Which of the following describes how safety disclosures are handled in coaching?

• A. They are optional to discuss.
• B. They are the sole responsibility of medical professionals.
• C. They should be included as part of the consent and coaching plan.
• D. They are not relevant to wellness coaching.

Answer: (C)

In coaching, safety disclosures belong in the informed consent and the coaching plan. This ensures clients clearly understand what the coaching will and won’t address, any potential risks or limitations, how safety concerns will be monitored, and what steps will be taken if urgent issues arise. It also sets expectations about boundaries, data handling, and when a referral to a medical or mental health professional is appropriate, which helps protect both the client and the coach.

These disclosures aren’t optional; they’re a fundamental part of ethical practice and accountability. They aren’t the sole responsibility of medical professionals, since coaches often encounter concerns that require timely discussion and appropriate action within the coaching relationship. They matter because safety is integral to wellness work, where behavioral change and health factors intersect.

So the best approach is to include safety disclosures as part of the consent and coaching plan, ensuring clarity, safety, and appropriate boundaries from the outset.