About Paola

My love for transformation is a fire that lives in the houses of my mente (mind), cuerpo (body) y alma (spirit).

Paola Laird is an internationally-recognized somatics coach with over 12 years of experience in somatic leadership, trauma healing and professional coaching. Paola’s dynamic coaching programs and warrior-spirit has led her to work with industry leaders in both the private and public sector, as well as pioneering organizations in technology, media, arts and culture.

Certified in somatic coaching from the Strozzi Institute in Petaluma, California, Paola’s clients include the Black Lives Matter Global Network, RJACK, the National Domestic Workers Alliance, the International Domestic Worker Federation in South America and many more.

Originally from Argentina, Paola is a mom to a young adult. She lives in Oakland, CA with her partner, and pup Luna. Paola loves rock climbing and the outdoors. She is also an avid gardener; growing her own avocados, citrus fruit, and seasonal vegetables. Paola is the founder and creator of Paola Somatics Coaching & Consulting.

I am a profoundly passionate person who believes in the importance of laughter and joy. I enter my coaching relationships courageously with great love and rigor. And I fight for what my clients want out of life. I want for you what you dream for yourself. I see the warrior in you. I believe that it is our birthright to have an abundance of safety, connection, belonging and dignity in our lifetime.

Systemic oppression is debilitating. To create safety and liberation in a world that consistently uses power against BIPOC leaders can be devastating to the mind, body and spirit. It chips away our inherent power and the courage it takes to make brave changes in our lives, at work and in the world. Most people think if you’re a leader, you have all the answers. How often have BIPOC women leaders been told by their white supervisors that they aren't “professional” enough? Or that they need to be “less accommodating” and “more confident’?

These are painful messages that our bodies absorb.

And when we don’t know how to manage our biological safety triggers (fight, flight or freeze), we risk believing in and acting out on these harmful messages.

My practice supports BIPOC leaders to stay in the moment with unwavering integrity, in order to navigate anxiety, shame, and mental paralysis that often comes with living and working in a world of white supremacy.

Recommitting and returning and refacing every time. I believe in being awake to feel all of that. I believe when leaders are empowered, we assume and come to expect dignity from ourselves and those around us. I bring accessible strategies for transformation that are in alignment with the values my clients treasure most.

I believe in direct and compassionate feedback.

I am a champion of my clients’ transformation and healing journey.