Navigating Ethical Dilemmas
Safe space for coaches to share, ask and learn
ICF Toronto is excited to launch a new series in 2026 on Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in collaboration with Jenny Barkan, ACC, member of the Independent Review Board (IRB) that oversees ICF’s Ethical Conduct Review (ECR) process, Leadership Coach, Facilitator, Speaker, Mentor Coach.
Whether you are navigating your first credential or your fifteenth year coaching, you’ve felt it: that moment when the “right” path isn’t clear. A client request that sits uncomfortably. A boundary that feels blurry. A situation the textbooks didn’t quite cover.
But what if ethical dilemmas became opportunities for growth instead of sources of anxiety?
ICF Toronto is committed to supporting you on your professional growth journey while cultivating your ethical coaching identity by creating a safe and confidential space to bring unclear situations into the light.
The Navigating Ethical Dilemmas series is a monthly virtual gathering for coaches to bring and discuss ethical questions. No judgment. Just peers committed to doing this work well.
Who is this for:
Every coach who cares deeply about their work. New credentials and seasoned practitioners. Anyone who believes that ethical coaching isn’t a box to check – it’s a practice to cultivate.
Why join us:
Because ethics isn’t just about compliance – it’s about courage. The courage to pause when something feels off. To ask hard questions. To hold yourself to a standard that goes beyond “good enough.” And because you shouldn’t have to figure it out alone.
What we’ll explore together:
- The new ICF Code of Ethics (launched April 1, 2025) – what’s changed and what it means for your practice,
- Real coaching dilemmas from your work – shared anonymously or openly, always without judgment,
- The practical wisdom that emerges when experienced voices meet fresh perspectives,
- How integrity, trust, and excellence show up in the nuanced, messy reality of coaching
Program Schedule
Frequency: Monthly sessions
Start Date: January 2026
Duration: 90 minutes
Format: Virtual
Please note: Dates and topics are subject to change based on Chapter programming needs.
Program Agenda for 2026
January 15, 2026 I ETHICAL COACHING IN THE Al ERA
Exploring how emerging technologies influence ethical decisions, understanding boundaries, risks, and best practices when integrating Al into coaching work.
Registration links for the below sessions are coming soon:
February 19, 2026 I WEARING MULTIPLE HATS
Navigating ethical considerations while combining multiple roles: trainer, mentor, consultant, therapist, advisor, etc.
March 19, 2026 I CONTRACTING: BEYOND THE BASICS
A practical look at verbal and written coaching agreements, including clarity of expectations and outcomes of coaching engagements.
April 16, 2026 I POWER DYNAMICS IN COACHING RELATIONSHIPS
Recognizing and responsibly addressing power or status imbalances that may arise during the coaching engagement.
May 21, 2026 I “DOING GOOD” VS. “AVOIDING HARM” (ICF STANDARD 5.3)
Understanding this core distinction and applying it in coaching practice.
June 18, 2026 I CONFIDENTIALITY 8.. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST FOR INTERNAL COACHES
Identifying risks, boundaries, and best practices unique to internal coaching.
July-August 2026 I SUMMER BREAK
September 17, 2026 I RECOGNIZING PERSONAL LIMITATIONS 8.. SHIFTS IN COACHING VALUE
Exploring self-awareness and accountability while delivering consistent coaching value.
October 15, 2026 I BRING YOUR DILEMMA
A session dedicated to the themes and ethical questions brought by members of the Toronto Chapter.
November 19, 2026 I BRING YOUR DILEMMA
A continued exploration of timely ethical dilemmas raised by participants.
All sessions will be facilitated by Jenny Barkan, ACC, Member of the ICF Independent Review Board.
CCE Units for each attended session
Core Competencies: 1
Resource Development: 0.5
Questions about registration? Please contact Heather at: info@icftoronto.com.