Coaching vs. Therapy vs. Consulting vs. Mentoring: Know the Boundaries
How coaching differs from therapy, consulting, and mentoring -- the ICF definition, when to refer clients, and how the ACC exam tests these boundaries.
ACC exam library
Practical, source-aware guides for understanding the credential, studying the competencies, and preparing for exam day.
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34 articles · Showing 21–30
How coaching differs from therapy, consulting, and mentoring -- the ICF definition, when to refer clients, and how the ACC exam tests these boundaries.
Ethics is 30% of the ACC exam. Learn the 2020 ICF Code of Ethics (not 2025), common ethical dilemma scenarios, and a framework for answering ethics questions.
Plain-language guide to all 8 ICF Core Competencies, how each one shows up on the ACC exam, sample practice questions, and the most common candidate mistakes.
Twelve practical ICF ACC exam tips covering Pearson VUE setup, time management, question-answering strategy, and the traps that cost candidates points.
ICF ACC exam fee is $175–$625, set by your path and ICF membership, and it includes your first attempt. Retakes are $105. See the full certification cost.
The ICF ACC exam changed in November 2024. Learn what the three content domains cover, how the new format differs from the old exam, and how to prepare.
Free ICF ACC practice exam: 6 original questions on ethics, boundaries and competencies, with answer explanations, a score guide and next steps.
A complete ICF ACC exam study guide -- what to study, how to study effectively, and a week-by-week plan that takes you from preparation to a passing score.
20 free ICF ACC exam sample questions with answers and explanations across all 3 domains and the Core Competencies. 2026 format, free PDF + mini quiz.
Failed the ICF ACC exam? Here is the retake policy, how to diagnose weak areas from your score report, and a restructured study plan to pass next time.