Trauma-Informed Coaching

Trauma is defined by the Canadian Mental Health Association as “the ongoing response of body, mind, and spirit that can result from living through a distressing event.” A distressing event can be, for example: sexual assault, violence, an accident, or long-term, repeated patterns such as childhood neglect and/or abuse.

The consequences of experiencing trauma can last a lifetime. A survivor loses their ability to trust or feel safe, and may experience a loss of personal power, control, and agency. Trauma can also cause a disconnection from ourselves, our bodies, and the earth that results in dissociation, despair, avoidance, over-consumption, and other addictions. This disconnection allows us to perpetuate the violation of the earth and cruelty to other living beings, even as it allows us to perpetuate violence toward ourselves.

We know that when people are connected to themselves, they are more able to extend caring to the planet and other living beings. Our belief is that coaching can help restore the choices and autonomy that were taken from traumatized individuals -  that it’s the very nature of the coaching relationship that can help folks heal and reconnect to themselves, to others, and to nature.

How can we as coaches help our clients through this process? What can we do to empower them to  thrive in these uncertain times - and inspire them to become part of the solution to the complex environmental, social, and economic problems that challenge us?

This workshop will help orient coaches to a trauma-informed approach with concrete tools and examples drawn from the guiding principles of a trauma-informed approach from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in the US (SAMHSA). We will dive into how to be, and stay, present so that our clients are able to relax, focus on their topic, and do the deeper work.

Practicing coaches will be able to implement what they learn right away in their practices. Trauma-Informed Coaching provides a helpful lens for working with all coaching clients - those who are living with trauma, and anyone who may feel anxious and distressed in these uncertain times.

A relevant addition to curriculum for coaching schools, training organizations, and certification entities, please contact us for rates and availability.