ICF Credentialing Policy Manual Version 7-30-09 Table of Contents (major and next level headings only) (Click topic title to navigate) 1. SCOPE... 5 1.1. Purpose of the ICF credentialing program... 5 2. NORMATIVE REFERENCES... 6 3. TERMS AND DEFINITIONS... 7 4. REQUIREMENTS OF THE CREDENTIALING BODY... 13 4.1. Board of Directors... 13 4.2. Credentialing Governance Council (CGC)... 13 4.3. Director of Credentialing (DOC)... 14 4.4. Procedure for Rule Making... 14 5. REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONS EMPLOYED OR APPOINTED TO CARRY OUT THE WORK OF THE CREDENTIALING PROGRAM... 16 5.1. Volunteers... 16 5.1.1. Regular... 16 5.1.1.1. Assessors... 16 5.1.1.2. Reviewers of Training Programs... 16 5.1.2. Ad Hoc... 16 5.1.2.1.1. Task Force Or Committee Member... 17 5.2. ICF Staff... 17 5.3. Contracted Entities... 17 6. CREDENTIALING REQUIREMENTS AND PROCESSES... 18 6.1. Associate Certified Coach (ACC)... 18 6.1.1. ACC Application Process... 18 6.1.2. ACC Credential Requirements... 18 6.1.3. ACC Application Evaluation... 19 Page 1 of 219
6.1.4. ACC Credentialing Examination... 19 6.1.5. ACC Decision on Credential... 21 6.1.6. ACC Appeal of Exam Results... 21 6.1.7. ACC Renewal of Credential... 22 6.1.8. ACC Use of Logos/Marks... 24 6.2. Professional Certified Coach (PCC)... 25 6.2.1. PCC Application Process... 25 6.2.2. PCC Credential Requirements... 25 6.2.3. PCC Application Evaluation... 26 6.2.4. PCC Credentialing Examination... 26 6.2.5. PCC Decision on Credential... 29 6.2.6. PCC Appeal of Exam Results... 29 6.2.7. PCC Renewal of Credential... 30 6.2.8. PCC Use of Logos/Marks... 32 6.3. Master Certified Coach (MCC)... 33 6.3.1. MCC Application Process... 33 6.3.2. MCC Credential Requirements... 33 6.3.3. MCC Application Evaluation... 33 6.3.4. MCC Credentialing Examination... 34 6.3.5. MCC Decision on Credential... 36 6.3.6. MCC Appeal of Exam Results... 37 6.3.7. MCC Renewal of Credential... 37 6.3.8. MCC Use of Logos/Marks... 39 APPENDICES... 41 Appendix A... 41 ICF CODE OF ETHICS... 41 Appendix B... 45 ICF PROFESSIONAL COACHING CORE COMPETENCIES... 45 Appendix C... 50 MINIMUM SKILL REQUIREMENTS COMPETENCY BY COMPETENCY FOR ACC CREDENTIALING... 50 Appendix D... 60 MINIMUM SKILL REQUIREMENTS COMPETENCY BY COMPETENCY FOR PCC CREDENTIALING... 60 Appendix E... 72 MINIMUM SKILL REQUIREMENTS COMPETENCY BY COMPETENCY FOR MCC CREDENTIALING... 72 Appendix F... 84 ICF CORE COMPETENCIES COMPARED BY CREDENTIAL... 84 Appendix G... 102 Requirements for ICF Credentials... 102 Page 2 of 219
Appendix H... 103 Guides to Individual Credential Applications... 103 ACC ACTP Application... 103 Sample of Online Statements of Agreement and Compliance... 107 Upload 1: Coach-Specific Training... 111 Upload 2: Client-Coaching Hours... 113 Upload 3: Coaching Reference Letters... 118 PAYMENT INFORMATION... 125 ACC Portfolio Application... 128 General Information and Instructions... 129 STATEMENT OF AGREEMENT AND COMPLIANCE... 134 Upload 1: Coach-Specific Training... 137 Upload 2: Mentor Coaching... 139 Upload 3: Record of Client-Coaching Hours... 141 Upload 3: Coaching Reference Letters... 143 ACC PORTFOLIO EXAM INFORMATION... 145 PAYMENT INFORMATION... 146 PCC ACTP Application... 147 Sample of Online Statements of Agreement and Compliance... 150 Upload 1: Coach-Specific Training... 154 Upload 2: Client-Coaching Hours... 156 Upload 3: Coaching Reference Letters... 161 PAYMENT INFORMATION... 167 PCC Portfolio Application... 170 General Information and Instructions... 172 STATEMENTS OF AGREEMENT AND COMPLIANCE... 176 Upload 1: Coach-Specific Training... 179 Upload 2: Mentor Coaching... 182 Upload 3: Record of Client-Coaching Hours... 184 Upload 4: Coaching Reference Letters... 187 Upload 5: Recording of Coaching Session... 189 *The ICF Portfolio Exam:... 191 Written and Live Exam Preferences... 192 PAYMENT INFORMATION... 193 MCC Portfolio Application... 194 General Information and Instructions... 196 STATEMENTS OF AGREEMENT AND COMPLIANCE... 200 Upload 1: Completion of Coach-Specific Training... 203 Upload 2: Record of Mentor Coaching... 206 Upload 3: Record of Client Coaching Hours... 209 Upload 4: Coaching Reference Letters... 211 Upload 5: Recording of Coaching Session... 213 RELEASE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION... 215 THE ICF PORTFOLIO EXAM:... 216 Upload 8: Written and Live Exam Preferences... 218 PAYMENT INFORMATION... 219 Page 3 of 219
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1. SCOPE 1.1. Purpose of the ICF credentialing program 1.1.1. Establish and administer minimum standards for credentialing professional coaches and coach training programs. 1.1.2. Assure the public that participating coaches and coach training programs meet or exceed these minimum standards. 1.1.3. Through those standards, reinforce professional coaching as a distinct and self-regulating profession. Page 5 of 219
2. NORMATIVE REFERENCES 2.1. ICF Definition of Coaching and Code of Ethics (Appendix A) 2.2. ICF Coaching Core Competencies (Appendix B) 2.3. Minimum Skills Requirements for ACC (Appendix C) 2.4. Minimum Skills Requirements for PCC (Appendix D) 2.5. Minimum Skills Requirements for MCC (Appendix E) 2.6. ICF Core Competencies Compared (Appendix F) 2.7. Requirements for ICF Credentials (Appendix G) Page 6 of 219
3. TERMS AND DEFINITIONS 3.1. ACC- Associate Certified Coach. The Practiced Coach 3.2. ACSTH- Approved Coach Specific Training Hour 3.3. ACTP- Accredited Coach Training Program which consists of a minimum of 125 hours of training at the PCC level, and an examination process which must be passed at the PCC level 3.4. Applicant- The person who has completed and submitted an ACC, PCC or MCC application. 3.5. Assessor- an ICF credentialed coach who is trained to evaluate an ICF portfolio exam. 3.6. Bias- prejudice; a particular tendency or inclination, especially one that prevents unprejudiced consideration of a question. 3.7. Board of Directors- The governing body which is responsible for overseeing the management of the affairs, funds, and property of the ICF. 3.8. Candidate- An applicant who has passed the technical review of their application and is in the queue for their exam to be scheduled. 3.9. CCE- Continuing Coach Education 3.10. CCEC- Continuing Coach Education Credit 3.11. CCEU- Continuing Coach Education Unit 3.12. CGC- Credentialing Governance Council 3.13. Client- The person receiving coaching. 3.14. Client Coach Log- Documentation of the applicants coaching hours (paid/probono) that include start and end dates and are classified under: individual, group or internal/3 rd party. 3.15. Client Coach Hour- Sixty (60) minutes coaching time with a person who has hired the applicant/candidate as a coach, with whom the applicant/candidate has a formal coaching agreement, and is coaching rather than providing any other service such as consulting or therapy. 3.16. Client Release Form- A signed written agreement between the applicant, the client allowing a recording to be used in the facilitation of the portfolio exam and assessor training processes. Page 7 of 219
3.17. Coach-Specific Training- Training that is predominantly marketed as teaching coaching skills and not something else and where the major emphasis is on coaching skills or applying technical skills as a coach and in a manner consistent with the ICF Core Competencies. 3.17.1. Coach Specific Training that qualifies is: 3.17.1.1. Training from an Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP) or a program that has received the ICF Approved Coach Specific Training Hours (ACSTH) designation or training that is specifically marketed as teaching coaching skills, that teaches coaching skills or teaches how to apply technical skills in a coach-like manner and teaches coaching skills in accordance with the ICF Core Coaching Competencies. 3.17.2. Non Coach Specific Training includes: 3.17.2.1. Training that is marketed as teaching other skills, even though the skills can be used by a coach in some manner, and does not qualify as Coach Specific Training. In addition, personal development courses such as Forum, Landmark, Lifespring, Life Training, and Science of the Mind, and do not qualify as coach specific training. 3.17.2.2. Education in cognate fields such as psychology, counseling, personal development, NLP, or other closely related disciplines, does not qualify as Coach Specific Training. While some skills from other fields can be used in the coaching environment, in order for this training to qualify as Coach-Specific it must meet the criteria by being taught as coach training from an ICF Core Competencies perspective.. 3.17.2.3. Courses teaching specific tools (i.e., Emotional Intelligence or Personality Assessments) do not qualify as Coach Specific Training. If however, a course in one of these areas teaches how to apply other professional or technical tools as coaching skills and is taught primarily as a coaching course, it may then qualify as Coach Specific Training. 3.17.2.4. When applying for a credential, applicants must provide documentation clearly illustrating that their training is in alignment with ICF Core Competencies 3.18. Committees- a group of persons elected or appointed to perform some service or function within the ICF. 3.19. Conflict of Interest- Exploitation of any aspect of a relationship for personal, professional, or monetary advantage or benefit. A circumstance where bias is present or may be created, especially as it relates to evaluation of an applicant. Page 8 of 219
3.20. Core Competencies- A group of terms which embody the skills and approaches used within the coaching profession as defined by the ICF. 1- Meeting Ethical Guidelines and Professional Standards 2- Establishing the Coaching Agreement 3- Establishing Trust and Intimacy with the Client 4- Coaching Presence 5- Active Listening 6- Powerful Questioning 7- Direct Communication 8- Creating Awareness 9- Designing Actions 10- Planning and Goal Setting 11- Managing Progress and Accountability 3.21. Designated Self Study Courses- The study of coach-specific training by oneself without direct supervision or attendance in class. 3.22. Developing Geographic Region- An area of the world where coaching is not yet matured. 3.23. Ethical Conduct Review Process (ECR) - A policy and set of procedures that provide review, investigation and response to alleged unethical practices or behavior deviating from the established ICF Code of Ethics by ICF members and ICF credentialed coaches. Serves as a model of excellence for all practicing professional coaches for fair review and resolution of complaints concerning the ethical conduct of ICF member and ICF credentialed coaches; and is responsive to complaints from the public concerning experiences believed to be violations of the ICF Code of Ethics by ICF members and ICF credentialed coaches. 3.24. Feedback- Comments regarding the candidates performance in the ICF exam process. 3.25. Global headquarters- The administrative/staff offices of the ICF located in Lexington, Kentucky, USA. 3.26. Grandfathering- A prior ICF process that allowed a coach to obtain a credential based solely on their resume and subsequent experience. Grandfathering is no longer allowed and all persons seeking a credential must complete the full application process. 3.27. Homework- Supplemental assignment(s) to be completed outside of a training setting. 3.28. ICF- The International Coach Federation is the largest worldwide resource for business and personal coaches, and the source for those who are seeking a coach. The ICF is a nonprofit, individual membership organization formed by professionals worldwide who practice business and personal coaching. The ICF exists to Build, Support and Preserve the integrity of the coaching profession through programs and standards supported by the individual membership. Page 9 of 219
3.29. ISO Standard 17024:2003(E) - A standard developed and adopted by the International Organization for Standardization that pertains specifically to the general requirements for bodies operating certification of persons. This standard has been adopted by the ICF as a framework for making decisions regarding the enhancement of the ICF Credentialing Program. 3.30. Letter of Recommendation- Documentation that supports an applicant s pursuit of an ICF credential. 3.30.1. For US/Canada Applicants - A letter from an ICF credentialed coach who has heard the applicant coach and who can verify the coaching skills and expertise of the applicant toward the credential for which he/she is applying. 3.30.2. For Non-US/Canada Applicants- A letter from an ICF credentialed coach or one who is actively involved in an ICF Chapter, or a letter from an ICF credentialed coach who has heard the applicant coach and who can verify the coaching skills and expertise of the applicant toward the credential for which he/she is applying 3.30.3. Letter of recommendation must: 3.30.3.1. Come from coaches who have actually heard or observed the applicant coaching and state that the writer has heard or observed the applicant coaching 3.30.3.2. Contain a statement from the referring coach that he or she believes the applicant coaches at the level of credential for which the applicant is applying and therefore is recommending the applicant for that specific credential. 3.30.3.3. Be written on the referring coach s stationery or from his or her e-mail address. It may be forwarded through e-mail, but it must clearly have originated from the referring coach s e-mail address, or on his or her stationery, if submitted via regular mail. 3.31. Letter of Reference- A letter written by the coach s supervisor of his/her internal/3 rd party coaching which verifies: 1- that the applicant was hired as a coach 2- the hours listed on the Client Log 3- that the organization has a confidentiality agreement which prevented the applicant from listing the names and contact information of their clients. 3.32. MCC- Master Certified Coach. The Expert Coach 3.33. Mentor Coach- A coach who coaches the applicant on their coaching. The mentor coach also has the ability to write a letter of recommendation, if he or she meets the requirements as defined in policy. Page 10 of 219
3.34. Mentoring- definition under discussion by ICF Board 3.35. Number of Clients- The amount of client(s) in a coaching session. 3.36. Objectivity- A form of judgment that is based upon fact; something that is quantitative. 3.37. Oral Exam- A coaching session in which the assessor acts as the client and provides a numerical score and comments for use by the ICF headquarters in compiling results for the applicant. 3.38. Paid Hours- An increment of time spent coaching that is compensated by monetary value or barter. 3.39. PCC- Professional Certified Coach. The Proven Coach 3.40. Portfolio- The type of application for any applicant who has not successfully completed an Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP). 3.41. Pro-Bono Hours- An increment of time spent coaching in which no form of payment is exchanged for the coaching services. 3.42. Proof of Successful Completion of a minimum of 125 hours of training and a successful examination process from the ACTP- A document from the training organization verifying the applicants completion of the ACTP, demonstrating coaching skills at the PCC level, via an examination process provided by the training program. 3.43. Recording (applicant submitted)- A recording of the applicant coaching a client which is submitted with the PCC or MCC portfolio application as agreed upon in the Client Release Form. 3.44. Recording -(ICF supervised/authenticated)- A recording of a coaching session that has been made with at least one ICF assessor. 3.45. Subjectivity- A form of judgment that is based upon opinion; qualitative. 3.46. Supervision- definition under discussion by ICF Board 3.47. Statement of Agreement & Compliance- A written agreement of the rules and regulations by which the applicant agrees to abide once signed by the applicant and submitted with the application for which he/she is applying. 3.48. Technical Review Process- The process of reviewing an application to ensure that all requirements have been met 3.49. Written Exam- Consists of questions requiring short answers as well as three case studies. This exam is administered through e-mail after an application passes technical review. Applicants are given 48 hours to complete the exam and submit their responses to ICF headquarters. Page 11 of 219
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4. REQUIREMENTS OF THE CREDENTIALING BODY 4.1. Board of Directors 4.1.1. The ICF Board of Directors shall set policy related to the credentialing program. Policy refers to the requirements that an individual must meet in order to obtain an individual credential. 4.1.2. The ICF Board of Directors shall make recommendations to the ICF President for membership on the Credentialing Governance Council (CGC) according to established policy. 4.1.3. The ICF Board of Directors shall not be involved in the day to day operations of the credentialing program, nor shall the Board have access to confidential information, applications, or documents filed by applicants except as specifically set out in this manual. 4.2. Credentialing Governance Council (CGC) 4.2.1. The CGC shall provide oversight and guidance in the interpretation and administration of the credentialing policies set by the ICF Board of Directors. 4.2.2. The CGC shall develop and recommend policy additions, deletions, and changes to the ICF Board of Directors for their consideration. 4.2.3. Communicate policy and policy changes to members and other interested parties in a timely fashion. 4.2.4. The CGC shall prepare an annual report regarding the state of the ICF Credentialing Program. 4.2.5. Chairs and Membership of the CGC 4.2.5.1. The CGC shall have a chair or chairs. The chair or chairs shall be responsible for setting the agenda for and chairing CGC meetings, working closely with the Director of Credentialing to insure the efficient and fair interpretation of credentialing policy and rules and to make decisions on matters for which rules have not yet been established. 4.2.5.2. The CGC chair(s) shall, along with the Director of Credentialing, serve as an official spokesperson for credentialing to members, the press, and the public. 4.2.5.3. CGC chair(s) shall be volunteers and shall not be paid for their work on behalf of the ICF credentialing program. Expenses, however, shall be reimbursed. Page 13 of 219
4.2.5.4. The CGC shall not have more than 20 members nor less than 10 members. 4.2.5.5. The ICF President shall select members for the CGC and report their appointments to the ICF Board of Directors. There shall be at least one member from each of the following areas: US, Canada, Europe (including the United Kingdom), Asia, and Australia/New Zealand. Other areas may be represented at the President s discretion. The CGC shall also have as members at least one coach from each individual level of credentialing. The CGC, at the President s discretion, may also appoint one uncredentialed member as a member of the CGC. A member may fill more than one of the above criteria (example: an MCC from France would fulfill both the European and MCC membership requirements). 4.3. Director of Credentialing (DOC) 4.3.1. The DOC shall be the ICF staff person responsible for the administration of the ICF credentialing program. 4.3.2. The DOC shall report to the ICF Executive Director. The DOC shall work closely with the chair or chairs of the CGC in regards to the efficient and fair interpretation of credentialing policy and rules and to make decisions on matters for which rules have not yet been established. 4.3.3. The DOC shall be responsible for the supervision and direction of all staff members employed in the operation of the credentialing program. 4.3.4. The DOC shall be responsible for the training, supervision, and coordination of personnel assigned to conduct credential exams. 4.3.5. The DOC shall be responsible for the oversight and coordination of credentialing activities carried out by contracted entities. 4.3.6. The DOC shall recommend new rules for vote to the CGC, and make recommendations for policy changes or additions to the CGC. 4.3.7. The DOC, along with the CGC chair(s) shall serve as an official spokesperson for credentialing to members, the press, and the public. 4.4. Procedure for Rule Making Page 14 of 219
4.4.1. Any CGC discussions shall be confidential except as specifically authorized by the committee chair. 4.4.2. The CGC shall meet at least quarterly. 4.4.3. Minutes of all CGC meetings shall be taken by ICF staff and approved by CGC members. Such minutes shall be retained for five years by ICF staff. 4.4.4. Recommendations for policy additions, deletions, or changes may be brought forward by the CGC Chair/s, by any CGC member, by the DOC, or by members of the ICF Board of Directors. 4.4.5. Consideration of any policy additions, deletions, or changes will be discussed by the CGC and adopted only though formal motion and vote. Approved recommendations will be forwarded to the ICF Board of Directors for their consideration. Page 15 of 219
5. REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONS EMPLOYED OR APPOINTED TO CARRY OUT THE WORK OF THE CREDENTIALING PROGRAM 5.1. Volunteers 5.1.1. Regular 5.1.1.1. Assessors 5.1.1.1.1. Qualifications 5.1.1.1.1.1. Satisfactory completion of an ACTP 5.1.1.1.1.2. PCC or higher credential 5.1.1.1.1.3. Full disclosure of any affiliation with education or training programs 5.1.1.1.2. Training 5.1.1.1.2.1. Completes initial Assessor training phase 5.1.1.1.2.1.1. Agrees to Assessor Commitment statement 5.1.1.1.2.1.2. Agrees to Assessor Conflict of Interest statement 5.1.1.1.2.2. Conducts x assessments per year 5.1.1.1.3. Verification of Competency 5.1.1.1.3.1. Continues periodic Assessor training as determined by requirements for distinction 5.1.1.1.3.2. Successfully completes evaluation phase within acceptable range 5.1.1.1.3.3. Conducts x assessments per year 5.1.1.2. Reviewers of Training Programs 5.1.1.2.1. Qualifications 5.1.1.2.1.1. Satisfactory completion of an ACTP. 5.1.1.2.1.2. PCC or higher credential 5.1.1.2.1.3. Full disclosure of any affiliation with education or training programs 5.1.1.2.2. Training 5.1.1.2.2.1. Completes initial Reviewer of Programs training phase 5.1.1.2.2.1.1. Agrees to Reviewer of Programs Commitment statement 5.1.1.2.2.1.2. Agrees to Reviewer of Programs Conflict of Interest statement 5.1.1.2.2.2. Conducts x Program Reviews per year 5.1.1.2.3. Verification of Competency 5.1.1.2.3.1. Continues periodic Reviewer of Programs training as determined by requirements for distinction 5.1.1.2.3.2. Successfully completes evaluation phase within acceptable range 5.1.1.2.3.3. Conducts x Program Reviews per year 5.1.2. Ad Hoc Page 16 of 219
5.1.2.1.1. Task Force Or Committee Member 5.1.2.1.1.1. Qualifications 5.1.2.1.1.1.1. Satisfactory completion of an ACTP 5.1.2.1.1.1.2. ACC or higher credential. 5.1.2.1.1.1.3. Discloses any affiliation with education or training program 5.1.2.1.1.1.4. Has subject matter expertise for task or issue 5.1.2.1.1.1.5. Agrees to Commitment, Responsibility, Conflict of Interest and/or Confidentiality statements, as deemed necessary by the task or issue Chair and/or ICF staff member responsible for the project 5.1.2.1.1.2. Training 5.1.2.1.1.2.1. Participates in training for assignment 5.1.2.1.1.2.2. Participates in assigned task or issue responsibilities 5.1.2.1.1.3. Verification of Competency 5.1.2.1.1.3.1. NA pre- verified 5.2. ICF Staff 5.2.1. Qualifications 5.2.2. Training 5.2.3. Verification of Competency 5.3. Contracted Entities 5.3.1. Qualifications 5.3.2. Training 5.3.3. Verification of Competency Page 17 of 219
6. Credentialing Requirements and Processes 6.1. Associate Certified Coach (ACC) 6.1.1. ACC Application Process 6.1.1.1. Interested individuals shall apply for the credential by completing and submitting to the ICF global headquarters one of the following application types: 6.1.1.1.1. Associate Certified Coach Application Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP) Graduate 6.1.1.1.2. Associate Certified Coach Application -- Portfolio 6.1.1.2. All application forms shall be made available to interested parties through the ICF web site. 6.1.1.3. Application forms may be submitted by ground mail or by electronic means. 6.1.2. ACC Credential Requirements 6.1.2.1. Applicants for the ACC Credential must meet one of the following sets of requirements (ACTP or Portfolio): 6.1.2.1.1. ACC ACTP 6.1.2.1.1.1. Successful completion of certification requirements with an ACTP 6.1.2.1.1.2. A minimum of 100 hours of work with clients 6.1.2.1.1.3. A minimum of 75 of the 100 required hours as paid hours 6.1.2.1.1.4. A minimum of 8 clients 6.1.2.1.1.5. Reference letters from 2 qualified coaches 6.1.2.1.1.6. Payment of application fees 6.1.2.1.2. ACC Portfolio 6.1.2.1.2.1. Sixty (60) hours of Coach-Specific Training 6.1.2.1.2.2. Ten (10) hours of work with a qualified Mentor Coach 6.1.2.1.2.3. A minimum of 100 hours of work with clients 6.1.2.1.2.4. A minimum of 75 of the 100 required hours as paid hours 6.1.2.1.2.5. A minimum of 8 clients 6.1.2.1.2.6. Reference letters from 2 qualified coaches 6.1.2.1.2.7. Payment of application fees Page 18 of 219
6.1.3. ACC Application Evaluation 6.1.3.1. All applications submitted to the ICF headquarters will be reviewed by ICF staff to ensure that the application is complete, that fees have been paid, and that all requirements have been met. 6.1.3.2. Applications that are reviewed and approved will advance through the process to be considered for award of a credential. 6.1.3.3. Applicants that have submitted applications that do not meet requirements as identified during the review of the application will receive communications from staff advising the applicant of how to resolve their problem/s. 6.1.3.4. In the event that staff cannot determine whether one or more requirements have been met, the staff will forward the application to a volunteer technical reviewer who has been trained to perform the review of applications. 6.1.3.5. Volunteer technical reviewers will submit their decision to the ICF staff regarding whether requirements have been met within two weeks of receiving the applicant file. 6.1.4. ACC Credentialing Examination 6.1.4.1. ACC ACTP applicants are exempt from the ICF ACC Exam 6.1.4.2. ACC Portfolio applicants must successfully complete the ACC credentialing exam to be granted the ACC credential 6.1.4.3. The ACC credentialing exam shall be conducted by those individuals who have been trained and approved to serve as ICF Assessors. 6.1.4.4. Assessors assessing the ACC exam shall be looking for good basic coaching skills in alignment with ICF Core Competencies and the Definition of Coaching. Assessors overall assessment will consider whether a basic understanding and use of ICF Core Competencies is demonstrated, whether the competence skills are demonstrated in a manner where by the coaching is focused on clients needs and agreed upon coaching goals, and whether a basic range of competencies is demonstrated that is appropriate for the coaching session. The assessors shall also evaluate whether a basic level of partnership with the client exists within the session. It is expected that at the ACC level an applicant will show some propensity to lead the client and some propensity toward directing the client. Page 19 of 219
6.1.4.5. The ACC exam is one part oral exam that consists of the assessor presenting the applicant with a real situation from their life or work, which the applicant shall coach for up to one half hour. The situation given the applicant to coach shall be a simple, straightforward situation that can be coached in thirty minutes and that forward movement can be made on in thirty minutes. A complete solution to the situation should not be expected nor is it necessary for passage of the exam. The situation presented to the applicant should not have any therapy or other ethical consideration overtones. 6.1.4.6. The assessors for the ACC exam shall use the evaluation form and shall follow the instructions for assessment contained in Appendix G 6.1.4.7. Assessors for the ACC exam shall call the applicant at the time appointed for the exam. Assessors shall explain the exam process to the applicant using the script attached in Appendix G. 6.1.4.8. The applicant has up to thirty minutes to coach, but may coach for less than thirty minutes if the applicant feels complete with the coaching. The applicant shall not be assessed on the quantity of time spent coaching and shall be assessed only on the quality of coaching done during that period of time. 6.1.4.9. Throughout the live session, the applicant is expected to coach, interact, and handle issues presented by the client in the same manner as they would with a real client. 6.1.4.10. At the end of the coaching, the assessor shall give the applicant 10-15 minutes of feedback on what competencies they demonstrated well and what competencies the applicant should continue to work on with their mentor coach. 6.1.4.11. Assessors shall not indicate to the applicant the substantive quality of the coaching demonstrated nor give the result of the exam. The assessors shall only comment on competencies demonstrated or need work. (add to training for assessors as it is not clearly understood that results should not be communicated by the assessor) 6.1.4.12. After the call is done, the assessors shall complete the ACC Assessor form including the overall rating. The assessor shall score the exam and determine the overall Page 20 of 219
rating in a manner described in the assessor instructions contained in Appendix G. After completing the evaluation form, the assessor shall fax the form to the Director of Credentialing and return the hard copy by mail to the lcf office. 6.1.5. ACC Decision on Credential 6.1.5.1. ICF staff shall be responsible for collecting and reviewing all relevant application and exam materials and utilizing these in determining whether to award a credential. 6.1.5.2. The decision to award a credential shall be made by the ICF Director of Credentialing based on the approval of the application by staff and/or volunteer technical reviewers, the scores on any required examination as submitted by the Assessor/s and the payment of relevant fees by the applicant. (need to add that final decision is made by ICF Credentialing not by assessor) 6.1.5.3. The numerical scoring guidelines adopted by the ICF shall be used to assign a final score to any required examinations. 6.1.6. ACC Appeal of Exam Results 6.1.6.1.1. Should an applicant fail an exam, the applicant may file an appeal on any or all portions of the exam within 60 days of notification of the failure by sending a letter requesting review to the DOC. 6.1.6.1.2. The letter shall state the grounds for the appeal. 6.1.6.1.3. Appeals may be based only on procedural errors in the exam process and cannot be based on allegations that the assessors mis-graded the exam. 6.1.6.1.4. Upon receipt of the appeal, the DOC shall communicate with both the applicant and the assessors to determine whether a procedural error occurred. 6.1.6.1.5. If a procedural error occurred in the live session, the applicant will be given an immediate opportunity to redo the live session with a new assessor. 6.1.6.1.6. If no procedural error occurred, the appeal will be denied. Page 21 of 219
6.1.7. ACC Renewal of Credential 6.1.7.1. The ACC credential shall be renewed every three years in accordance with the following requirements: 6.1.7.1.1. ACC s shall renew their credential by completing the application for renewal and submitting it to the ICF office in December of the year of renewal and paying the fee designated by the ICF. 6.1.7.1.2. Renewal of the ACC credential is contingent on the credential holder applying for a renewal and providing evidence of the following: 6.1.7.1.3. Completion of 40 hours of Continuing Coach Education that has occurred over the preceding three years. All continuing education must have occurred after the date of the original certification or last renewal. The 40 hours of CCE hours are to include: 6.1.7.1.3.1. A minimum of 24 hours in the ICF Core Competencies. If the supporting documentation shows less than 40 hours CCE in the Core Competencies, a maximum of 16 hours focusing on personal development, practice building or other skills & tools applicable to coaching may be used. 6.1.7.1.3.2. Completion of 10 hours work with a qualified mentor coach. All mentoring hours must have occurred after the date of the original certification or last renewal. 6.1.7.1.3.3. For purposes of this renewal, mentor coaching means a renewal applicant being coached on their coaching skills rather than coaching on practice building, life balance, or other topics unrelated to the development of an applicant s coaching skill. 6.1.7.1.3.4. For applicants that reside in the United States or Canada mentor coaches must hold an ICF PCC or MCC Credential. For applicants that reside outside of the United States or Canada, mentor coaches must either hold an ICF PCC or MCC Credential, or be actively involved in an ICF Chapter, or be actively involved in another coaching Page 22 of 219
association that holds similar definitions of coaching as the ICF. 6.1.7.1.4. Group coaching may count towards the mentoring requirement of 10 hours within the framework described. No more than 70% of the required mentoring hours (that is seven hours) can come from group coaching. Additionally, the group being mentored may not consist of more than 10 participants. 6.1.7.2. Renewal/Termination process 6.1.7.2.1. By July 1 each year, staff will conduct a review of the credential data files to create a list of credentials that will expire on December 31. 6.1.7.2.2. By August 1, staff will send e-mail and hard copy notices to credential holders on the list reminding them that their credential will be expiring and advising them of the renewal process and the consequences of failure to renew. An additional e- mail notice will be sent by October 1 as a reminder of the pending expiration. 6.1.7.2.3. Prior to the December 31 expiration deadline, affected credential holders must complete and submit a renewal application or a request for extension to the ICF headquarters. 6.1.7.2.4. Credential holders who do not submit a renewal application by the December 31 deadline will be notified by e-mail and hard copy by January 15 that their credential has expired. At this time they will be offered an extension to March 31 if they still wish to renew their credential. This will be the final notice that the credential holder will receive as a reminder to renew their credential. 6.1.7.2.5. By the March 31 extension deadline all renewal applications must have been received by the ICF headquarters. 6.1.7.2.6. All applications for renewal will be reviewed by appropriate staff to determine if the requirements for renewal have been met. If staff determines that the application is complete and that all requirements have been met a new credential will be issued. Page 23 of 219
6.1.7.2.7. If staff determines that requirements have not been met or that no renewal application was submitted, the staff will issue a letter notifying the credential holder that their credential has been terminated. 6.1.7.2.8. All decisions regarding the status of credential renewals and terminations will be completed by April 15. 6.1.7.2.9. Credential holders that have had their credential terminated will be informed that: 6.1.7.2.9.1. Their credential will no longer be listed on the ICF web site 6.1.7.2.9.2. They may no longer have use of the ICF Credential Logos 6.1.7.2.9.3. Their membership status will be changed to Affiliate Member 6.1.7.2.9.4. To be awarded a new credential, will be required to apply as a candidate for initial certification 6.1.8. ACC Use of Logos/Marks 6.1.8.1. Coaches who have earned an ICF ACC credential may use the ACC logo on marketing and promotional materials, including on personal Web sites, business cards, etc, while they have a current/valid credential. 6.1.8.2. Conditions of Use 6.1.8.2.1. All ICF credential logos are intended for individual use and may not be shared with other coaches. 6.1.8.2.2. Coaches must have a current ICF credential to use the corresponding ICF credential logo and must immediately discontinue use of the logo on all materials when and if their credential should expire. 6.1.8.2.3. The logo may not be altered in any way. 6.1.8.2.4. The logo may be displayed on different neutral backgrounds, so long as those backgrounds do not conflict graphically with the clear appearance, readability, and recognition of the logo. Page 24 of 219
6.1.8.2.5. The logo may not be displayed on patterned backgrounds (such as polka dots, wavy lines, etc.) that alter the character and message. 6.1.8.2.6. The logo is available in solid black, solid white and in color. 6.1.8.2.7. The colors may not be altered or tinted. 6.1.8.2.8. The logo is a graphic symbol, not a text character. It is not to be used as part of a sentence or headline. 6.1.8.2.9. The logo is not to be positioned so closely to another logo or name that a reader might mistakenly infer an affiliation by virtue of the logo s proximity. 6.2. Professional Certified Coach (PCC) 6.2.1. PCC Application Process 6.2.1.1. Interested individuals shall apply for the credential by completing and submitting to the ICF global headquarters one of the following application types: 6.2.1.1.1. Professional Certified Coach Application Accredited Coach Training Program Graduate 6.2.1.1.2. Professional Certified Coach Application -- Portfolio 6.2.1.2. All application forms shall be made available to interested parties through the ICF web site. 6.2.1.3. Application forms may be submitted by ground mail or by electronic means. 6.2.2. PCC Credential Requirements 6.2.2.1. Applicants for the PCC Credential must meet one of the following sets of requirements (ACTP or Portfolio): 6.2.2.1.1. PCC ACTP 6.2.2.1.1.1. Successful completion of certification requirements with an ACTP 6.2.2.1.1.2. A minimum of 750 hours of work with clients 6.2.2.1.1.3. A minimum of 675 of the 750 required hours as paid hours 6.2.2.1.1.4. A minimum of 25 clients Page 25 of 219
6.2.2.1.1.5. Reference letters from 2 qualified coaches 6.2.2.1.1.6. Payment of application fees 6.2.2.1.2. PCC Portfolio 6.2.2.1.2.1. One hundred twenty five (125) hours of Coach-Specific Training 6.2.2.1.2.2. Ten (10) hours of work with a qualified Mentor Coach 6.2.2.1.2.3. A minimum of 750 hours of work with clients 6.2.2.1.2.4. A minimum of 675 of the 750 required hours as paid hours 6.2.2.1.2.5. A minimum of 25 clients 6.2.2.1.2.6. Reference letters from 2 qualified coaches 6.2.2.1.2.7. Payment of application fees 6.2.3. PCC Application Evaluation 6.2.3.1. All applications submitted to the ICF headquarters will be reviewed by ICF staff to ensure that the application is complete, that fees have been paid, and that all requirements have been met. 6.2.3.2. Applications that are reviewed and approved will advance through the process to be considered for award of a credential. 6.2.3.3. Applicants that have submitted applications that do not meet requirements will receive communications from staff advising the applicant of how to resolve their problem/s. 6.2.3.4. In the event that staff cannot determine whether one or more requirements have been met, the staff will forward the application to a volunteer technical reviewer who has been trained to perform the review of applications. 6.2.3.5. Volunteer technical reviewers will submit their decision to the ICF staff regarding whether requirements have been met within two weeks of receiving the applicant file. 6.2.4. PCC Credentialing Examination 6.2.4.1. PCC ACTP applicants are exempt from the ICF PCC Exam 6.2.4.2. PCC Portfolio applicants must successfully complete all parts of the PCC credentialing exam Page 26 of 219
6.2.4.3. The PCC credentialing exam shall be conducted by those individuals who have been trained and approved to serve as ICF Assessors. 6.2.4.4. The Portfolio exam is assessed at the same level of competence regardless of whether the applicant is applying for PCC or MCC. The assessor for any PCC Portfolio exam shall be looking for a middle level of coaching competence. Beginning level is not acceptable for passage of the exam nor is mastery necessary for passage of the exam. The assessors of the PCC Portfolio exam are looking for good and solid use of the ICF Core Coaching Competencies. The overall assessment should consider whether clear coaching has occurred versus some other method of interacting with the client, whether the Core Competencies are demonstrated with the quality, effectiveness, and frequency which matches the client's goals for the coaching situation, whether the Competencies are demonstrated in a manner where the coaching is clearly focused on the client's need and the agreed upon coaching goals for the session, whether the appropriate range of competencies is demonstrated for the particular session or the particular test answer, and whether a clear partnership where the client has a significant role in choosing the agenda and direction of the coaching was established. The assessor should take into account that the PCC level is not mastery and therefore, the assessor will see some reliance on tools, some solution or situational based focus, still some leading of the client or advising, a medium level of ability to hear beneath the surface, and some processing through the coach's own mental models. None of these, however, should dominate the coaching interaction. 6.2.4.5. Procedures for Assessment of the PCC exam 6.2.4.5.1. The PCC exam is a three-part exam consisting of a written exam, a taped session submitted by the applicant and a live session where the applicant shall coach one of his/her assessors. 6.2.4.5.2. Each applicant shall be assigned two assessors and those assessors shall assess all three parts of the applicant's exam. 6.2.4.5.3. Each part of the exam shall be assessed separately and independently of any other part the score on one part of the exam shall not impact the score on any other part of the exam. 6.2.4.6. Procedures for assessment of the written exam Page 27 of 219
6.2.4.6.1. For the written exam, the assessors shall use the evaluation form for the written exam contained in Appendix H, the Answer Key provided by the ICF, and shall follow the instructions for assessment of the written exam contained in Appendix H. The Director of Credentialing shall keep a library of exam versions and keys for each version. The Application Review Committee Chair for individual credentialing shall review and approve each version of the exam and exam key before they are sent to applicants and assessors. 6.2.4.6.2. The PCC written exam shall consist of twenty short answer questions and three case studies. The third case study will be created by the applicant. 6.2.4.6.3. The assessors will score the written exam in accordance with the Instructions for the Assessment of the Written Exam in Appendix H The assessors will score the exam independently of one another and then meet, discuss their scores, and come to a consensus score for each question and each case study. 6.2.4.6.4. One assessor will fill out, fax, and send a hard copy of the consensus score sheet for the written exam to the Director of Credentialing using the evaluation form contained in Appendix?"?"? The evaluation form will contain significant comments on failing answers and the reason for the failing score. 6.2.4.7. Procedures for assessment of the taped session 6.2.4.7.1. For the taped part of the exam, the assessors shall use the evaluation form for the oral exam contained in Appendix H and shall follow the instructions for assessment of the oral exam contained in Appendix H. 6.2.4.7.2. The assessors will score the taped part of the exam in accordance with the Instructions for the Assessment of the Oral Exam in Appendix H. The assessors will score the tape independently of one another and then meet, discuss their scores, and come to a consensus score for taped part. 6.2.4.7.3. One assessor will fill out, fax, and send a hard copy of the consensus score sheet for the taped part of the oral exam to the Director of Credentialing using the evaluation form contained in Appendix H. The Page 28 of 219
evaluation form will contain significant comments on failing answers and the reason for the failing score. 6.2.4.8. Procedures for assessment of the live oral session 6.2.4.8.1. The live oral session shall consist of one assessor presenting the applicant with a real situation from their life or work, which the applicant shall coach for up to one half hour. The other assessor shall serve as timekeeper. 6.2.4.8.2. The situation given the applicant to coach shall be a situation that can be coached in thirty minutes and that forward movement can be made on in thirty minutes. 6.2.4.8.3. A complete solution to the situation should not be expected nor is it necessary for passage of the exam. The situation presented to the applicant should not have any therapy or other ethical consideration overtones, unless the two assessors specifically decide to test that issue. 6.2.4.8.4. Throughout the live session, the applicant is expected to coach, interact, and handle issues presented by the client in the same manner as they would with a real client. 6.2.5. PCC Decision on Credential 6.2.5.1. ICF staff shall be responsible for collecting and reviewing all relevant application and exam materials and utilizing these in determining whether to award a credential. 6.2.5.2. The decision to award a credential shall be made by the ICF Director of Credentialing based on the approval of the application by staff and/or volunteer technical reviewers, the payment of relevant fees, and the scores on any required examination as submitted by the Assessor/s. 6.2.5.3. The numerical scoring guidelines adopted by the ICF shall be used to assign a final score to any required examinations. 6.2.6. PCC Appeal of Exam Results 6.2.6.1.1. Should an applicant fail an exam, the applicant may file an appeal on any or all portions of the exam within 60 days of notification of the failure by sending a letter requesting review to the DOC. Page 29 of 219
6.2.6.1.2. The letter shall state the grounds for the appeal. 6.2.6.1.3. Appeals may be based only on procedural errors in the exam process and cannot be based on allegations that the assessors mis-graded the exam. 6.2.6.1.4. Upon receipt of the appeal, the DOC shall communicate with both the applicant and the assessors to determine whether a procedural error occurred. 6.2.6.1.5. If a procedural error occurred in the tape or written portion of the exam, the applicant s tape or written portion shall be re-graded by a new team of assessors. 6.2.6.1.6. If a procedural error occurred in the live session, the applicant will be given an immediate opportunity to redo the live session with a new team of assessors. 6.2.6.1.7. If no procedural error occurred, the appeal will be denied. 6.2.7. PCC Renewal of Credential 6.2.7.1. The PCC credential shall be renewed every three years in accordance with the following requirements: 6.2.7.2. PCC s shall renew their credential by completing the application for renewal and submitting it to the ICF office in December of the year of renewal and paying the fee designated by the ICF. 6.2.7.3. Renewal of the PCC credential is contingent on the credential holder applying for a renewal and providing evidence of the following: 6.2.7.4. Completion of 40 hours of Continuing Coach Education that has occurred over the preceding three years. All continuing education must have occurred after the date of the original certification or last renewal. The 40 hours of CCE hours are to include: 6.2.7.5. A minimum of 24 hours in the ICF Core Competencies. If the supporting documentation shows less than 40 hours CCE in the Core Competencies, a maximum Page 30 of 219
6.2.7.6. Renewal/Termination process 6.2.7.6.1. By July 1 each year, staff will conduct a review of the credential data files to create a list of credentials that will expire on December 31. 6.2.7.6.2. By August 1, staff will send e-mail and hard copy notices to credential holders on the list reminding them that their credential will be expiring and advising them of the renewal process and the consequences of failure to renew. An additional e- mail notice will be sent by October 1 as a reminder of the pending expiration. 6.2.7.6.3. Prior to the December 31 expiration deadline, affected credential holders must complete and submit a renewal application or a request for extension to the ICF headquarters. 6.2.7.6.4. Credential holders who do not submit a renewal application by the December 31 deadline will be notified by e-mail and hard copy by January 15 that their credential has expired. At this time they will be offered an extension to March 31 if they still wish to renew their credential. This will be the final notice that the credential holder will receive as a reminder to renew their credential. 6.2.7.6.5. By the March 31 extension deadline all renewal applications must have been received by the ICF headquarters. 6.2.7.6.6. If staff determines that requirements have not been met or that no renewal application was submitted, the staff will issue a letter notifying the credential holder that their credential has been terminated. 6.2.7.6.7. All decisions regarding the status of credential renewals and terminations will be completed by April 15. 6.2.7.6.8. Credential holders that have had their credential terminated will be informed that: Page 31 of 219
6.2.7.6.8.1. Their credential will no longer be listed on the ICF web site 6.2.7.6.8.2. They may no longer have use of the ICF Credential Logos 6.2.7.6.8.3. Their membership status will be changed to Affiliate Member 6.2.7.6.8.4. To be awarded a new credential, will be required to apply as a candidate for initial certification 6.2.8. PCC Use of Logos/Marks 6.2.8.1. Coaches who have earned an ICF PCC credential may use the PCC logo on marketing and promotional materials, including on personal Web sites, business cards, etc, while they have a current/valid credential. 6.2.8.2. Conditions of Use 6.2.8.2.1. All ICF credential logos are intended for individual use and may not be shared with other coaches. 6.2.8.2.2. Coaches must have a current ICF credential to use the corresponding ICF credential logo and must immediately discontinue use of the logo on all materials when and if their credential should expire. 6.2.8.2.3. The logo may not be altered in any way. 6.2.8.2.4. The logo may be displayed on different neutral backgrounds, so long as those backgrounds do not conflict graphically with the clear appearance, readability, and recognition of the logo. 6.2.8.2.5. The logo may not be displayed on patterned backgrounds (such as polka dots, wavy lines, etc.) that alter the character and message. 6.2.8.2.6. The logo is available in solid black, solid white and in color. 6.2.8.2.7. The colors may not be altered or tinted. 6.2.8.2.8. The logo is a graphic symbol, not a text character. It is not to be used as part of a sentence or headline. Page 32 of 219