Hi, I’m Isabella!
As a little girl, I always dreamt of influencing systematic change. With a less than traditional upbringing, my childhood could be described as "turbulent", to say the least. Being raised by the most powerful single mother I know, Resilience was not a choice but a way of life. Because of the trials and tribulations we experienced, I always knew I wanted more. Not just for myself but for others as well. Maybe it is the “Rescuer - Inner Child” in me that never really went away. So that’s what’s led me here to you now in the first place – a passion and purpose to help to heal others in the same way I’ve healed myself.
Growing up, neglect, emotional abuse, and violence were conditions that were present in the homes we were raised in. Having been humbled by multiple Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) before the age of 10, I am no stranger to adversity and the rewarding journey associated with overcoming it. As I grew older, I became wildly passionate about helping others who had experienced trauma, just as I had. At age 15, I was the first in my family to start college and pursued a degree in psychology. Not long after beginning my Master’s program, I began climbing the corporate ladder in various Executive Human Resources Roles at both startups and Fortune 500 companies.
Professional Experience
First and foremost, I am a nurturer, protector, educator, mentor and friend. Trauma Informed Resiliency Coaching is my passion and subsequently profession! In a past life, my 7+ years of Human Resources and Change Leadership experience allowed me to hold many Executive Leadership roles. I’ve worked for the best of them: US Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Live Nation Entertainment, Viacom, MTV and Paramount Studios.
Certifications: Trauma Informed Care (TIC), Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), Somatic Experiencing (SE)
Visit THE IMANI MVMT blog to learn more ♥️
Getting Personal
It wasn’t until a painful heartbreak in 2019 when my world changed. It is what inspired me to quit my Head of HR and Operations role in Los Angeles to dive head first into personal development and jump start my entrepreneurial journey. Now, I live a fulfilling life doing what I love, in support of those I love. As such, I found that the traditional therapeutic model often fell short when it came to trauma. The therapists I had worked with had the education but lacked the integrated experience. That’s when I discovered trauma-informed care, which emphasizes safety, trust, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural humility, and found that this approach resonated deeply with my own experiences and values.
As the Founder of THE IMANI MVMT, a Trauma-Informed Resiliency Coaching Company, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals and high-level executives navigate the complex world of corporate leadership while addressing the unique challenges that can arise from past trauma. Often times the fear of re-experiencing past pain prevents us from pursuing new experiences. With a background in Executive HR functions, psychology and executive coaching, my personal and professional experience brings a deep understanding of the intersection between personal trauma and professional success. When working with my clients, we balance empathy and pragmatism, while asking tough questions and challenging assumptions.
By drawing from my own personal and professional experiences, I am fortunate to help others heal from their trauma and reclaim their lives. My approach is holistic and client-centered, recognizing that healing is a journey that looks different for everyone. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with clients to identify their strengths and build on them, while also addressing the root causes of their trauma and developing healthy coping mechanisms.At the core of childhood trauma is a profound impact on ones development - affecting their ability to trust others, form healthy relationships, and regulate their emotions. Nothing is more meaningful to me than helping individuals overcome their own trauma and find a sense of peace and wholeness in their lives. I am a passionate advocate for Trauma-Informed Care, Social Emotional Learning and Resiliency. I have developed a passion for my ability to navigate complex power dynamics, build strong relationships, and create safe spaces for my clients to explore difficult emotions and experiences.
Currently, I am grateful for the freedom and flexibility to support thousands through 1:1, Group and Corporate Coaching, Public Speaking Engagements and customized Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Programs (THE IMANI MVMT Resilience Planner!). I have published several books that integrate Trauma Informed Care with Social Emotional Learning. In my line of work, education is the embodiment of empowerment. My educational background in Psychology paired with my Executive Leadership experience has allowed me to bridge the gap between individuals and institutions in order to provide attainable and sustainable mental health solutions that work. It is my belief that by addressing the root cause of individual and systemic issues (vs the symptoms) we can create the incremental, structural and transformative change we wish to see in the world.
It’s how we will heal the collective, one individual at a time.
