A recovery coach in Austin, Texas, is reshaping the landscape of mental health support by integrating physical fitness with psychological therapy. Davis Collins, the founder of Amethyst Coaching Collaborative, combines workouts with therapy sessions to assist individuals facing mental health challenges. His approach aims to offer a holistic solution for those seeking help in a non-traditional setting.
Collins’s personal journey, marked by his struggles with addiction and a life-altering near-death experience, motivated him to create a program that addresses the multifaceted nature of mental health. “I woke up upside down on Enfield Road in Austin, Texas, and my truck had split a telephone pole in half,” Collins recounted, highlighting the pivotal moment that led him to seek alternatives for coping.
Running and physical training became essential tools for his mental well-being, but Collins recognized the need for deeper emotional support. He stated, “Therapy is about connecting with your emotional body, learning the tools that prevent abuse, and understanding the fundamental question: the ‘why’ behind our actions.”
Holistic Approach to Mental Health
Amethyst Coaching Collaborative is designed to foster a balanced existence, offering resources for physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental health. This initiative particularly targets individuals grappling with addiction or mental health issues, creating a comprehensive support network. Collins has assembled a team of ten therapists, including Ilicia Balaban, the owner of Snowflakes Counseling, PLLC, who emphasizes the importance of combining physical and mental health strategies.
Balaban expressed her enthusiasm for Collins’s innovative approach, stating, “It has been a really popular combination in higher levels of care for a long time, but it’s challenging for people to maintain those skills once they return to their communities.” She noted that a robust support system is essential, especially as many individuals face increasingly difficult life circumstances.
The collaborative model aims to bridge the gap between intensive treatment facilities and community resources. By providing continuous support, Collins hopes to help individuals sustain their mental health gains after leaving formal treatment environments. “Your mental health matters just as much as your physical health,” Balaban remarked, reinforcing the notion that help is available for everyone.
Future Aspirations and Community Impact
Collins’s vision for Amethyst Coaching Collaborative extends beyond its current offerings. He aims to expand services and resources for individuals in need, continually exploring innovative methods to engage with and support the community. “There are people right now that are waking up and praying for help,” he said, underscoring the urgent need for accessible mental health support.
As awareness grows regarding mental health issues, initiatives like Amethyst Coaching Collaborative play a vital role in changing perceptions and delivering comprehensive care. By integrating physical activity with therapy, Collins is not only addressing immediate needs but also fostering long-term resilience among community members.
Through his work, Collins hopes to inspire others to embrace a holistic approach to mental well-being, proving that recovery and support can come in various forms. The collaborative’s mission serves as a beacon for those seeking assistance, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.
