Before we can work skillfully with trauma that may be present in a client or team, it is important that we understand our “self” as an instrument: our own nervous system, our own filters, our own blind spots. 

This opening retreat is dedicated entirely to that relational ground: developing the subtle sensing, presence, and inner coherence that make trauma-sensitive work possible in the first place.

We will look closely at how we actually show up in relationship: where our attention goes, what we flinch from, which parts of a client’s experience we unconsciously edit out. We will learn to notice more of the somatic, affectual, and relational information that lives between us and our client.

This includes direct work with self-judgment: noticing the inner critic that shapes how we see ourselves, and beginning to meet it with more self-forgiveness and self-blessing rather than more effort.

From there we build outward into the relational skills that carry this inner work into a room with others: attunement, transparent communication, reflective listening, and appropriate self-disclosure.

This module includes work in triads: one person practicing, one receiving, one observing and reflecting back – so you can practice these skills and experiment together in a safe container.

This module will also include 1:1 case consultations, where Thomas and Amy work directly with real-world coaching and consulting challenges brought by participants.