By: Kelly Caldwell
Everyone has a story. In fact, we have many stories.
The story of our youth. Our friendships. The time we’ve spent in various levels of schooling. Our family. The way our careers have progressed. Our loves – and our losses.
Woven into the tapestry of these many stories is, for many of us, trauma.
As anyone who has gone through (or is going through) trauma recovery therapy knows, this is a ten-headed monster. Facing traumatic events and relationships is painful, and learning to identify and manage our triggers is a daunting task. Reaching a level of acceptance about the ways in which past trauma worms its way into everyday scenarios is anything but easy.
I’ve been there. Well, more honestly, I still am there. Let’s just say I’m a work in progress –and I know that I’m far from alone in describing myself that way. One thing I’ve learned is that a great many things should be approached from a trauma-informed perspective. Great examples would be healthcare, education, training, and of course coaching.
What is Trauma-Informed Coaching?
Trauma-informed coaching is an approach that recognizes the presence and impact of trauma in a person’s life and integrates this understanding into the coaching process. It’s a style of coaching that is, at its core, sensitive to the emotional and psychological needs of clients who may have experienced trauma.
Some of the key elements of trauma-informed coaching are:
Safe, Supportive Environment: The coaching environment is safe, supportive, and non-judgmental. You should feel comfortable sharing your experiences and challenges during your coaching sessions.
Trust and Transparency: Communication from your coach must be clear and consistent. Privacy and transparency are also key to helping to build your trust in the process.
Collaboration: Coaching isn’t instruction. The collaborative nature of the coaching relationship is required, in order to ensure that both you and your coach are working together as equals.
Empowerment and Choice: Trauma-informed coaches want to empower clients by offering choices. You should be encouraged to always move forward with your own growth and development.
Cultural, Historical, and Gender Considerations: A trauma-informed coach prioritizes the awareness of sensitivity to the cultural, historical, and gender contexts that can influence a client's experience.
Resilience and Strengths-Based Approach: Coaches should focus on your strengths and resilience, helping to build on your existing capabilities to achieve your business goals.
Why Do We Need Trauma-Informed Coaching?
Part of me wants to say, “if you know, you know.” But I realize that’s not exactly helpful.
The reality of dealing with trauma is that it tends to rear its ugly head when we least expect it. What triggers you? Loud noises? Feeling ignored? Toxicity? The list of potential triggers is endless and unique for each of us trying to process and overcome trauma.
If your coach triggers any trauma responses (which may include heart racing, sweating, flight response, etc.), the work you are doing together will not be beneficial. In fact, it will most likely be counterproductive. That’s why, with coaching, as with all interpersonal dealings, you need to find people who ‘get’ it, and you need to be able to articulate your needs.
Ask for the Approach You Need
If you’re considering entering a coaching program and you identify as someone who has experienced trauma, don’t be afraid to ask specifically for a coach and a process that is trauma informed.
To anyone who is struggling, I wish you the best in your healing journey. Remember, seeking the right support can make all the difference.
Comments