What is Shadow work Coaching?
Shadow Work Coaching is a transformative practice that guides you in exploring the parts of yourself you’ve learned to hide — your emotions, fears, patterns, and inner truths. Through compassionate guidance and mindful awareness, I help you uncover these hidden aspects so you can heal, grow, and reconnect with your authentic self.
Unlike traditional Shadow Coaching, which focuses more on mindset and performance, Shadow Work Coaching dives deeper into the emotional and spiritual layers of who you are. It’s not about fixing yourself — it’s about understanding yourself, embracing your wholeness, and learning to lead from a place of love and awareness.
Where do I come in? I’m Glad you asked!
Hello! My name is Sayen Gates, a Shadow Work Coach and Doula devoted to holding space for first-time mothers, experienced mothers, families, and individuals as they navigate life’s transitions. My work is rooted in compassion, awareness, and the belief that true healing begins when we embrace every part of ourselves—light and shadow alike. As a Professional Auntie and Godmother to 8 incredible children, I carry a deep understanding of nurturing, guidance, and unconditional love in everything I do.
How did it start?
Hailing from the southern roots of South Carolina, I’ve always carried a deep love for family and an even greater passion for connecting with people on a soul level. My journey began in the medical field, where I graduated as a Certified Medical Assistant in 2017. For six fulfilling years, I served others through hands-on care — but I soon realized that true healing extends beyond the physical. I was drawn to the unseen layers of wellness: the mind, emotions, and spirit.
That calling led me to begin unofficially coaching individuals toward self-awareness and emotional balance, offering guidance long before I recognized it as my life’s work. In 2020, I decided to step fully into my purpose, bringing my voice to the forefront through TikTok, where I began sharing reflections, insights, and practical tools for inner growth.
Today, I continue this mission through my podcast, “Shadow Corner,” where I help listeners deconstruct old foundations to create space for new beginnings — drawing from my own transformative journey. I’ve been honored to be featured in two best-selling books, Breaking the Silence: Voices of Survivors (Vol. 3) and Perspectives on Cancer: Stories of Healing, Hope, & Resilience, and to share my message as a speaker at various empowerment and wellness events. As your Shadow Work Coach, Doula, and Guide, I bring wisdom, lived experience, and compassion to support your journey of healing.
Favorite Quote:
“Never forget your real identity. You are a luminous conscious stardust being forged in the crucible of cosmic fire.” - Deepak Chopra
My Approach
Down to the Roots
Every aspect of our journey, from its inception to its culmination, can be traced back to a root cause. There are times when we find ourselves in a place we didn't anticipate, yet we can’t often pinpoint the decisions that led us there. Much like the vital role of healthy roots in nurturing plant growth, our own lives depend on a solid foundation. Without these sturdy foundations, change remains elusive, and abundance is a distant prospect. It's an invitation to cultivate personal growth and make better choices, ultimately paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future. Let's commit to growing and evolving, striving to do better in all aspects of our lives.
Mindfull or Mindful?
It's easy to get lost amidst the clutter of to-do lists and tasks, but it's equally important to distinguish between the practical aspects of life and our emotional landscape. Understanding our emotions and acknowledging the influence they wield over our daily lives is crucial. Through mindfulness, we gain the ability to manage situations more effectively and regain control over our actions and decisions. It's the practice of being present in the moment that empowers us to respond thoughtfully, rather than react impulsively, to the challenges life presents.
Facing your shadow
My approach goes beyond just teaching you how to handle your traumas and triggers; I guide you in confronting yourself within these challenges. Together, we identify the roots of these issues and establish a clear starting point for your healing journey. It's essential to intimately understand yourself and your inner workings before embarking on the path of self-growth. After all, true personal growth begins with self-awareness and self-acceptance.
Foresight For Self
What do vision boards, journals, affirmations, and quotes all share in common? They serve as powerful tools to reset your perspective for the future or to motivate you to make choices that align with your highest good. In this space, we engage in discussions about your aspirations, your dreams, your objectives, and above all, the exciting next chapter of your unique life story.
“We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.”