ICF Mentor Coaching

Overview

According to the ICF, “Mentor Coaching for an ICF Credential consists of coaching and feedback in a collaborative, appreciative and dialogued process based on an observed or recorded coaching session to increase the coach’s capability in coaching, in alignment with the ICF Core Competencies.”

Mentor Coaching is designed to help you achieve and demonstrate the levels of coaching competency and capability demanded by your desired credential level. It takes place over an extended timeframe (three months or longer) that allows for multiple cycles of listening, feedback, reflection and practice. The ICF requires credentialing candidates on the ACC ACSTH and Portfolio paths to complete 10 hours of Mentor Coaching prior to submitting their application.  They are required to partner with a Mentor Coach who holds a valid ACC*, PCC or MCC Credential.

This program combines small group and 1:1 sessions in order to provide both expert feedback and a rich peer learning environment. Group members take turns coaching and learning from one another as we explore the ICF core competencies and practice applying them. The program consists of five 90-min group sessions (7.5 hrs. total) + 3 individual 60-min sessions (3 hrs. total) spread over a minimum of three months.

Minimum group size: four participants

Session 1: Discovery Interview (Group)

1. Review the purpose of ICF mentor coaching

2. Explore each mentee's goals and/or learning objectives for mentor coaching

3. Overview mentor coaching format and requirements, including live/recorded coaching sessions, etc.

Session 2: Ethical Standards (Group)

1. Review and discuss the ICF Code of Ethics

2. Introduce the Ethical Conduct Review Board

Sessions 3-5: Coaching & Feedback (Group)

1. Group sessions include in-class peer coaching or review of a pre-recorded session; feedback, reflections, and learning; and a discussion exploring the ICF Core Competencies.

2. Mentees receive specific, targeted feedback to help them recognize their strengths and understand what still needs improvement.

3. All group sessions must be attended live in order to receive credit.

4. Light reading and other "homework" will be assigned in between sessions. All assignments must be completed in order to receive credit.

Sessions 6-8: Coaching & Feedback (1:1)

1. Individual sessions will commence once the group sessions are completed. 1:1 sessions focus on review and discussion of a pre-recorded coaching session the mentee has had with an existing client.

Other Resources

 ICF mentor coaching is grounded in the Minimum Skill Requirements (MSR) and Core Competency Rating Levels established by the ICF.  It is recommended that new mentees review this information prior to beginning a mentor coaching program.    

Minimum Skill Requirements (ACC): https://coachfederation.org/msr

Core Competencies Rating Levels: https://tinyurl.com/yxufb5e6