How is 'coaching supervision' defined by the ICF?

Coaching supervision, as defined by the International Coaching Federation (ICF), is a professional relationship primarily focused on the development of the coach's skills and practice. This relationship involves a supervisor who provides guidance, support, and reflective opportunities for the coach. The essence of coaching supervision lies in enhancing the coach's professional effectiveness, ensuring ethical practice, and fostering ongoing learning and development within the coaching profession.

This definition underscores the importance of a collaborative dynamic between the coach and the supervisor, aimed towards professional growth. It supports coaches in exploring their experiences, feelings, and challenges they face in their practice, ultimately leading to improved coaching outcomes for clients.

In contrast, the other options do not comprehensively capture this supervisory relationship. A mere relationship between coach and client focuses solely on the coaching dynamic, which is different from the supervisory aspect. A formal assessment of coaching outcomes emphasizes results instead of the developmental process for the coach. Lastly, while a method for clients to evaluate their coaches may touch on accountability, it does not reflect the supportive and growth-oriented nature of coaching supervision as defined by ICF.