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Writer's pictureTonya Holland

From Social Work to Holistic Coaching: My Journey to Helping Others Thrive



Hello, I’m Tonya, and I’d like to share with you my journey from social work to holistic coaching. This path has been filled with challenges, growth, and profound experiences that have shaped who I am today. 


My story is one of transformation and dedication to helping others thrive, and I hope it inspires you on your own journey.


Early Beginnings


I began my professional journey with a strong desire to make a difference in people's lives. After earning my bachelor's degree in Human Services, I pursued a master's degree in Social Work from Springfield College in Massachusetts. These academic achievements laid the foundation for my career in social work, where I spent two decades in child protective services. 


This work was both rewarding and challenging, as I encountered families and children in crisis and sought to provide them with the support and resources they needed to rebuild their lives.



The Impact of Social Work


Working in child protective services opened my eyes to the resilience of the human spirit. I witnessed firsthand the incredible strength people possess, even in the face of adversity. However, it also highlighted the systemic issues and the limitations of traditional social work in addressing deeper, personal growth and wellness. 


I realized that while I was helping to protect and support families, there was a need for a more holistic approach that went beyond immediate crisis intervention.



Transitioning to Adult Mental Health and Addiction Services


Seeking to broaden my impact, I transitioned to adult mental health and addiction services. This shift allowed me to work with individuals facing different but equally challenging life circumstances. In this role, I helped adults navigate their mental health struggles and addiction recovery, providing them with tools and strategies for long-term well-being. 


My experience in this field deepened my understanding of human behavior and resilience, reinforcing my belief in the power of personal growth and transformation.



Discovering Holistic Coaching


While my work in social services was fulfilling, I felt a growing desire to explore new ways to support people in their personal and professional development. I began to see the potential of holistic coaching as a means to help individuals achieve their fullest potential. 


Unlike traditional social work, holistic coaching offered a proactive, future-focused approach that emphasized personal growth, self-discovery, and the integration of mind, body, and spirit.



Embracing Holistic Coaching


As I transitioned into holistic coaching, I pursued certification through Radiant, an IFC-credentialed organization, and began training in Behavioral Coaching through People Keys. These programs equipped me with the skills and knowledge to guide clients through their personal and professional journeys with confidence and clarity.


My approach to coaching is rooted in my extensive background in social work and mental health services. I blend accountability, personal growth, spiritual and mental wellness, and relationship and family dynamics into a comprehensive coaching framework. This holistic approach allows me to address the unique needs of each client, helping them tap into their inner strengths and talents.



A Personal Touch


My journey is not just professional; it’s deeply personal. As a mother of two daughters, aged 38 and 16, I’ve navigated the complexities of single parenthood, marriage, and personal growth. These experiences have taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, empathy, and the importance of self-care. 


They have also shaped my coaching philosophy, which is centered on the belief that everyone has the potential to thrive.


The Mission


My mission as a holistic coach is to help individuals develop a framework for self-discovery, personal growth, and professional development. I empower my clients to create effective strategies to achieve their desired outcomes by focusing on the future and silencing the inner critical voice. My goal is to guide people through transitional life stages, helping them overcome challenges with confidence and clarity.



The Vision


I envision guiding people through transitional life stages, helping them overcome challenges with confidence and clarity. My goal is to coach individuals towards a fulfilling life by realigning them with their purpose and potential. By fostering self-discovery and developing actionable strategies, I aim to unlock the potential within each of my clients, enabling them to lead fulfilling and empowered lives.



Why Choose Me?


 Authentic and Approachable


My coaching style is both authentic and approachable. I believe that building a genuine connection with my clients is the foundation of effective coaching. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, challenges, and aspirations. My down-to-earth approach ensures that clients can relate to me and trust me as a reliable guide on their journey.


 Deep Understanding of Human Behavior


With over 20 years of experience in child protective services and adult mental health and addiction services, I possess a deep understanding of human behavior. This extensive background allows me to recognize and address the underlying issues that may be affecting my clients' personal and professional lives. My expertise in human services and social work equips me with the skills to provide insightful and effective coaching.


 Personalized and Practical Solutions


Every individual is unique, and so are their challenges and goals. I offer personalized coaching plans tailored to each client's specific needs. By focusing on their strengths and talents, I help clients develop practical and achievable solutions. My coaching sessions are designed to provide actionable strategies that clients can implement in their daily lives, leading to tangible and meaningful progress.


 Holistic Approach


My holistic approach to coaching sets me apart. I integrate various aspects of personal growth, including accountability, spiritual and mental wellness, and relationship and family dynamics. This comprehensive approach ensures that clients receive well-rounded support that addresses all areas of their lives. By looking at the bigger picture, I help clients achieve balance and harmony, leading to sustained growth and well-being.


 Empathy and Compassion


Having navigated the complexities of single parenthood, marriage, and personal growth, I bring a wealth of personal experience to my coaching practice. These experiences have taught me the importance of empathy and compassion. I understand the struggles my clients face because I have faced similar challenges myself. This empathy allows me to connect with clients on a deeper level, providing them with the support and encouragement they need to overcome obstacles.


 Commitment to Continuous Learning


I am committed to continuous learning and professional development. Currently, I am training for coach certification through Radiant, an IFC-credentialed organization, and completing certification in Behavioral Coaching through People Keys. This dedication to expanding my knowledge ensures that I stay at the forefront of coaching practices, providing my clients with the most effective and up-to-date strategies for success.


 Proven Track Record of Success


My clients' success stories speak volumes about the impact of my coaching. From helping individuals overcome personal and professional obstacles to guiding them in discovering new passions and purposes, my coaching has led to remarkable transformations. 


These success stories are a testament to the effectiveness of my approach and the positive outcomes clients can achieve through our work together.


Genuine Desire to Help Others


At the core of my coaching practice is a genuine desire to help others thrive. My mission is to empower individuals to create a framework for self-discovery, personal growth, and professional development. I am passionate about guiding my clients towards fulfilling lives by realigning them with their purpose and potential. This passion drives me to provide the highest level of support and dedication to each client.


Accessible and Flexible Coaching Packages


Understanding that each client's needs and schedules are different, I offer a range of coaching packages to accommodate various preferences and time commitments. Whether you prefer shorter, focused sessions or more in-depth weekly check-ins, I have options that can fit your lifestyle. This flexibility ensures that coaching remains accessible and effective, regardless of your circumstances.



 The Impact of Holistic Coaching


Since transitioning to holistic coaching, I’ve had the privilege of working with numerous clients who have achieved remarkable transformations. From overcoming personal and professional obstacles to discovering new passions and purposes, my clients have made meaningful progress towards their goals. These success stories fuel my passion for coaching and reaffirm my belief in the power of a holistic approach.


As I continue my journey, I remain committed to expanding my expertise and staying at the forefront of holistic coaching practices. I’m dedicated to helping individuals navigate their unique paths with confidence and clarity, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive.


If you’re ready to embark on a transformative journey towards becoming your best self, I invite you to join me. Together, we can unlock your potential, silence your inner critic, and create a fulfilling and empowered life. Let’s begin this journey together.



 


Are you experiencing, doubt, loss, divorce, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, or depression? It's okay to ask for help.

Book a Discovery Call to start your path to self-discovery and personal growth. I look forward to guiding you on your journey to thriving.







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