My Paradigm for Coaching
The type of coaching I do aligns with my passion to facilitate clarity and self-insight. I am an inner wilderness guide supporting you to navigate obstacles and listen to the signals from your body. Each of us have unique strengths, interests and experiences that combine to add value in our relationships and our work.
Therapy focuses on healing childhood trauma, while coaching focuses on processing present day challenges. My experience as a trauma trained therapist helps me to identify when the past is hindering the present, and my training as a Wayfinder life coach helps me to address present and future challenges. Both processes depend on self-reflection. I enjoy creating space for people to become less distracted by the noise in life, and more focused on creating a life of connection, purpose and meaning.
Coaching can help ground you in the present and move forward with clarity and intention. It can help you to take a more active role in your life instead of allowing circumstances to toss you around.
My Approach
I see coaching as a partnership where we work together to gain clarity and facilitate change.
We are more likely to make positive changes when we have an encouraging and supportive relationship.
We will work together to process present day barriers and guide you toward experiencing more fulfillment and meaning in your relationships, career and life.
We will explore your inner world for insights. These insights give important information to make wise decisions.
We will process difficult circumstances and thoughts that are barriers toward change.
We will access your strengths and help you to become more attuned to your body so you can improve your life.
I will share information that provides direction and empathy
Education
I received my Masters of Arts in Counseling from George Fox University and achieved my undergraduate degree from Multnomah University. Some of my continuing education includes Wayfinder Coaching and certification, Sensory Motor Psychotherapy; Certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); Gottman Training. I love learning and participate in ongoing specialty training, and education.
Integration of Spirituality
I believe that God is Love and every human is created to be deeply loved, safe, and connected. Spiritual health is interconnected with our physical, mental, emotional and relational well-being. I provide a coaching environment that is influenced both by professional and faith-centered values. I recognize that many people have been hurt and abused in religious contexts and I can provide a safe place to heal from those wounds. I value working with clients from diverse faith perspectives and practices.
I believe in the power of love, hope and faith to redeem our pain.
“Life coaching is a dialogue with a wise, experienced coach you can trust. Emotions are still important by guiding you to listen to your body, mind, and spirit. But unlike counseling, there is practical advice and empowering steps to take moving forward. After each session, my soul feels refreshed and energized to take on life. It gives me hope for the future and all its possibilities. Tristen is nonjudgmental and sincere about helping you live your best life.”
“Coaching looks at symptoms of current problems on what is happening in my life, family, career, and relationships and gets at the root cause.
I would not say coaching is shallow or not as deep as therapy, but coaching may deal with problems that are not quite as traumatic as abuse, PTSD, death, etc... However, the life ramifications of proper coaching are incredibly important. Should I take a new job? Should I move my family? Why am I so stressed out about certain things at work or with my coworkers? Etc...
I think coaching is incredibly important because it gives you a North Star or something to aim at. An aimless life often goes wayward fairly quickly. I am no use to my family or to myself without a plan. Coaching has helped me figure that plan out.”