EP 373 - Holding Space for Integrity: Ethics for Faith-Based Coaches

EP 373 - Holding Space for Integrity: Ethics for Faith-Based Coaches

From REALIFE Conversations for Christian Coaches by Teresa McCloy

March 11, 2026 · 31 min · Episode 373

About this episode

The episode discusses the importance of ethics in coaching, emphasizing love, respect, and the coaching relationship.

In this episode, Erica and I talk about the role of the International Coach Federation (ICF) Code of Ethics, and why ethics should never feel like a restrictive set of rules. Instead, ethics are really about love, respect, and protecting the coaching relationship. We explore why clarity with clients matters—from written agreements to how faith might show up in sessions—and how being transparent builds trust. One of the most powerful parts of our conversation centers around the influence we carry as coaches. When clients bring deep emotions or spiritual questions into a session, it can be tempting to guide, correct, or even teach. But coaching isn’t about persuasion or authority—it’s about curiosity, partnership, and honoring the client’s own journey. Ultimately, faith and ethics aren’t in competition with one another. When done well, they actually strengthen each other. Integrity builds trust. And trust creates space for transformation. If you’re a coach who wants to grow in both your spiritual formation and professional practice, this conversation will encourage you to stay grounded, humble, and client-centered as you serve others. FREE RESOURCES: Link to ICF Code of Ethics…

People in this episode

Host: Teresa McCloy

Guest: Erica

Topics covered

  • ethics
  • coaching
  • faith
  • trust
  • transformation
  • client-centered

Keywords

  • coaching ethics
  • ICF
  • trust
  • faith-based coaching
  • client relationship
  • spiritual formation

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: International Coach Federation, ICF Code of Ethics

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