TRAUMA-INFORMED YOGA AND COACHING
IN CLINICAL SETTINGS

Therapists serve as primary caregivers in mental health, functioning within a medical framework, while Coaches operate within a supportive framework. Therapists address and manage trauma directly, whereas Trauma Informed Coaches don't administer trauma treatment but instead possess an understanding of the intricacies involved in working with clients who have experienced trauma. ​ Trauma Informed Coaching involves recognizing the impact of past trauma on a client's current experiences and utilizing it as a roadmap for developing resilience and forward-thinking coaching approaches. Often, individuals may require both therapy and coaching support concurrently, with therapy addressing trauma head-on and coaching focusing on present-day progress and development. ​ Here's a concise breakdown of what coaches can and cannot do: ​ • My Approach as a Trauma Informed Coach: • I anchor my work in the present, focusing on my clients' current life experiences. • I strive to understand how trauma affects them today. • My goal is to empower clients through coaching strategies that build on their strengths, foster healthy beliefs, and develop positive coping mechanisms. • I operate in a collaborative manner, serving as a guide, mentor, and support system. • I may provide education on trauma and recovery or assist in setting recovery goals, always ensuring the client leads the process. • What I Do Not Do as a Coach: • I do not prescribe or offer advice on medication. • I do not treat, diagnose, or assess mental health conditions. • I do not exceed my scope of competence.

The coach helps the individual to step back and consider things from a new perspective. They encourage the discovery of existing resources, identify areas for development or change, and determine what should be stopped, started, or continued. Their primary tool is questioning, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the situation and access to new perspectives. Depending on their training and sensitivity, the coach may use other tools such as NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), a body-mind-oriented approach, etc.

As a coach, we firmly believe in the untapped potential of each client. Nothing is definitive; everything remains possible. Even if the past has not yielded the desired results, it does not mean that the future will be the same. Together, we work to build a better future starting from today. Our collaboration is based on an active partnership. Reflection and creativity are essential for discovering new solutions. We aim to develop resources, help the client develop their identity and beliefs, and guide them towards a better understanding of themselves. Solutions and actions primarily come from the client to ensure that they are easily applicable and assimilated. As a coach, we encourage the client's autonomy and responsibility. While we may share knowledge and perspectives, our role is not that of a teacher.

Each session is unique and tailored to the client's needs and preferences. We may use visualization techniques, NLP exercises, a body-mind-oriented approach, or other methods depending on the client's goals and specific situation. The goal is to create a supportive and growth-oriented environment where the client can explore, learn, and progress towards their goals and challenges effectively and sustainably.