On the surface, Coaching can be quite similar to therapy. They are both modalities that involve verbal dialogue intended to facilitate greater understanding, self-awareness, and successful achieving of goals. Both can be therapeutic, and both can be “skills” or outcome-based. Where they differ is the framework for the pacing, relationship between the practitioner and client, and focus of action.
Coaching is generally oriented toward the present moment, and with a focus on the work that occurs between sessions. It can be longer term but it doesn’t have to be. Depending on how close you are to finding solution and ready to make tangible changes, it may even be just a couple sessions. A distinction I make is that coaching is a supportive, therapeutic modality that offers a maximum of flexibility for us both to address a wide range of needs while encouraging direct action in the part of the client. In therapy, much of the “work” is actually happening in the session, in the context of a relationship.
In therapeutic coaching, the focus of action is what you do after we’re done meeting. Like many people trained as therapists, over time I have found myself and those I hold space for desiring a greater level of flexibility than psychotherapy offers. I bring a depth of knowledge and training from over 10 years as a practicing trauma therapist to this work that allows for skillful learning and dialogue about what may be holding you back, observing patterns, and challenging you to grow AND nurture yourself, while ultimately focusing on tangible changes in your life.
We can work at the pace and increment that works for you, whether that’s a few sessions, biweekly for several months, or weekly until you feel ready to stop.
You can start, and pause. You can leave, and come back.
You can seamlessly shift between different modalities, such as starting with coaching and later incorporating hypnosis or Breathwork. We can blend approaches together.
You can work with me even if a friend or family member has also seen me in the past (provided you are both comfortable- my work is always confidential).
I incorporate an anti-oppressive approach to all the work that I do, supporting you in living into your values and creating an expansive place for growth. I will challenge you with love, to explore areas of ambivalence, help you gain clarity on what really matters to you, and to take action in ways that also support those you hold dear and your community. I believe that satisfaction and contentment are a result of a life lived in alignment with your values, and I also hold space for acknowledging the systemic barriers that make it difficult to do this at times. My particular style also works dynamically with multiple levels of consciousness, allowing for deeper levels of change that are not merely behavioral.
Therapeutic coaching is especially helpful for those who have had successful therapy in the past, and are looking for some help but not sure if they “need therapy” again. It’s also a great option if you’re interested in the other holistic modalities I practice but you feel you would benefit from more verbal dialog/processing as well. I am connected to a wide network of therapists, and can assist in helping you find a therapist if we learn that it would be more supportive to you.
Our work can address a wide range of needs, but there are a few areas that hold my passion, interest, and experience: Trauma recovery, spiritual development, ethical and effective leadership, and mindful approaches to mental health.