Shadow Work Coaching - FAQs

What is Shadow Work Coaching?

Shadow Work Coaching is a guided, reflective process designed to help you explore and integrate the unseen parts of yourself — internalized shame, limiting beliefs, and protective patterns shaped by life experience and neurodivergence.

In my practice, this includes:
Somatic awareness – gentle attention to how emotions and memories live in your body, helping you feel and release rather than only think
Parts work – compassionate dialogue with the “parts” of you that hold old fears, protective roles, or hidden gifts, so they can be understood and integrated rather than suppressed

Together, these approaches help deepen self-awareness, reduce self-criticism, and foster authentic living.

What happens in a session?

Sessions are conversation-based and may include guided somatic check-ins, creative reflection, visualization, and parts-based exercises. You set the pace, and we stay grounded in safety and respect.

While insights can be profound, this is always a coaching process — not therapy.

What Shadow Work Coaching is NOT:

❌ It is not therapy, counseling, or psychotherapy
❌ It is not medical treatment or a substitute for mental health care
❌ It does not include diagnosis, clinical assessment, or treatment of psychiatric conditions
❌ It is not crisis intervention

Even when we explore emotions, body sensations, or inner parts, this is for personal development and integration — not clinical treatment.

How is this different from therapy or medical care?

Therapy and medical care are provided by licensed professionals, often focusing on diagnosis, treatment of mental health disorders, trauma resolution, and crisis support.

Shadow Work Coaching is a present-focused, self-discovery practice. Somatic and parts-based tools here are used for insight, embodiment, and growth — not for treating trauma, mental illness, or medical conditions.

Should I still see my therapist or doctor?

Yes. Shadow Work Coaching complements — but does not replace — therapy, psychiatry, or medical care. If you’re in treatment, keep working with your healthcare providers.

Who is this for?

Neurodivergent adults (including ADHD, autism, AuDHD, PDA, etc.) who feel emotionally ready for gentle self-exploration. It’s especially helpful for those who’ve experienced masking, internalized stigma, or self-doubt and now wish to understand and embrace their whole selves.

What if I discover painful memories or emotions?

That can happen. We stay grounded, move at your pace, and use somatic and parts-work tools to bring compassion to what arises. If overwhelming trauma or crisis surfaces, I’ll recommend seeking licensed mental health support.

How do I know if it’s right for me?

If you’re curious about what’s beneath patterns and defenses, want a holistic, neuro-affirming space to explore your inner world, and feel emotionally stable enough for self-reflection, Shadow Work Coaching may be a fit. Let’s talk in a free discovery call.

🌿 Still have questions?

BOOK A CALL — I’m happy to help you decide if this is the right step on your journey.