthful and accurate statements regarding my services, the offerings of the International Coaching Federation (ICF), and the broader coaching profession. I understand the importance of accurately representing the value of coaching, avoiding inflated claims that could mislead potential clients. My role extends beyond providing services; I am an ambassador for the coaching profession, responsible for upholding its reputation globally. This involves distinguishing coaching from other practices like mentoring and counseling while clarifying that client success is ultimately dependent on their engagement and willingness to challenge themselves. I am dedicated to transparency about the coaching process, including its limitations, and to adhering to ICF's values, core competencies, and ethical guidelines.

ICF Professionals have a crucial responsibility to communicate and raise awareness about the ethical standards established by the ICF Code of Ethics. This includes informing clients, sponsors, organizations, and other relevant parties about these standards and the Ethical Conduct Review (ECR) process. By discussing the ECR process during initial meetings and sharing the Code of Ethics, ICF Professionals enhance their credibility and demonstrate a commitment to professional quality. Best practices recommend providing all stakeholders with the complete ICF Ethics Code while emphasizing key sections to reinforce the seriousness of ethical conduct within the coaching profession.

ICF Professionals are dedicated to maintaining clear and culturally sensitive boundaries in all coaching interactions. This standard emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse cultural customs and norms, especially when working in unfamiliar territories. Coaches must be aware of how various factors, such as religion and tradition, can influence the coaching relationship. By actively engaging with local customs and being mindful of physical, emotional, and professional boundaries, ICF Professionals ensure that their coaching practices are respectful and effective. Additionally, they must differentiate between their various roles—such as coach, mentor, or consultant—to prevent any misunderstandings and to promote a supportive coaching environment. Continuous self-reflection and coaching supervision are encouraged to help professionals identify and mitigate biases, fostering an inclusive and respectful coaching experience for all clients.

ICF Professionals are prohibited from engaging in any sexual or romantic relationships with clients or sponsors to protect all parties involved and maintain the integrity of the coaching profession. This standard emphasizes the importance of understanding the appropriate level of intimacy within the coaching relationship and addressing any feelings of attraction or dependency that may arise. Recognizing that strong feelings can develop during coaching, such as trust and emotional connection, the ICF Professional must remain vigilant and self-reflective to manage these dynamics effectively. Should any romantic or sexual feelings emerge, the professional must take immediate action, which may include seeking supervision, clarifying the situation with the involved parties, or terminating the coaching relationship to prioritize the client's interests and ensure a safe coaching environment.

ICF Professionals are committed to upholding fairness and equality in all coaching activities, actively avoiding discrimination based on age, race, gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, and other identities. This standard emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing both conscious and unconscious biases, ensuring that coaching practices do not unfairly favor dominant groups while disadvantaging marginalized individuals. Coaches are encouraged to engage in self-reflection and supervision to maintain the quality of their practice, and they must respect local laws and cultural practices while adhering to the ICF Code of Ethics. By fostering an inclusive coaching environment, ICF Professionals promote a culture of respect and understanding, ensuring that all clients feel valued and supported in their journey.

As an ICF Professional, I prioritize integrity by recognizing and honoring the intellectual property rights of others while only claiming ownership of my own work. Understanding that intellectual property (IP) encompasses creative inventions protected by patents, copyrights, and trademarks, I commit to using others' published or original materials only with explicit written permission. I stay informed about local copyright laws and ensure compliance, including proper citation and attribution practices. Upholding these standards not only protects me from potential legal repercussions but also fosters a culture of respect and collaboration within the coaching profession.

ICF Professionals are committed to conducting coaching research with honesty and adherence to recognized scientific standards and ethical guidelines. They serve as ambassadors for ICF, representing its values, core competencies, and code of ethics. When engaging in formal research, ICF Professionals must ensure informed consent from participants, protect their identities, and transparently communicate how the research findings will be utilized. This includes properly attributing contributions from other publications and following local laws like HIPAA and GDPR. The research may encompass various methodologies and aims to enrich the coaching profession by sharing knowledge, presenting findings, and promoting the benefits of coaching across diverse communities while acknowledging the contributions of others.

ICF Professionals are committed to making a positive societal impact through ethical coaching practices. Emphasizing a philosophy of “doing good” rather than merely “avoiding bad,” they reflect on their actions within the broader context of individual, organizational, and global systems. By adhering to the ICF Code of Ethics, these professionals acknowledge their interconnectedness with clients and the communities they serve, fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and curiosity. This commitment not only enhances personal and professional growth but also ensures that every interaction aligns with ICF core values, promoting a culture of respect and support among colleagues. Embrace the responsibility to “do no harm” and contribute to a thriving coaching community and a better world.