What is the International Coaching Federation (ICF)?
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is a globally operating organization that has undertaken the leadership of the coaching profession. ICF aims to advance this profession by setting high-level standards related to coaching, granting independent credentials, and creating a global network of trained coaches. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2020, ICF began its active journey in 1995. At that time, its primary goal was to increase trust in the profession and create an environment where coaches could communicate with each other. Over the years, ICF has grown into a global movement, becoming the largest organization of professional coaches and the voice of those practicing the profession. By 2020, the International Coach Federation transformed into the International Coaching Federation. This transformation was not just a name change; it expanded the vision of coaching to wider audiences and created alternative ways to serve coaches, clients, and the world. Rapidly growing, the federation introduced its brand and ecosystem globally in 2021, taking a bold new step toward the future of coaching. Formerly a single organization, ICF has now evolved into a federation consisting of six family organizations. ICF serves as an umbrella organization coordinating these six entities, each with its own governance and structure. Four of these are established organizations: ICF Professional Coaches, ICF Credentials and Standards, ICF Coach Education and ICF Foundation. The other two are newly established: ICF Coaching in Organizations and ICF Thought Leadership Institute. Believing that coaching is part of society, ICF aims to build a future where its members practice this profession professionally. In line with its vision, ICF imagines a future where coaching is recognized as a professional discipline in society, and its mission is grounded in the belief that its coaches empower the world. At the same time, ICF inspires other coaches and aspiring coaches, continuing its journey with universal values.
- ICF vision and mission
- ICF Turkey
- ICF Azerbaijan
- Coaching training
ICF Turkey
ICF Turkey was established in 2005 as the Turkish branch of ICF, the global leader in the coaching profession. On December 24, 2009, it officially began operations under the name International Professional Coaching Association (ICF Turkey). Its main objective is to establish and advance the coaching profession in society by creating programs and standards to increase trust in the profession. Its members contribute to this goal by delivering coaching services at the highest quality. Maintaining themes of solidarity, resilience, balance, and transformation, ICF Turkey develops projects that contribute to professional development and societal benefit, focusing on digitalization and operational excellence. The association collaborates with the business world, NGOs, professional organizations, and other coaching associations to expand its influence. It also strengthens its ties with members and works in line with global developments to advance the profession, aiming to continuously elevate coaching and increase its credibility in society.
ICF Azerbaijan
As of the end of 2022, the International Coaching Federation (ICF) has 24 members in Azerbaijan. In 2019, a Coaching and Leadership Conference featuring international speakers was organized. According to the January 2023 report, there are 4 ACC, 12 PCC, and 2 MCC credentialed coaches in Azerbaijan.
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) members in Azerbaijan continue working towards establishing an ICF Azerbaijan chapter.
Credentials
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) created the industry-standard ICF Certification to ensure coaches maintain an international presence and prove their knowledge and experience. Accreditation has been critical for the success and credibility of the coaching industry since its establishment. In 2021, ICF introduced an updated accreditation structure called ICF Coaching Education to standardize coaching education globally. This replaced the former ACTP and ACSTH programs. Accordingly, different levels were defined:
- Level 1: Associate Certified Coach (ACC)
- Level 2: Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
- Level 3: Master Certified Coach (MCC)
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is a globally recognized federation providing certification and credentials including coaching education and exams. Its accreditation ensures credibility, continuous improvement, and common standards. ICF credentials symbolize quality, integrity, and legitimacy. Coaches holding ICF credentials provide verified coaching success and represent the highest level of professional coaching excellence. These credentials require completion of training, experience, and exams, and they increase recognition and trust in society.
