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When should a coach refer a client to another professional?

Public reference answer within the CPQLTD Knowledge Centre.

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Reference answer

Referral is required when a need exceeds the coach’s competence or coaching scope, including safety risk, severe or persistent psychological symptoms, impaired reality testing, harmful substance dependence, medical concerns, or specialised legal/financial matters. Referral does not mean the coach diagnoses; it means recognising role limits and encouraging appropriate assessment or support.

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Related questions

What are the limits of coaching confidentiality?Session details and client information are confidential by default and should be shared only with specific consent. Exceptions must be explained before the relationship begins, especially where law requires disclosure or there is an imminent safety risk. In sponsored organisational coaching, the agreement should specify what may be shared, such as agreed progress indicators, without disclosing private session content.

Can a coach provide medical or psychological advice?A coaching title does not authorise medical or psychological diagnosis or treatment. If a practitioner separately holds a regulated health or mental-health licence, the active role must be made explicit and services, records and claims should not be blurred. Within CPQLTD, psychological or behavioural knowledge is used only within coaching scope and does not replace an appropriate specialist.

How should conflicts of interest and dual relationships be handled?A coach should disclose any interest or relationship that may affect objectivity and assess whether it can be managed through informed agreement and boundaries or requires declining or ending the engagement. Dual relationships that create financial or emotional exploitation, dependence or pressure are unacceptable. Organisational work must also manage tension between sponsor interests and client interests.

How is a complaint against a CPQLTD credential holder handled?The process begins with intake and eligibility review, followed by notice to the respondent and a fair opportunity to reply, evidence gathering, independent review and a written decision. Outcomes can range from guidance or required education to warning, supervised practice, suspension or revocation. An affected party may appeal to a panel different from the original decision-maker, with anti-retaliation and privacy protections.

What does scope of coaching practice mean?Scope of practice defines what a coach can provide within coaching and when to stop or refer to another qualified professional. Its purpose is to protect clients and prevent practice beyond competence or into services requiring a different licence or profession.