ICF Exam ICF-ACC Topic 3 Question 2 Discussion

Actual exam question for ICF's ICF-ACC exam

Question #: 2
Topic #: 3

Nearing the end of a session, your client is still not quite sure what to do about a specific situation. You have the feeling that a similar experience that you have had in the past might be useful for the client. The worst response is:

ATell the client that you have had a similar experience and you know exactly what they should do.

BAsk the client if you can tell them a story, and then ask them to share what is relevant in the story.

CShare your story and list the possible options your client can try.

DShare with the client that you have had a similar experience and enquire if the client would like to hear and see if anything in there may or may not be useful.

Show Suggested Answer

Suggested Answer: A

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

Option A is the worst as it imposes the coach's solution, contradicting Competency 2.2 (partnership) and Competency 8.3 (client autonomy). It breaches Ethics Section 2.2 (avoiding bias) and the ICF Definition of Coaching by shifting to a directive stance.

Option B and C are less intrusive but still assume relevance. Option D (best, see Question 9) respects the client. A most severely undermines the coaching process by prioritizing the coach's agenda.

by Thurman at Mar 23, 2025, 11:39 AM

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Micaela

19 days ago

I personally prefer D, it gives the client the choice to hear the story or not.

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Arlette

21 days ago

I think B is the best option, it allows the client to engage in the conversation.

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Shawnna

24 days ago

Haha, I can just imagine the client's face if you went with option A. 'Oh, you've been in this exact situation before? Well, by all means, enlighten me!'

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Wilbert

28 days ago

I agree, A is the way to go here. Sharing your own story and telling the client what to do is not going to help them at all. D seems like the most helpful approach.

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Eileen

3 days ago

Client: Yes, I would like to hear it.

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Shenika

5 days ago

Therapist: Would you like to hear a story from my experience that might be helpful?

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Burma

7 days ago

Client: Can you tell me what I should do in this situation?

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Kattie

1 months ago

Option A is definitely the worst response. Telling the client you know exactly what they should do based on your own experience is just arrogant and dismissive of their situation.

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Curtis

17 days ago

D) Share with the client that you have had a similar experience and enquire if the client would like to hear and see if anything in there may or may not be useful.

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