ICF Distinguishes Training Options for Potential Coaches

ICF Ethics and Core Competencies set ICF-Approved Programs apart

LEXINGTON, Ky., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- When people choose to make a career of
coaching, or add coaching skills to their profession, they can be overwhelmed
by the task of finding coach training. The International Coach Federation
(ICF) helps make the decision easier by distinguishing training programs that
meet the highest standards for the coaching industry.

"As coaching has grown across the globe, the number of coach training programs
has grown into the hundreds, possibly thousands," points out ICF President
Karen Tweedie, PCC*. "The ICF Core Competencies and ICF Code of Ethics have
been created and refined over the years by leaders in the field of coaching.
ICF approval of coach training programs serves to distinguish those courses
which are taught in accordance with these high standards."

In order to assist prospective students and promote the further development of
the practice of coaching, the ICF has offered independent coach training
approval since 1999. Each training entity that applies for approval must
demonstrate their commitment to the highest standards for curricula, faculty,
structure and proficiency, in addition to the ICF Code of Ethics and ICF Core
Competencies. Programs are required to renew their approval status every three
years.

The number of ICF-approved programs has steadily grown from five in 1999 to
119 in 2009. These numbers correlate with the steady growth in ICF membership,
demonstrating the heightened interest in coaching as a career over the last
decade and thus the increase in training options. Through program approval,
the ICF identifies for potential coaches and their future clients, qualified
training programs that meet the highest standards set by the world's leading
global organization of professional coaches.

The ICF lists all currently approved programs in the free Training Program
Search Service on its Web site, Coachfederation.org under the Research and
Education tab. This service allows potential students to search for an
ICF-approved program by name, type, location, language or coaching specialty.

If you are interested in finding an ICF-approved program or information on how
to apply for ICF approval, please visit http://www.coachfederation.org.

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. Coaching is a distinct service and differs greatly
from therapy, consulting, mentoring or training. Individuals who engage in a
coaching relationship can expect to experience fresh perspectives on personal
challenges and opportunities, enhanced thinking and decision-making skills,
enhanced interpersonal effectiveness and increased confidence in carrying out
their chosen work and life roles.

The International Coach Federation is the leading global organization for
coaches, with more than 13,800 members in over 90 countries, dedicated to
advancing the coaching profession by setting high ethical standards, providing
independent certification and building a worldwide network of credentialed
coaches. The ICF is the only organization that awards a global credential
which is currently held by over 5,300 coaches worldwide. For more information
on how to become or find an ICF Credentialed coach, please visit our Web site
at http://www.coachfederation.org.

*PCC: Professional Certified Coach, credential awarded by the International
Coach Federation.

ICF HEADQUARTERS CONTACTS:

Ann Belcher, +1.859.226.4428, ann.belcher@coachfederation.org
Kristin Hogue, +1.859.219.3614, kristin.hogue@coachfederation.org
Amy Richardson, +1.859.219.3550, amy.richardson@coachfederation.org

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SOURCE International Coach Federation

Ann Belcher, +1-859-226-4428, ann.belcher@coachfederation.org, or Kristin
Hogue, +1-859-219-3614, kristin.hogue@coachfederation.org, or Amy Richardson,
+1-859-219-3550, amy.richardson@coachfederation.org, all of ICF