Applying Therapeutic Coaching to Shift Beliefs of Welfare Recipients and Social Workers in the United States

Poverty is sustained not only by structural barriers but also by entrenched beliefs. This study evaluates Clear Beliefs trauma-informed coaching for New Jersey WorkFirst Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) clients and staff using a quasi-experimental design with pre/post belief measures and interviews. Coached clients showed sizable reductions in belief-related distress, dysfunctional cognitions, and strong negative emotions, alongside narratives of increased self-efficacy, reframing, and proactive problem solving. Staff reported reduced cynicism and clearer, more supportive roles. Despite attrition and nonrandom assignment, findings provide preliminary evidence that therapeutic coaching can shift maladaptive beliefs and relational climates, warranting rigorous trials with long-term economic outcomes.