Structured, forward-focused coaching for adults who have escaped abuse and are ready to rebuild clarity, stability, and direction. Safe. Private. Virtual.
David A. Coalter is the founder of Trauma Recovery Specialists and the developer of the Internal Autonomy Framework™ — a structured, evidence-informed coaching methodology designed specifically for survivors of abuse who are ready to move forward with intention.
He is also the founder and clinical director of Morning Light Counseling, and has been counseling, coaching, and providing guidance to individuals and families for over thirty years. His work centers on helping survivors reclaim clarity, personal authority, and sustainable forward momentum after damaging relationships and circumstances.
All coaching at Trauma Recovery Specialists is clinically informed but non-clinical in nature, meaning the methods are grounded in the best science available while remaining focused on practical, goal-oriented progress rather than clinical treatment.
CredentialsMaster of Science (MS) · Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
MethodologyDeveloper of the Internal Autonomy Framework™
ExperienceOver 30 years counseling, coaching, and guiding survivors
Fit & Focus
Who This Work Is For
This practice is designed for a specific person at a specific stage. Understanding whether this is the right fit for you is the most important first step.
This is right for you if:
You have exited an abusive or controlling relationship and are no longer in immediate danger
You want to rebuild clarity, personal boundaries, and decision-making confidence
You are ready to move forward with intention rather than simply surviving day to day
You want structured, goal-oriented progress — not open-ended emotional processing
You are seeking a private, virtual engagement on your own schedule
This is not right for you if:
You are currently in a dangerous situation or experiencing ongoing abuse
You are in acute crisis and require emergency mental health intervention
You need clinical therapy, psychiatric care, or a formal diagnosis
You are not yet ready to engage in structured, forward-focused work
If you are currently in crisis, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) or your local emergency services. You matter, and help is available.
Investment
Services & Pricing
All sessions are conducted virtually, one-on-one, and tailored to your specific circumstances and goals. Every engagement begins with a free consultation.
Free Consultation
$0
20-minute phone call
Discuss your situation and goals
Determine if coaching is the right fit
No obligation or pressure
Scheduled at your convenience
CPTSD Assessment
$750
One-time · 90-minute session
In-depth 90-minute evaluation session
Comprehensive written report
Personalized recommendations
Ideal as a starting point for coaching
Most Popular
Core Engagement
$1,500
Per month · 3-month program
4 coaching sessions per month
Structured 3-month engagement
Forward-focused goal setting
Internal Autonomy Framework™ methodology
Session notes & action steps provided
Intensive Engagement
$2,000
Per month · 3-month program
4 coaching sessions per month
Weekly email check-ins with David
Structured 3-month engagement
Full Internal Autonomy Framework™
Priority scheduling & response
Single Session
$499
Previous clients only
Available to returning clients
Check-in or continuation session
Flexible scheduling
The Process
How It Works
A clear, structured path from first contact to forward momentum — no surprises, no pressure.
1
Free Consultation
A 20-minute phone call to discuss your situation, answer your questions, and determine if coaching is the right fit right now.
2
Stabilization Assessment
An optional but recommended 90-minute CPTSD assessment to establish a clear picture of where you are and where you want to go.
3
Begin Your Program
Choose the engagement that fits your needs and begin structured, goal-oriented sessions using the Internal Autonomy Framework™.
4
Build Forward Momentum
With each session, develop greater clarity, stability, and confidence — moving from survival toward intentional, sustainable living.
Client Experiences
What Clients Say
★★★★★
"I got more from two months with Dave than I did in over a decade of therapy."
— Paul M., Chicago, IL
★★★★★
"I can't believe the amount of garbage that came out of my head. Somehow Dave saw it, and I was able to get rid of it."
— Antonio C., Burbank, CA
★★★★★
"I love Dave! I've been in counseling since I was a kid in the foster system, but he was able to help me find a whole new life."
A 20-minute call with David — no pressure, no commitment. Just an honest conversation about where you are and whether this work is right for you right now.
If you are currently in crisis or danger, please do not wait. Contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988), the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or call 911. This practice does not provide crisis intervention or emergency services.
