Coaching Definitions

"Client" - the individual or team/group being coached, the coach being mentored or supervised, or the coach or student being trained.

"Coaching" - partnering with Clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

"Coaching Relationship" - a relationship that is established under an agreement or a contract that defines the responsibilities and expectations of each party.

"Confidentiality" - protection of any information obtained around the coaching engagement unless consent to release is given.

"Conflict of Interest" - a situation in which a coach is involved in multiple interests where serving one interest could work against or be in conflict with another. This could be financial, personal, or otherwise.

"Ethics" - the standards by which a coach operates.

Coaching Ethics

At Positive Ripples Coaching, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and respect in every coaching relationship. Our Code of Ethics guides our behavior and decision-making to ensure our clients experience coaching that is safe, respectful, and transformative.

Informed Engagement: Before beginning any coaching engagement, we ensure that the client (and sponsor, if applicable) understands the purpose of coaching, the scope and limitations of confidentiality, and all financial and logistical terms of the coaching agreement.

Written Agreements: We provide a written agreement outlining the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved before coaching begins.

Confidentiality: We uphold the confidentiality of all clients, including compliance with applicable laws concerning personal data and communication.

Respect for Privacy: We do not disclose client names, details, or stories without express, written consent—and we never pressure clients to share their experiences for marketing or promotional purposes.

Conflict of Interest: We disclose and manage any conflicts of interest with transparency and professionalism.

Right to Terminate: We honor the right of both client and coach to end the coaching relationship at any time, as outlined in the coaching agreement.

Scope of Practice: We maintain clear boundaries of coaching, focusing on present and future goals within the context of a client’s healthy, functioning emotional state.

Referral to Mental Health Professionals: When appropriate, we recommend clients seek licensed mental health professionals for support with past traumas, mental health concerns, or emotional needs beyond the scope of coaching.

Professional Boundaries: We avoid romantic involvement with clients or sponsors. If the nature of a relationship changes, we end the coaching engagement to maintain ethical integrity.

Commitment to Growth: We actively engage in ongoing personal and professional development as part of our commitment to excellence and integrity in coaching.

Truth in Representation: We communicate our professional experience, education, training, and credentials honestly and accurately.