Shadow work (aka, one facet of Carl Jung’s psychological model), involves deep introspection of Self under the premise that everything we recognize in other people, especially the characteristics that create emotional charge in us, are already present in ourselves. By surfacing and integrating these repressed aspects of self, we are able to move into a deeper sense of wholeness. As a result, our capacity for resilience flourishes.

In the shadow work process, we explore the parts of ourselves that we may have disowned or pushed away, with the goal of integrating them into our conscious awareness. We do this through building a relationship to the Shadow Aspect, and all its beliefs, perceptions, thoughts, and feelings; needs and fears.

By doing this, we can learn to recognize that all Parts of our Self have a function, even those that may be uncomfortable, difficult to face, or seem to do nothing but ruin our lives.

By finding the function of these parts, we can upgrade our strategies and transform our relationship to these semiconscious aspects of Self. As a result, we effortlessly transform the way we show up in the world. There are no "good" or "bad" parts of ourselves — only parts that need to be acknowledged, accepted, and integrated (or re-employed with a new purpose!).

Emotional Integration involves bringing to awareness the emotions—and the energy or intentions they encapsulate—that we have previously rejected, dismissed, or suppressed.

In Rachael’s coaching practice, this process centers on recognizing our emotions as an intuitive guidance system. This system provides insights into our perceptions and internalized beliefs.

Integral to emotional integration is the cultivation of a daily practice to improve our emotional regulation and processing skills. By delving deeply into our emotional terrain, we expand our capacity for feeling and can learn to harness our emotions as conduits to our unconscious mind.

In addition, this process can unearth Shadow aspects that thwart us from manifesting our desires. Viewing both primary and secondary emotions as shadow aspects sheds light on our rejection of these innate physiological responses. Through the integration process, we can dispel limiting beliefs, gain clarity, and light the way towards the abundance we rightfully deserve.

Shadow work from a trauma informed perspective means that the process and accompanying frameworks are guided by an understanding of how trauma impacts us on an individual and societal level, therefore dictating which aspects of Self are relegated to the Shadow.

This approach also recognizes that no aspect of self is inherently bad or shameful, but are often developed as coping mechanisms to protect us from harm.

By acknowledging the role of trauma in shaping our experiences and behaviors, we can work with the Shadow in a more compassionate and supportive way. It also means that the work is approached with an emphasis on safety, compassion, and a focus on empowerment in the present moment, rather than trying to dig into the past to understand “why,” or “what’s wrong with me?” (spoiler: nothing is wrong with you!)

The nervous system is the complex network of nerves and cells in our bodies that carry signals to and from the brain and spinal cord. It plays a vital role in our ability to perceive, process, and respond to internal and external stimuli. Essentially, the nervous system is responsible for regulating all of the body's functions, from breathing and heartbeat to movement and sensation.

Intriguingly, the activations we feel within our nervous system serve as tangible evidence of the more abstract psychological concept known as the 'Shadow.' These physiological responses are often the physical manifestations of suppressed emotions, desires, or traumas — elements of our Shadow. As they emerge, they create ripple effects within our nervous system. As a Somatics-Informed Shadow Work coach, I recognize the profound connection between somatic sensations and the hidden recesses of our psyche. By weaving these two threads together, I work with clients to unearth, understand, and integrate these shadow parts, enabling them to achieve a harmonious balance between body and mind and empowering them to take control of their own nervous system regulation.

Nervous system regulation is a foundational principle in the coaching model Rachael uses. It involves nourishing our internal and external resources, and consciously expanding our capacity to handle stress, in order to create a more balanced and resilient system.

At the core of nervous system regulation is the concept of Somatics, which is the practice of cultivating awareness of bodily sensations and using that awareness to regulate the nervous system. By developing somatic awareness and regulation skills, we can better manage stress and trauma, improve emotional and physical health, and deepen our overall sense of well-being. As a Somatics-Informed Shadow Work coach, I work with clients to develop these skills and empower them to take control of their own nervous system regulation.

One of the key skills in this model is self-attunement, which is the process of tuning into the emotions and sensations in our body, and translating them into their most raw forms of fear and desire. By treating all emotions as direct lines of communication to our subconscious mind, we can release limiting narratives or anxious thought loops, and alchemize the energy of each emotion. This strengthens our relationship with ourselves and helps us better understand how we perceive the world around us. As we become aware of the meaning behind each emotion, we can identify our physical and emotional needs, sharpen our intuition, and achieve true fulfillment.

Parts Work is a technique for working with the content of the subconscious and unconscious minds that is informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS) by Dr. Richard Schwartz.

In Rachael’s style of Parts Work, we access and review the content of the unconscious through meditative exercises, then interact with the emotion (the Part) and their accompanying beliefs, perceptions, desires, fears, and behavioral associations to facilitate a transformation.

Through Parts Work, we gain a better understanding of the different roles that exist within our psyche and how they communicate with / relate to one another. By harmonizing the system that makes up our inner Parts, we increase our sense of calm and security, and find clarity. Often clients discover that they had access to all the answers they could ever need this whole time — they just had to ask the right Part!

*Note: It is important to note that Rachael's approach is not therapy and is not a substitute for seeking professional mental health treatment when needed.

Q: Some people say Shadow Work should only be done with a therapist. What’s the difference between doing it with you?

A: It's important to note that while the work I do is deeply transformative, it is not therapy. As a coach, I am not licensed to diagnose or treat any mental health conditions. Instead, I offer guidance and support to help you navigate your inner world and access your own innate wisdom and healing.

While traditional therapy often focuses on exploring past trauma and limiting beliefs, my approach to shadow work is more present-focused, and is geared towards helping you identify and release patterns that are keeping you stuck in the present. We work together to explore your unconscious beliefs and behaviors, and uncover the root causes of any challenges you may be facing.

It's also important to note that coaching is a collaborative process, and you are ultimately responsible for your own growth and transformation. As your coach, I am here to support you and offer guidance, but the work we do together is a partnership. It's up to you to show up and do the work, and to take ownership of your own healing journey.

If you are seeking therapy or have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, it's important to seek support from a licensed mental health professional. However, if you are looking to explore your inner world, release patterns that are holding you back, and step into your power, shadow work coaching may be the right fit for you.

The purpose of incorporating spirituality into a shadow work practice is to tap into a source of inner guidance that can help us navigate life's challenges with greater ease and trust, allowing us to let go of our control patterns. By developing a deeper relationship with our higher power (whatever that means for you), we can access a wellspring of resilience and wisdom that supports us in the process of unblocking and healing. Rachael's coaching approach emphasizes the importance of working with clients' personal belief and value systems as she guides them in cultivating a sense of reverent spiritual connection that feels deep, grounded, and authentic.

Rachael is a practicing astrologer and, upon request, can incorporate the use of astrology in her coaching container as a tool for clients to reflect on patterns that may be at play in their lives. She offers birth chart and transit chart readings using Hellenistic astrology (Placidus or Whole Sign housing systems) to help clients investigate the corners of their psyche or arenas of life that they may otherwise miss. Chart readings can also offer clues and insights on which shadow aspect to examine, as well as in what arena of life. Through this process, clients can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and how they relate to the world around them, ultimately aiding them in their personal growth and journey towards self-discovery and evolution.

Shadow work is the process of exploring and integrating the unconscious or repressed aspects of ourselves. This concept was first introduced by psychologist Carl Jung, who believed that the shadow is a crucial part of our psyche that is often ignored or rejected, but holds all of our untapped potential. By working with our shadow, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and transform negative patterns and behaviors, and achieve our creative potential to build a life of abundance.

Modern teachers, such as author and teacher Carolyn Elliot (author of Existential Kink), have expanded on Jung's concept of shadow work and developed practical techniques for engaging with our shadow. These techniques include asking questions like, “What part of me LIKES feeling rejected, abandoned, criticized, and shamed?”

Understanding the function of our Shadow and then updating its job description (for example, going from self sabatoge as a form of self protection, to setting boundaries for self protection) Shadow work can become a powerful tool for personal growth.

If you're interested in starting shadow work, it's important to approach it with intention and care to create a safe and supported space. One way to start is by working with a trained professional, such as a therapist or shadow work coach, who can guide you through the process and help you navigate any difficult emotions or experiences that may arise.

One powerful way to start doing shadow work safely is to ask yourself the questions "who am I now?" followed by "who do I want to be?" This comparison can help you identify the gap between where you are now and where you want to be, which we commonly refer to as the ‘Margin of Change.’

The Margin of Change represents the work that needs to be done in order to align your internal self with your desired external reality. By identifying this gap, you can start to explore the parts of you that might feel insecure about why you aren’t there yet — these insecurities are often shadow aspects (aka, untapped potential, stuck emotions, limiting beliefs, or unconscious Parts of Self) that may be holding you back from taking action or doing what you know you “should” or “could” be doing.

This process can be challenging, but it is ultimately rewarding and can lead to immensely powerful personal growth and emotional liberation. Remember to approach this process with self-compassion and seek support from a qualified professional, as needed.

In today's rapidly changing and unpredictable world, it's more important than ever to connect with our inner guidance system. Doing shadow work allows us to become radically honest about our worldviews by also becoming more conscious of our emotions, beliefs, and projections. This enables us to make decisions that align with our core values.

Shadow work helps us to identify and break free from false and disempowering narratives, allowing us to create a more authentic, fulfilling, and abundant lives. By doing shadow work, we can become more resilient, empowered, and capable of navigating unprecedented times with clarity and purpose.

Shadow work can be an intense and emotional process, and some people may wonder if it is dangerous. While shadow work can bring up difficult emotions and memories, it is not inherently dangerous if done in a safe and supportive environment. It is important to understand your own "window of tolerance" and work within those limits, as pushing yourself too far can lead to emotional overwhelm or retraumatization. Co-regulation with a safe person or trusted professional can help you stay within your window of tolerance and provide support when big feelings come up. It is essential to approach shadow work with care and intention, and work with a trained professional or support system to ensure a safe and transformative experience.

If you're wondering whether you're ready to start shadow work, here are a few signs that may indicate it's time to dive in.

1) You feel a sense of dissatisfaction or disconnection with your life, despite appearing successful on the surface. This can be from operating out of alignment with your authentic desires and true values, following instead what you “should” do (which can be largely based around what you’ve been conditioned to believe is “right” or “good”).

2) You may have repeating patterns or cycles of behavior that you can't seem to break free from. This can be caused by unconscious aspects of self (Shadow Aspects) influencing your perception and behavior by keeping you unconscious to the ways you may be participating in these patterns. This is not to victim blame, rather to become radically honest with the circumstance and bring attention back to what we can control, then upgrading our personal boundaries.

3) You may find yourself feeling triggered or reactive in certain situations or relationships, and can't understand why. This can often be as a result of putting unconscious expectations on others, witholding our personal needs, or shaming the parts of ourselves that have acted the way the other person is acting towards us now.

These are all signs that there may be unresolved issues or unexamined parts of yourself that could benefit from some shadow work. It's important to remember that everyone has a unique window of tolerance for processing difficult emotions, and it's crucial to have a safe and trusted person to co-regulate with when big feelings arise. Working with a qualified professional can also provide additional support and guidance along the way.