Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Adam Coffey. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Adam , thanks for joining us today. Let’s start with a fun one – what’s something you believe that most people in your industry (or in general) disagree with?

My experience, education, and ongoing learning from clients suggest that most people who encounter mental-health problems can go on to fully or mostly recover from them. Many mental-health professionals have attempted to reduce “mental illness“ to biology, or more specifically, neurology. Even though I’m not a biologist or neurologist, I do not believe that true wellness only requires the right medication or other external treatments. Instead, those with whom I have collaborated in discovering their strengths, building their skills, and changing their situations have really enjoyed all that life has to offer.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

While studying psychology in college, I realized that my academic interests, potential career, and purpose in life could all align. This alignment excited me, and so I continued to learn as much as I could about guiding and serving others. Now, I predominantly do therapy with couples to strengthen their connections as well as coaching with executives to optimize their leadership. For both therapy and professional coaching, my approach is based in mindfulness, with a specific emphasis on assessing and promoting emotional intelligence. I’m very grateful for my 31-year career and the privilege others have given me to better the quality of their relationships, companies, and lives.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Despite growing up economically poor, my grandfather taught me the values of a diligent work ethic and respecting others. By 17, I had become financially independent, enrolling in full-time college and continuing to work multiple jobs. Consequently, my free time was limited, but I gained a deep appreciation for formal education, customer service, and general persistence.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Mostly due to religious affiliation, I grew up often being motivated by fear. I thought frequently about what I didn’t want rather than what I did want. Later in high school and then in college, I began asking questions that had previously gone insufficiently (or not at all) answered. After completing a major in religion, including much study in comparative religion, I began shifting into a place that aimed for my aspirations rather than avoiding my fears. This shift in perspective has made a huge difference in the quality of my life.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.drcoffey.net; www.adleycoaching.com
• Instagram: dradamdcoffey
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/dradamcoffey
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/adCoffey
• Twitter: @dradamcoffey