As a trauma-informed coaching psychologist, I’ve come to understand that our past experiences shape the lens through which we view the world. Every client who walks through my door carries a unique tapestry of memories, some vibrant and joyful, others shadowed by pain and adversity. It’s my role to help them navigate this complex landscape, always mindful of the delicate nature of trauma and its far-reaching effects, signposting to a therapist if a client has not considered this or is not already in therapy.

One of the most crucial aspects of trauma-informed coaching is creating a safe space for clients. This goes beyond physical safety, it’s about emotional and psychological safety as well. As Bessel van der Kolk emphasizes in “The Body Keeps the Score,” trauma often disrupts our sense of safety in the world. By cultivating a nurturing environment and building trust, we lay the foundation for healing and growth.

In my practice, I’ve observed how trauma can impact a person’s ability to set and achieve goals. The work of Babette Rothschild on the autonomic nervous system has been invaluable in understanding why some clients struggle with motivation or follow-through. By helping clients recognise their arousal states and teaching them self-regulation techniques, we can create a more stable platform for personal development.

Integrating mind-body practices into coaching sessions has also proven to be incredibly beneficial. Jon Kabat-Zinn’s research on mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has shown its effectiveness in managing trauma symptoms. I often guide clients through brief exercises, helping them anchor themselves in the present moment and develop greater self-awareness.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a trauma-informed coaching psychologist is witnessing the resilience of the human spirit. Post-traumatic growth, a concept developed by psychologists Richard Tedeschi and Lawrence Calhoun, reminds us that individuals can not only recover from trauma but also experience positive change as a result of their struggles. As a coaching psychologist, I have the privilege of supporting clients as they discover newfound strengths, deepen their relationships, and find greater meaning in life.

However, it’s essential to acknowledge that this work comes with its challenges. Vicarious traumatisation is a real concern for professionals in this field. The work of Charles Figley on compassion fatigue has been instrumental in helping me develop self-care strategies and maintain healthy boundaries. Regular supervision, personal therapy, and ongoing professional development are crucial for maintaining our well-being as practitioners.

As we continue to advance in our understanding of trauma and its impact, I’m excited about the potential for integrating new approaches into coaching psychology. The field of interpersonal neurobiology, pioneered by Daniel Siegel, offers fascinating insights into how relationships can reshape neural pathways and promote growth. By staying informed about these developments, we can continually refine our practice and better serve our clients.

In conclusion, being a trauma-informed coaching psychologist is both a profound responsibility and an incredible privilege. It requires a delicate balance of knowledge, empathy, and self-awareness. As we guide our clients on their journey, we must remain committed to our growth as well. In doing so, we create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the confines of our coaching sessions, contributing to a more compassionate and resilient world.