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

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
https://coachingfederation.org/credentialing/coaching-ethics/icf-code-of-ethics/

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About Teresa McCloy:

Teresa McCloy is the founder and creator of the REALIFE Process®, a framework designed to empower individuals and groups with the tools, training, and community needed for personal and professional growth. Through the REALIFE Process®, Teresa is on a mission to help others grow in self-awareness, establish sustainable rhythms, and enhance their influence and impact by integrating faith and work into their everyday lives. She lives with her husband of 42 years on their 5th generation family farm in central Illinois and enjoys great coffee, growing beautiful flower gardens and traveling as much as possible. 

About Erica Vinson:

Erica Vinson helps clients walk through defining moments with confidence and courage enabling them to move forward in freedom and embrace fearless living. As an ACC Credentialed and Certified Professional Life & Leadership Coach, she uses wisdom from all 3 Centers of Intelligence to help clients gain deeper self-awareness and grow in relationships with others both personally and professionally. Erica is a certified REALIFE Process® Master Coach, an ©iEnneagram Motions of the Soul Practitioner, and has a certificate in Spiritual Transformation through the Transforming Center. She lives in the Metro East St. Louis area and enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, golfing, tennis, boating/water skiing, traveling, is a bit of a technology nerd and loves learning!