who i am
Compassion & Resilience Coaching
Hello and welcome! I’m Vira Salzburn, founder of Held Centered, where my passion is holding you with tender strength and guiding you back to your true, resilient self. As a certified Mindful Self-Compassion teacher and resilience coach, I create a compassionate container in which you can become your own best teacher. Here, you’ll always be seen, supported, and held centered.
Shaped by years of leadership in trauma-informed education and community resilience, I combine evidence-based practices with warmth and clarity. Whether we’re exploring self-compassion exercises, building emotional regulation skills, or crafting strategies to navigate life’s challenges, my approach is always rooted in presence, kindness, and deep respect for your unique journey.
I draw my energy from dancing salsa, lifting weights, writing poetry, and caring for my loved ones, who remind me daily of life’s simplest joys. As a Ukrainian American and lifelong student of language and culture, I speak four languages and bring curiosity and openness into each session. I invite you to discover the language of your own heart and trust your inner wisdom, so you can be your own best holder and the held.
Thank you for being here.
Connect with me:
How i serve
“Just like you, I am the needy and the needed. Just like me, you are the holder and the held.”
- Personalized 1-on-1 Coaching
Through personalized one-on-one coaching, you’ll receive a compassionate, tailored partnership designed to deepen self-compassion, build lasting resilience, and equip you with practical tools to face life’s challenges with clarity and courage.
- Conference Keynotes & Leadership Talks
Through impactful keynote presentations and leadership talks, you’ll experience a compassionate, trauma-informed learning environment designed to strengthen resilience, deepen self-awareness, and equip you with practical tools to lead with clarity, courage, and confidence.
What I create
Watch my TEDx Talk:
How to make hearts dance again
I was going to say “goodbye” to the sun—
It’s been good to me
since I woke up this morning
with pain in my joints,
plans in my journal.
I didn’t have to chase it—
it’s been waiting for me on the wall,
in the thin gap between the curtains.
As new as an idea,
as old as an opinion.
It meant to show me something other than what I sought—
the reason for light,
not the light of reason.
“I understand,” I sighed.
“You don’t exist for me
or because of me—
we exist together.”
So we went about our day,
performing our rituals,
perfecting our love.
I was going to say “goodbye” to the sun—
instead, I said “thank you.”
– by Vira Salzburn
how i impact
Restored Clarity
Twenty years ago, I wore a crisis counselor hat and worked with high-risk youth, both of which required intensive training. This program brought back some techniques that I have not used in many years but most certainly will reimplement into my own personal life.
– Stay at Home Parent
Practical Insight
I’m delighted to have the tools from this course in my “holistic toolbox,” and I use them daily, for both myself and those around me.
– Learning & Development Professional
Lasting Change
This course provided me with a real way to manage my emotions in every facet of my life. I have a lot of work to do, and am so grateful for Vira’s excellent instructions and this program.
– Nonprofit Executive
FAQs
How are the coaching sessions conducted?
Our coaching sessions are conducted online, ensuring confidentiality, convenience, and accessibility for clients worldwide.
What is compassion and resilience coaching?
Compassion and resilience coaching is a personalized process to support individuals in cultivating self-compassion, strengthening emotional resilience, and equipping them with practical tools to face life’s challenges with confidence and equanimity.
What commitment is required?
A commitment to compassion and resilience coaching requires regular attendance at sessions, openness to self-reflection and change, and a willingness to actively apply learned strategies in daily life.
What results can I expect from the compassion and resilience coaching?
You can expect to cultivate a kinder, more supportive inner dialogue and practical strategies for navigating difficult emotions with greater ease, leading to increased emotional balance and resilience. Over time, this growth deepens your self-awareness, strengthens your capacity to bounce back from setbacks, and enriches your relationships through more mindful, compassionate communication.
How much does the coaching cost?
Coaching fees vary depending on the chosen program and its duration. Special rates are available for nonprofit professionals, educators, and first responders. For detailed pricing and package information, please contact Vira at heldcentered@gmail.com.
How do I start with the compassion and resilience coaching process?
To start with the coaching process, simply reach out to Vira by emailing heldcentered@gmail.com or texting/calling (912) 661-0577. We’ll schedule an initial consultation to discuss your goals, answer any questions, and determine the best coaching plan tailored to your needs.
How do I know if the coaching is working?
You’ll know it’s working when you naturally respond to stress with self-kindness and composure, recover from setbacks more quickly, and reach for the tools you’ve learned without prompting. Over time, these shifts will show up as kinder self-talk, deeper self-awareness, and more mindful, compassionate interactions with others.
Who can benefit from this coaching?
Anyone seeking to cultivate deeper self-compassion and resilience can benefit from this coaching. It’s particularly valuable for leaders, caregivers, and anyone navigating stress, transitions, or personal growth journeys.
Consultation
Ready to embark on a journey?
Schedule your free consultation and find out how compassion and resilience coaching can support you.
heldcentered@gmail.com
912.661.0577