How should coaches handle difficult emotions in coaching — and when is it time to refer a client on? In this episode of HCA Talks Health, we’re joined by Prof. Dr. Monique Marks, a clinical social worker, health coach, and visiting Professor at the University of Stellenbosch. With deep expertise in chronic illness management, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, and ADHD, Monique shares a grounded, compassionate approach to working with emotionally complex client presentations.

We explore how to hold space safely, recognise limits of scope, and build emotional resilience for coaches through supervision, reflective practice, and clear boundaries — so you can support clients effectively without burning out.

🎧 Tune in to discover:

Practical ways to hold difficult emotions while coaching

How to recognise red flags and when to refer (scope of practice)

Maintaining professional boundaries with empathy (not rigidity)

Using supervision and reflective practice to protect your wellbeing

Supporting clients with chronic illness, substance use, ADHD, anxiety and depression

Language to de-escalate sessions and keep clients safe

Plus much more

⏱️ Timestamps
0:00 Introduction
1:25 Why “difficult emotions” show up in coaching
5:40 Holding space vs. fixing: what clients truly need
10:10 Boundaries that protect both client and coach
14:45 Red flags and clear criteria for referral
19:30 Working alongside therapy and medical care
23:40 Supervision and reflective tools for resilience
28:10 Ethical decision-making in the moment
31:50 Final thoughts & how to reach Prof. Marks

—
🌱 More from The Health Coaches Academy
Follow HCA on Instagram → @healthcoachesacademy
Discover a rewarding career in Health & Wellness Coaching → https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com

📬 Connect with Prof. Dr. Monique Marks
Website: https://www.yourhealthprof.com/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 084 403 3934

🎙 Subscribe and Review
If you loved this episode, please subscribe to our channel and leave a review — it helps more coaches find these conversations. Thanks for tuning in to HCA Talks Health!