Coaching can be deeply supportive, but knowing what to look for in a coach isn’t always straightforward. Unlike regulated professions like physiotherapy, coaching (including mindfulness coaching) doesn’t have one clear path or standard. That means that you, as the client, need to take an active role in choosing a coach that’s a good fit — and a safe one.
This blog will tell you what to look for, what to ask, and when to trust your instincts.
Coaching Isn't Regulated (Yet)
Unlike physiotherapy, which is regulated in many parts of the world, coaching doesn’t have a governing body that holds coaches accountable. There are no required credentials. No legally enforced scope of practice. No standardized safeguards in place to protect the public. That means technically anyone can call themselves a coach.
That said, there are organizations working toward higher standards within coaching. One of the most recognized is the International Coaching Federation (ICF), which offers certification, continuing education, and ethical guidelines for coaches. Coaches trained in ICF-accredited programs have to meet certain education and supervision standards — which is a step in the right direction.
We can’t ignore, though, that there are unregulated practitioners doing phenomenal, life-changing work. And there are licensed professionals who, unfortunately, cause harm.
So when looking for a coach, it’s important to ask yourself:
- Is a certification or formal training in coaching important to me?
If so, don’t be afraid to ask potential coaches where they trained, what kind of mentorship or supervision they’ve had, and whether they follow any particular code of ethics. What matters most in what to look for in a coach is that you take some time to ensure the coach you want to work with meets your standards.
What Coaching Isn't
In the case of a coach working with people’s health, it’s concerning to me to think about the potential harm that can arise when they’re not adequately trained or monitored, such as from overstepping their scope of practice.
That’s why it’s important to understand what coaching is — and what it isn’t. A coach isn’t there to diagnose, treat, or prescribe. They shouldn’t be acting as your therapist, doctor, or nutritionist (unless they’re qualified in those areas and have clearly communicated when they’re wearing which hat).
A responsible coach will stay within their scope and refer you elsewhere when needed. This isn’t a limitation — it’s part of what makes coaching safe, respectful, and collaborative.
What Coaching Is
Coaching is a guided conversation that helps you with making meaningful changes in your life.
A coach works with you to clarify where you are now, where you’d like to be, and what might help you get there. By listening with curiosity, asking meaningful questions, and offering honest reflection, they help you build awareness, tap into your own resources, and take aligned steps forward.
Coaching is a space where you lead the way with the coach helping to keep the focus on the present, while supporting your progress towards your goals.
Is Your Coach Trained in What They're Coaching On?
While true coaching doesn’t mean giving advice or telling people what to do, your coach’s background and expertise matter.
Let’s take the example of mindfulness coaching. Mindfulness coaching sometimes involves sitting with strong emotions, difficult thoughts, or uncomfortable body sensations. That’s why it’s important that your mindfulness coach has a solid foundation in mindfulness practice and knows how to present it in a way that’s trauma-informed. The safety of a client must always be the primary concern.
It’s no different for fitness or nutrition coaching — you’d expect each of these coaches to have some training in those areas, right? For safety and for when their expertise is needed to help you along.
In my own work, when I perceive a gap in knowledge, confusion, or a safety or ethical concern while I’m coaching a physiotherapy client, I bring in my physiotherapy expertise. Likewise when I’m mindfulness coaching, I bring in my training and experience in mindfulness.
I believe part of being a responsible coach is knowing when and how to step in, especially when it comes to health and well-being.
What to Look for in a Coach - Background & Experience
Many coaches come into the profession from other fields, such as healthcare, education, fitness, or human resources.
In my case, I’ve spent years as a registered physiotherapist, working one-on-one with people on their physical and emotional health. That means I’ve been trained — and continue to be held accountable — to standards around safety, consent, confidentiality, professionalism, and more.
This background shapes the way I coach:
- I understand how to support someone through a vulnerable process.
- I know how to recognize when something’s outside my role and when to speak up.
- I treat each client with the same care and responsibility I would in a clinical setting.
Not every coach will have this kind of foundation — and that’s okay. But when your mental, emotional, or physical well-being is involved, it’s worth asking a coach:
- Have they worked closely with people in a way that called for empathy and clear boundaries?
- Have they been trained — or held to standards — around things like consent, ethics, and confidentiality?
- And if they’re not formally trained as a coach, does their background show they know how to support someone in a safe, respectful way?
You won’t always find these answers on a coach’s website. But you can often get a sense by exploring their social media content, listening to podcasts they’ve appeared on, or by asking questions during a consultation call. Don’t be afraid to ask directly. A good coach will welcome the conversation.
Chemistry and Fit Matter Too When Looking for a Coach
So far in this discussion about what to look for in a coach, we’ve focused on background, experience, and credentials. While they’re indeed important, it’s important to also consider how you actually feel when you’re in conversation with a coach.
- Do you feel safe? Seen? Respected?
- Are they genuinely listening, or just waiting to give advice?
Even the most highly trained coach won’t be the right fit for everyone — and that’s okay. You don’t have to force it.
I always recommend booking a consult call before committing to anything. It’s a chance for both of you to get a sense of whether working together feels like the right fit for your needs.
So What Should You Look For in a Coach?
Once you understand the coaching landscape, you’ll need to filter through what actually matters to you.
If you’re considering a particular coach, or trying to choose between a few, here are some questions that can help you make an informed, grounded choice:
- Ask about their training and credentials. Did they complete a coaching program? Was it ICF-accredited? Do they have training in mindfulness (or whatever area they’re coaching in)?
- Understand their background. Have they worked in health, mental wellness, education, or another relevant field that informs their approach?
- Review their work. Read their blogs. Browse their website. Watch their videos. What are their beliefs and perspectives? Does what they share resonate with you and your values?
- Look for disclaimers and boundaries. What do they say about their scope of practice? How clear are they about what coaching is and what it isn’t?
- Schedule a consult call. A conversation can tell you a lot. How do you feel when you engage with them directly? How well do they listen? Were your questions welcomed?
- Trust your gut. Your instincts are valuable. If something feels off, pay attention. It’s ok to move on. Please don’t worry about hurting a coach’s feelings – your safety is most important.
Final Thoughts
While you don’t need to know everything about coaching to make a good decision, a little awareness goes a long way. Coaching can be powerful. Supportive. Transformative. But only if it’s offered in a way that feels grounded, ethical, and safe.
Your well-being matters. Ask questions. Be curious. And don’t settle for anything less than a space where you feel seen, supported, and respected.
About the Author
My coaching speciality is in mindfulness, where I help adults apply mindfulness principles into their everyday life so that they can live with more presence, intention, and purpose.
As a physiotherapist, I also wear a coaching hat, helping people to shift lifestyle habits, manage stress, and take ownership of their health.
Learn more about these services below.