Brain in Hand Coach Spotlight: Meet Sophie
Can you introduce yourself?
Hi, I’m Sophie. I joined Brain in Hand as a coach in September 2024, and it’s been an exciting journey so far. My academic background is in Psychology, with a bachelor's degree and a master's in forensic psychology. I’m currently studying for my PhD alongside my work as a coach. Balancing my studies with coaching has allowed me to apply my understanding of human behaviour to help individuals grow and achieve. When I’m not working or studying, you’ll likely find me spending time with my family and friends - they're my biggest cheerleaders and motivators.
On becoming a Brain in Hand coach
I became a coach because I was truly inspired by Brain in Hand’s mission to create a fairer, more accessible world. The idea of providing individuals with the tools and support they need to overcome and manage challenges was important to me. After working as a Specialist Mental Health Mentor, where I was able to help students break down barriers to their learning, I realised that I wanted to take the next step. I wanted to be part of a process that allows individuals to navigate obstacles and encourages them to grow, reach their potential, and thrive in the long term. Coaching feels like a natural extension of my passion for helping others achieve meaningful progress in all that they do.
Professional background and experiences
I’ve spent the last two years working as a Specialist Mental Health Mentor, supporting students in higher education who have a range of additional needs. This role gave me a deep understanding of neurodiversity and the barriers individuals face in society as a result. My PhD research in Psychology has further enriched my knowledge and ability to offer evidence-based support.
Before working as a mentor, I gained valuable experience working with children in a nursery setting while also volunteering at a local youth centre and a support group for adults experiencing mental health difficulties. These roles allowed me to engage with a diverse range of individuals, helping them navigate personal challenges and achieve their goals.
I’ve provided highly specialised, tailored support, always adopting a person-centred approach. Active listening is central to my work, allowing me to truly understand the needs, goals, and aspirations of everyone I have worked with. By combining this understanding with evidence-based techniques, I create personalised coaching sessions that empower people to overcome barriers and spend more time focusing on what matters most to them.
Expertise as a coach
My expertise in Psychology, combined with my experience as a Specialist Mental Health Mentor, plays a crucial role in my effectiveness as a coach. I have a deep understanding of neurodiversity and the barriers that individuals face due to stigma, which allows me to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients. This helps me to recognise the unique challenges that people encounter, enabling me to tailor my coaching strategies to fit their individual needs.
My knowledge of Psychology enhances my understanding of human behaviour and mental health, which I apply in my coaching practice. This informs my approach, helping me engage with clients on a deeper level and address their needs more effectively. I adopt a strong person-centred approach to my coaching. By practising active listening and empathy, I can better understand the aspirations of the individuals I work with. This enables me to build trust and rapport, which are essential components of effective coaching.
The coaching process
At the beginning of your coaching journey, you will spend time with your Brain in Hand coach discussing what matters most to you. This initial conversation is crucial, as it allows us to identify your unique strengths and the barriers or challenges you may be facing. By understanding your personal aspirations, we can create a tailored plan that focuses on your strengths to overcome these obstacles.
Throughout regular coaching sessions, you can expect a supportive and collaborative environment where you will build confidence and independence in managing situations that may have previously felt overwhelming. We’ll incorporate Brain in Hand’s digital tools to enhance your experience and provide you with practical resources that you can access anytime.
Over time, you’ll work closely with your coach to develop personalised strategies and solutions for the barriers you’ve identified. You’ll create valuable content within your Brain in Hand account, ensuring that your personalised solutions are readily available when you need them.
My goal as a Brain in Hand coach is to provide strengths-based support that empowers users to make positive changes in their life. I’m here to encourage those I work with to spend more time doing the things they love, helping them to navigate challenges and celebrate successes along the way.
The benefits of personalised support from Brain in Hand
Personalised coaching, combined with Brain in Hand’s digital tools, empowers individuals to recognise the skills and strengths they already possess, enabling them to create positive change in their lives. By focusing on solution-oriented support, we provide coachees with effective resources and strategies tailored to their current and future goals, allowing them to begin working towards them right away.
In my brief time as a coach so far, I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of users, each with unique aspirations and interests. For instance, I’ve seen individuals develop practical strategies for managing anxiety more effectively. Additionally, some users have gained increased independence in their daily lives, learning to navigate challenges with newfound confidence.
The power of coaching
Coaching can be a catalyst for positive change, helping individuals build independence, achieve their goals, improve their mindset, and cope more effectively with challenges. One of the key benefits of coaching is that it encourages individuals to take ownership of their personal journeys. By setting clear goals and developing plans, Brain in Hand users can experience a sense of empowerment that boosts their confidence and independence.
In my coaching journey, I’ve already witnessed positive changes in the individuals I work with. Users often come into coaching sessions aiming to improve their independence after a significant life change. Together, we build practical skills and strategies that empower them to manage daily tasks with confidence. Overall, coaching offers individuals the tools and support they need to navigate their unique challenges and realise their potential, leading to meaningful change.
Sophie’s advice for new users
Reaching out for support can be a significant step, especially if you’re facing challenges related to mental health or neurodiversity. It’s understandable to feel like you’ve tried various approaches in the past that haven’t worked, leading to frustration. I understand how daunting it can be to consider coaching as an option, but as a coach who has witnessed firsthand the positive impact of solution-focused, strength-based coaching alongside Brain in Hand’s digital tools, I encourage you to give it a try and see if it works for you. By taking the step towards coaching, you are prioritising your well-being and investing in your personal growth. Together we can work towards achieving your goals and overcoming challenges.
Empowering Brain in Hand users
I’m so excited to be a coach at Brain in Hand! Helping individuals to achieve their goals and reach their potential by empowering individuals is a passion of mine. I truly believe that everyone has the capacity for growth, and my role is to support individuals in discovering their strengths to make the positive changes they want to see in their lives.
I also want to encourage anyone considering coaching to remember that it’s a collaborative process. Your experiences are invaluable and together, we can create a plan that is important to you. I’m looking forward to continuing my role as a Coach at Brain in Hand and helping many more individuals unlock their true potential.