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Free coaching agreement template (Word)

Reviewed by Clausery editors · · 3 min read

An agreement between a coach and client defining the coaching package, session cadence and length, fees, payment schedule, cancellation/reschedule policy, confidentiality and coaching boundaries.

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A coaching agreement sets out the expectations between a coach (life, business, executive, career, health) and client. It covers the package (number of sessions, length, period), fees, scheduling, cancellation policy, confidentiality, and the important disclaimer that coaching is not therapy, medical, legal or financial advice.

Good coaches set clear boundaries — coaching goals are co-created with the client, results depend on client action, and coaches do not diagnose or treat mental health conditions.

What to include#

  • Coach and client. Coach name and credentials; client name; agreement start date; session delivery method (phone, video, in-person).
  • Coaching package. Number of sessions, session length (e.g. 60 minutes), session cadence (weekly/bi-weekly), and the duration of the engagement (e.g. 3 months, 6 months).
  • Fees and payment. Total package fee, payment plan (upfront or monthly instalments), accepted payment methods, and refund policy.
  • Scheduling and cancellation. How sessions are scheduled, required notice to reschedule (typically 24 hours), late-cancellation/no-show policy (session is forfeited), and session expiration.
  • Boundaries and disclaimer. Confidentiality (with standard exceptions for harm/illegal activity), disclaimer that coaching is not therapy/medical/legal/financial advice, client responsibility for action, and recording policy.

How to fill it in#

  1. Step 1: Hold a discovery call first

    Make sure there is a fit before signing; set expectations for what coaching can and cannot do.

  2. Step 2: Set session cadence and length

    60-minute weekly sessions is typical; include session expiry (unused sessions expire at end of engagement).

  3. Step 3: State fees clearly

    Total package vs instalments; include late-payment terms and whether packages auto-renew.

  4. Step 4: Include a clear disclaimer

    Coaching is not a substitute for mental health or licensed professional services; refer to therapists/doctors/lawyers when needed.

  5. Step 5: Sign before first session

    Both parties sign; coach and client each get a copy. Review package at engagement end.

Personal training agreement

Fitness coaching cousin of this agreement.

Consulting agreement

For advisory/consulting rather than pure coaching.

Engagement letter

For regulated professionals who also coach.

Tutoring agreement

For academic tutors (similar structure).

Free contract templates

Full template library.

Questions

Is coaching the same as therapy?

No — therapy treats mental health conditions; coaching supports goal achievement and personal growth. Refer clients to therapists when appropriate.

Should I offer refunds?

Typically not for completed sessions; unused sessions may be refunded within limits. Be explicit.

Do I need insurance?

Professional liability insurance for coaches is recommended — inexpensive and protects if advice is alleged to cause harm.

Can I record sessions?

Only with client explicit written consent; state recording policy in the agreement.

Do I need certification?

Certification is not legally required for coaching in most places, but ethics bodies (ICF) require their own credentialing/agreements.

Browse all templates →

These are general templates, not legal or tax advice. Have anything unusual reviewed for your jurisdiction.

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