Austin Recovery Coach Innovates Mental Health Support System
A recovery coach in Austin, Texas, is introducing a novel approach to addressing mental health challenges. Davis Collins, the founder of Amethyst Coaching Collaborative, combines physical workouts with therapeutic sessions to assist individuals grappling with their mental health. Collins emphasizes that many people are seeking alternative methods to cope, stating, “There are people that need something different, there are people right now that are waking up and praying for help.”
Collins’s own journey through addiction and a life-threatening experience inspired him to find ways to support others. He recalls, “I woke up upside down on Enfield Road in Austin, Texas, and my truck had split a telephone pole in half.” Through running and physical exercise, he found mental relief, but recognized that he needed more than just physical activity. “Connecting with your emotional body, starting to learn the tools that will keep you from abusing, and more so important, the why. The why is really the question everyone should ask,” Collins explains.
Creating a Holistic Approach to Mental Health
The central mission of Amethyst Coaching Collaborative is to foster a holistic balance in what Collins describes as an unbalanced life. He aims to educate individuals about the importance of connecting with all aspects of their being. Collins describes his initiative as a “one-stop shop” for physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental health, specifically targeting those facing addiction or mental health issues.
To further this mission, Collins has assembled a team of ten therapists, including Ilicia Balaban, the owner of Snowflakes Counseling, PLLC. Balaban expresses her enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting, “Your mental health matters just as much as your physical health, and yes, there is help out there for everyone.” She appreciates Collins’s unique approach, which merges physical and mental wellness strategies.
Balaban points out that while this combination has been popular in intensive care settings, individuals often struggle to maintain their coping mechanisms once they return to their communities. “I think it has been a really popular combination in higher levels of care for a long time, but then people come out of those treatment centers and they are back in their community, and it can be really hard to maintain the same skill set,” she explains.
Building a Supportive Community
Both Collins and Balaban stress the significance of a supportive network in navigating life’s challenges. Balaban comments, “Life is hard and life is getting harder for a lot of people.” Recognizing this, Collins envisions expanding his services to reach even more individuals in need of assistance.
The launch of Amethyst Coaching Collaborative highlights a growing trend towards integrating physical fitness with mental health support. Through this innovative model, Collins aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling in Austin and beyond. As he continues to develop his program, Collins remains committed to offering comprehensive care that addresses the diverse needs of his community.
