Vanessa Hughes, MA, SEP

COACH | CONSULTANT | EDUCATOR

I have an enthusiasm for life and I am passionate about participating in authentic human relationship. I am a USMC Veteran and firefighter with over 10 years of training and experience helping people do better at life. I am a certified trauma expert with 20 years of experience working with trauma in varying capacities. 

I hold the following Master’s degrees: Psychology, which focuses on individuals; Marriage and Family Therapy, which emphasizes relational dynamics and family systems; Intercultural Studies, which recognizes the importance of cultural milieu; and Theology, which examines the human condition in the greater context of our humanity and the symbols and stories that inform and help shape a sense of transcendent meaning and purpose.

I have trained in somatically-oriented psychotherapies and the study of neurophysiology, which recognize that the human person doesn’t merely inhabit their body, they are their body.

This combined anthropology has led me to developing an integrated, holistic approach to how I see and understand the clients I work with, as well as how I conceptualize the individual. I strive to cultivate my appreciation of each unique person in their pursuit of their authentic self in thriving relationships. To me, this is not just a goal of coaching; it is also our existential purpose as human beings.

I integrate an individual’s body, mind, and spirit/spirituality because sometimes we are stuck in one or all of these vital areas of our experience. I have received certifications and training in several modalities and practices that support an integrated approach to wellness. Learn more about the additional certifications and professional training I have received at the bottom of this page.

I am a trainer, professor, and speaker. In addition to my work as a coach, I am finishing up a PhD in Clinical Psychology and have spent the past years training for licensure as a Psychologist.  I have had the humbling opportunity to teach therapists, psychologists, and social workers who treat Veterans and other marginalized populations this body-focused approach to resolving trauma patterns.