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2026 ICF Coaching Futures Report

Envisioning Coaching's Next Horizon

This report does not predict a single future. Instead, it explores multiple scenarios shaping access to coaching worldwide. Grounded in global insights, foresight methods, and creative storytelling, we invite you to imagine what coaching could become and how today’s actions influence what comes next.

The future is not fixed. Help shape it.

I have a feeling that

The future of coaching is twofold: growing, globally relevant, and more needed than ever—yet also called to deeper transformation. It must move beyond technique and root in awareness, ethics, presence, and authentic human connection. Coaching should bridge inner and outer change, AI and human wisdom, performance and wholeness, how things work and why they matter. Coaching must cultivate ethical sensitivity as power, identity, and digital boundaries become more complex and challenges of our time.

Olivera Stanišić VješticaSerbia
I have a feeling that

the idea of coaching as a profession will endure. For me, coaching IS a profession in that we have clear, high standards and professional competencies as well as preparation, education and assessment standards, protocols and practices.

Catherine FingerUnited States
I have a feeling that

applied neuroscience & tech will create exciting new futures for Coaching. Eg. Brain-computer interfaces (like Neuralink or its successors) will allow real-time emotional & cognitive state tracking. Coaches may tap directly into clients’ neurological patterns -tracking stress, clarity, resistance – and guide transformation via neural synchronization.
What do we need to consider as we step into this future?
What ethical safeguards must evolve?
What are the boundaries of predictive coaching?

Shweta Handa GuptaIndia
I have a feeling that

‘coaching’ will be not just a competitive advantage but an essential life skill (that will need to be taught and learnt consciously) in the years to come. Fundamental to building connections and relationship – listening, presence, building trust and psychological safety – will take center stage among the skills needed to thrive at work and in life. Creative Thinking, what we call coaching mindset – open, non-judgmental, curious and flexible mindset will be a differentiator in an AI-led world.

Swapna MirashiSingapore
I am noticing that

more and more clients want to be told what could be best, mentored towards making decisions and supported as they proceed with major changes. Generational gaps in competencies are real and the current framework will have to evolve as lines are being blurred between coaching, mentorship and consulting. I feel that we’ll soon have to get away from labelling and open the door to agile holistic coaching. Thank you!

DANIEL SIROISCanada

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Ecosystem-centered Coaching: Futures Thinking for Real-World Impact

In this 4-part series, discover how futures thinking can empower you to navigate the evolving role of coaching within interconnected ecosystems. Through our four-phase framework—Observe, Envision, Anticipate, Act— you will learn how to prepare for the future of ecosystem-centered practices, integrate AI and new technologies, and embrace ethical, holistic approaches that create real-world impact for you, your clients, and your communities.

Apply the futures thinking loop to coaching

Futures Thinking fosters a mindset that embraces change, encourages innovation, and empowers action toward desired futures.

Apply the futures thinking loop to coaching

Futures Thinking fosters a mindset that embraces change, encourages innovation, and empowers action toward desired futures.

Top Articles

Dive into this month’s top trending articles on the future of coaching

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