Inner Helper

The Format

This format is designed to help access self-support in times of crisis.

In turbulent times in life, we rely not only on other people but also on our access to inner resources. This model combines various approaches to resource work—especially from the field of trauma therapy—into one unified process, enriched with elements from NLP.

Applications:

• This model can be used whenever you need to access an internal resource.
• The Inner Helper supports behavioral change. With a little practice, it can be used as a self-help tool.
• The Inner Helper is particularly effective for managing anxiety and illness.

Standard Steps:

1. Build rapport
2. Get to know the inner safe place
3. Connect with inner wisdom
4. Establish contact with inner helpers
5. Ask questions and receive answers
6. Anchor the experience
7. Give thanks and ensure ongoing connection

Detailed Description:

1. Build Rapport

Explain to the coachee the idea behind the Inner Helper and the key success factors. Build a strong rapport through your presence and attention, so the coachee feels safe and can let go.

2. Get to Know the Inner Safe Place

Begin the exercise with a short relaxation technique—perhaps using calming music or a mindfulness practice.

3. Connect with Inner Wisdom

• I now invite you to connect with a part of yourself we call your "inner wisdom."
• Your inner wisdom is the part of you that has access to all your parts, your complete knowledge, and the sum of your experiences and resources—your internal treasures.
• Take the time you need to connect with your inner wisdom from your safe place.
• Gently nod your head when you feel you've made contact with your inner wisdom.

4. Establish Contact with Inner Helpers

• Now ask your inner wisdom to connect you with one or more helpful beings, which we call your "inner helpers."
• Open your senses and simply observe what beings or symbols appear to you.
• Maybe you already know them from a time long ago—or maybe they are appearing to you now for the first time.

5. Ask Questions and Receive Answers

Invite the coachee to share their current life situation with the friendly being in their imagination.

6. Anchor the Experience

Ask the coachee to reconnect with their inner wisdom and helper and to feel the strength that this relationship brings. Then, anchor this experience.

7. Give Thanks and Ensure Continued Connection

Finally, express gratitude toward the inner wisdom and the inner helper—and affirm that the connection is ongoing and accessible in the future.