What is Shadow Work?

"If you bring forth what is within you, what you bring forth will save you."

- Gospel of Thomas

"Shadow" refers to the hidden, repressed, and denied parts of our personality and unique human expression. Our shadow is like a long bag we drag behind us, which carries our unwanted emotions, instincts, inner narratives, hidden expectations, longings, repulsions, etc. As we develop our sense of identify, every part of ourselves that is not compatible with that identity, is discarded into the bag.

Our shadow may seem intimidating, but it holds the key to new possibilities and untapped energy waiting to be experienced and expressed.

Shadow work is the process of discovering and building a relationship with our hidden messages, beliefs, emotions, and behaviors that unconsciously influence how we show up in our lives. By illuminating our unconscious life, we loosen the internal tangled ball of yarn, and reclaim vital energy for living an awake and authentic life.

My name is Dr. Michael Simmons. I host a safe, judgment-free, and transformational community to support individuals discover and befriend their hidden life.

I supports clients through a blend of individual support and intentional communal engagement. Book a free 30-minute discovery call with me to learn more. Check out the Packages & Pricing I offer for different points and seasons of your journey.

Book a Free Discovery Call

Dr. Michael Simmons

Shadow Work Coach | Initiator | Spiritual Guide

Ingrid, 34 (VA)

After my first Zoom session with Michael, I breathed a huge sigh of relief and thought, “I’m going to be okay. I’m going to find help here.” Traditional talk therapy sessions had helped me work through some of my deep fears and mental blocks towards motherhood and femininity. However, I found myself craving a more nuanced spiritual and psychological framework than what traditional therapy provided. I wanted new questions and refreshed perspectives. Turns out, I actually wanted shadow work! My husband was benefitting from his own shadow work sessions with Michael, so I decided to give it a go myself. Working with Michael these past few months has marked a turning point in my motherhood/identity journey. Michael is deeply skilled in the craft of coaching—his professionalism provides a safe, non-judgmental space for sharing, while his warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine care for his clients infuses every question he asks, metaphor he shares, and resource he offers. He listens with gracious attentiveness, never rushes, and isn’t afraid to witness ugly crying. Thank you, Michael, for all the beautiful new words and mental models. I feel like I’m continually upgrading my ability to process my own life. What a gift!

Shadow Work is for you if you are...

Navigating a major life transition or identity shift (e.g., divorce, parenthood, career change, midlife)
Feeling stuck or unable to move forward and longing for life to be "reanimated"
Reinacting self-sabotaging patterns in relationships, work, or personal growth
Wrestling with persistent shame, guilt, or a deep sense of being "not enough"
Battling procrastination, fear of failure—or fear of success
Ready to confront limiting beliefs that no longer serve you in
Feeling emotionally numb or emotionally flooded
Reacting intensely to triggers (e.g., rage, isolation, withdrawal)
Consistently activated by certain people, environments, or energies (e.g., road rage, resentment with a spouse, or friend)
Haunted by existential fears—especially around God, judgment, or divine punishment
Unable to fully see or embrace your inherent worth, strengths, or “inner gold”
Struggling to set boundaries or chronically overextending in relationships
Facing ongoing conflict or misunderstanding with others
Feeling fragmented—like different parts of you are in conflict or disconnected
Experiencing recurring dreams, nightmares, or powerful inner imagery that won’t let go
Longing for deeper purpose, authenticity, or a more integrated spiritual path
Ready to heal by moving forward in action

Book a Free Discovery Call

What you can expect from our time together

You can expect sacred and supportive space to challenge limiting beliefs, engage internalized shame narratives, and take decisive action toward the loving and whole life you desire. I often invite clients to begin our time with shared-silence, breath-work, body-scanning. I bring a present compassion, and a grounding presence allowing you to explore your hidden or unlived life with intention and care.

Tarot, Reiki, Dream Work

With consent, I incorporate intuitive and healing tools/practices such as Tarot, Reiki, and dream work to support your transformational journey. Tarot acts as a symbolic mirror, revealing hidden patterns and offering clarity about what’s unfolding in your inner world. Reiki supports balance, helping to align your body and mind so life-energy can move more freely and action you take is grounded in your soulful authenticity. Dream work—distinct from dream interpretation—is a way of listening to how psyche (soul) is speaking. Dreams offer insight into the deeper movements of your inner life and reveal where life is living you now. Together, these tools offer a holistic path to healing, growth, and deeper connection with your true self. Check out the testimonials page to hear from past and current clients!