Ethics policy of the Coaching Institute
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Introduction: Who we are and what we stand for
The Coaching Institute Frankfurt stands for excellent support for people in professional and personal change processes. Our coaches are among the most experienced in the German-speaking world. They combine professional expertise, human maturity and a deep understanding of what people need in times of change.
Trust, transparency and respectful treatment are not just empty words for us, but the foundation of our work. That is why we have developed this ethical guideline: it describes the attitude that our coaches take in coaching and gives you certainty about what you can expect from us.
1. why we have an ethics policy
Introduction: Trust is the foundation of every coaching relationship. Our Code of Ethics ensures that we live up to this trust.
Coaching is a matter of trust. That is why it is important to us to have clear rules for good, honest and responsible cooperation. This code of ethics shows what you can rely on from our coaches.
2. our core values
Introduction: Our values are the foundation of our actions. They shape every encounter, every conversation and every decision in coaching.
Our coaches act according to fixed values:
- Appreciation: Every person is unique. We treat everyone with respect and esteem, regardless of age, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, origin, religion, ideology or disability.
- Confidentiality: What you say in coaching remains between us.
- Personal responsibility: You decide on your goals. We accompany you in the process.
- Transparency: We clearly state what you can and cannot expect.
- Independence: Our coaches act freely and do not allow themselves to be influenced.
3. how our coaches work
Introduction: In order for coaching to be effective and professional, our coaches follow clear guidelines - for a trusting collaboration at eye level.
Our coaches:
- explain to you at the beginning how the coaching works and what it costs.
- only do what they are really good at.
- recognize the limits of their competence and clearly distinguish coaching from therapeutic psychotherapy or other legally regulated forms of counselling. If we determine that your concerns lie outside our coaching competencies, we undertake to inform you of this transparently and, if necessary, to recommend that you find a suitable specialist (e.g. therapists, doctors, lawyers).
- regularly undergo further training and seek advice themselves (supervision).
- pay attention to fair, friendly and honest dealings.
- do not make promises that they cannot keep, in particular we do not guarantee concrete success or results. Coaching is a process-oriented procedure whose outcome depends on your active cooperation.
- handle power and trust with care.
- ensure that no dependent or overly close relationships arise and proactively and transparently disclose potential conflicts of interest (e.g. previous private or business relationships).
4. your rights as a customer
Introduction: You are the center of attention. Your rights are a matter of course for us - and protect your freedom, your goals and your development.
- You decide at any time whether you would like to continue the coaching.
- You will receive all the important information before the coaching begins: Topic, procedure, duration, location, costs.
- If you have the feeling that the coaching is not (or no longer) helping, please feel free to speak up.
5 Confidentiality and data protection
Introduction: Trust needs security. We respect your privacy - digitally and in person.
- We treat everything you say in coaching confidentially.
- We store and process your data exclusively within the framework of the statutory provisions, in particular the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and only for as long as is necessary for the implementation of the coaching and the statutory retention periods.
- If third parties (e.g. employers) are involved, it is regulated in advance exactly what may be passed on.
6. if several persons are involved
Introduction: Coaching can also be carried out on behalf of organizations. We ensure clear roles and still maintain your personal integrity.
- If a company is the client, we clarify the roles, objectives and information flow at the outset.
- Even then, your personal concerns will remain confidential.
7. fairness in dealing with other coaches
Introduction: We not only work respectfully with our customers - but also with our colleagues.
Our coaches:
- work collegially with others.
- speak openly about problems.
- do not advertise unfairly about themselves or against others.
8. quality and further development
Introduction: Good coaching requires constant reflection and development. We place high demands on ourselves.
Our coaches:
- regularly scrutinize their work.
- obtain feedback.
- keep up to date with the latest professional developments through further training.
9. if you want to complain
Introduction: If something does go wrong, we take your concerns seriously. We stand for a transparent approach to complaints.
If you are dissatisfied with a coaching session or have the feeling that something is not right, please contact us. Our complaints process includes the following steps:
- First contact: Please contact the management (Tim S. Tabrizi, tim.tabrizi@ihrcoachinginstitut.de) directly with your request to ensure confidentiality. You can also reach him by telephone at 01741614254.
- Feedback: We will confirm receipt of your complaint within 2 working days and explain how to proceed.
- Finding a solution: We will examine your request carefully and impartially and propose a concrete solution or the next steps within 5 days.
10. closing remarks
Introduction: We believe in the potential of every person. Coaching is our way of supporting you on your journey - reliably, professionally and humanely.
Coaching should help you to achieve your goals and develop further. This code of ethics is intended to give you security and orientation. We stand for quality, trust and professionalism.
Do you want to report an ethical offense? Are you looking for help?
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+49 174 1614 254
About the author
Tim S. Tabrizi is the founder and managing director of the Your Coaching Institute in Frankfurt am Main. As a certified executive coach (ICF, DBVC, DGSF) with over 15 years of experience, he manages a network of 35 coaches throughout Germany. LinkedIn profile | Your coaching institute on LinkedIn
Our code of ethics: the basis for trustworthy coaching
Ethics in coaching form the foundation for a trusting and effective collaboration. At Ihr Coaching Institut, all coaches are committed to adhering to strict ethical standards that go beyond the minimum requirements of the ICF, DBVC and DGSF. Our ethical guidelines define clear principles for confidentiality, professional boundaries, conflicts of interest and the continuous quality assurance of our coaching services. Coaching services.
Confidentiality is paramount: all coaching content is subject to absolute secrecy. Information is only passed on to third parties with the express consent of the client. This also applies in the context of company assignments - the coach always protects the interests of the coachee and only communicates agreed progress information to clients.
Our coaches in the Executive Coaching and Management coaching are committed to regular supervision and continuous professional development. Supervision ensures that blind spots are recognized and professional standards are maintained. Every coach completes at least 20 hours of further training per year to keep up to date with the latest methods.
Professional boundaries are clearly defined: Coaching is not a substitute for therapy, medical treatment or legal advice. Our coaches recognize the limits of their competence and refer clients to qualified colleagues if necessary. Dual relationships - for example, when a coach also acts as a consultant or trainer for the same client - are made transparent and only entered into if this serves the client.
„The ethical standards at ICI give me as a client the security of knowing that my managers are in responsible hands. Transparency and professionalism at the highest level.“ - Dr. R. Hoffmann, CHRO, DAX Group
Do I need a written coaching contract?
Yes, before the start of any professional coaching relationship, the coach, client and, if applicable, sponsor or client should reach a clear agreement that sets out in writing the roles, responsibilities, confidentiality, fee, duration, termination and conduct rules.
How is confidentiality regulated in coaching?
Coaches are obliged to treat all information as strictly confidential. Exceptions may only be made in the event of a legal obligation or danger to life or health - and this must be transparently agreed in advance.
What counts as a conflict of interest?
If the coach, client or sponsor has multiple roles (e.g. supervisor & coach), there is a potential conflict of interest. Such situations must be discussed openly and dealt with transparently in the coaching contract.
Can I also use my coaching skills informally, e.g. with friends?
You may use coaching techniques on your friend - but this is not considered professional coaching as there is no formal agreement. Nevertheless, you should politely maintain confidentiality.
What do I do if my personal circumstances affect my coaching ability?
Coaches should recognize their own limits. If personal problems limit performance, supervision, coaching or, if necessary, a break or referral to colleagues is appropriate.
Can I enter into a romantic relationship with a client?
No. Any form of romantic or sexual relationship with clients or customers is ethically impermissible and must be avoided.
How often does it update its code of ethics?
The Code of Ethics is regularly revised by supplementary documents such as „Insights & Considerations for Ethics (ICE)“ to take account of current developments and social changes - most recently in July 2025.
What happens in the event of breaches of the Code of Ethics?
Violations can lead to sanctions: Loss of ICF accreditation, requirements such as training or mentoring, or even formal investigation procedures and membership disputes.
Do I also have to contractually bind third parties (e.g. assistants, subcontractors) to the Code of Ethics?
Yes, if you involve assistants or third parties in the coaching process, they must also be bound by the confidentiality guidelines and the code of ethics.
What does the coach's responsibility towards society entail?
Coaches should work without discrimination, ensure fair access, respect intellectual property and make a positive contribution to society, e.g. through ethical research or public engagement.