Professional Standards, Ethics & Complaints

Why Lightbulb ADHD publish this page:

Lightbulb ADHD Ltd is committed to transparent, evidence-based and ethically sound coaching practice, in order to promote the professionalism of life coaching as a service where clients interests are protected and are at the heart of all services and research.

Below you can read the codes we follow, the commitments we make to every client, and exactly how to raise a concern if our service falls short.

1. Codes of Ethics We Follow

ICF Code of Ethics (2025 edition) – International Coaching Federation

Global Code of Ethics for Coaches & Mentors – Association for Coaching & EMCC Global

PAAC Ethical Guidelines (ADHD-specific) – Professional Association for ADHD Coaches

2. Our Professional Commitments

Confidentiality – all sessions are private; we disclose only with your written consent or if required by law. Session notes and recordings are stored securely with password protected access. You may request the deletion of your session notes or recordings after 12 months.

Scope-of-practice – coaching does not replace therapy, diagnosis or medication management. We cannot refer directly to other professionals but can provide a list of appropriate sources for you to choose who you see next. Should your needs be beyond the scope of coaching and client safety during our agreement, we reserve the right to end your coaching agreement and will make an appropriate refund for time which has not been used where necessary.
Inclusion & accessibility – trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, inclusive, culturally responsive practice. At all times we strive to make this a safe and welcoming service.

Data privacy & GDPR – session notes are stored in 256-bit-encrypted cloud storage on UK/EU servers. See our Privacy policy.

Supervision & mentor-coaching – minimum 1 hr supervision per 17 client hours; 10 hrs mentor-coaching per ICF credential cycle (3 years).

Evidence-based methods – we use both proprietary and validated tools (alongside ASRS-v1.1, BDEFS-SF, WHO-5, Goal-Attainment Scaling) and review client outcomes every 12 weeks.

Safeguarding – crisis protocols follow UK guidance (NHS 111, Samaritans 116 123) and local emergency services but coaching is not a medical or therapeutic service.

3. How to Raise a Concern

Email us within 30 days of the event. Please include your name, session date(s) and a short summary.
Review & response – we acknowledge within 2 business days and send a written outcome within 14 days.
Independent mediation – if unresolved, you may request review by an independent PCC-level mediator (at no cost to you).
External escalation – still dissatisfied? File with the ICF Independent Review Board

4. What happens after I submit a complaint?

We will acknowledge receiving your message within 2 business days. We will investigate and keep your information confidential at all times, unless we need to refer it to the ICF and/or our insurers. You will receive a written outcome within 14 days.

5. Who reviews complaints if we can’t resolve them together?

An independent PCC-level mediator reviews unresolved cases. You can also file separately with the ICF Independent Review Board.

6. What Kinds of issues are covered by the complaints procedure?

Any alleged breach of confidentiality, scope-of-practice, conflicts of interest, discrimination, or misleading marketing claims.

7. Is my information kept confidential during the complaint process?

Yes. Complaint files are stored in encrypted cloud storage and shared only with the mediator or ethics-board members, in line with our Privacy Policy.

8. Last updated

4 September 2025 | Reviewed annually each April