You are a Somatic Coach. You placed a hand on a client’s shoulder to help them “ground.” The client froze. Two days later, you receive an email accusing you of unwanted touching and battery, threatening to go to the police and the press. You realize your “Coaching” policy might strictly forbid touching.
Key Takeaways
- Coach vs. Bodyworker: Life Coaches are generally “No Touch” professionals. If you touch a client, you might be stepping into “Massage Therapy” or “Bodywork” territory without a license.
- Battery is Intentional: Battery is defined as “unwanted touch.” Insurance covers negligence (accidents), not intentional torts like Battery, unless you have a specific endorsement.
- Sexual Misconduct Exclusion: Even a shoulder touch can be framed as sexual. You need “Abuse and Molestation Defense” coverage.
- The “Consent to Touch” Form: If you didn’t get written consent for physical contact, you are legally defenseless.
The “Why” (The Trap): The Bodywork Exclusion
I read the “Exclusions” on a Next Insurance coaching policy.
It stated: “Excluded: Any claim arising from bodywork, massage, or physical manipulation.”
If you identify as a “Somatic Coach” but bought a “Life Coach” policy, you are likely uninsured for touch. You need to be rated as a “Bodyworker” or “Somatic Practitioner” to have coverage for physical contact.
[IMAGE: Graphic showing a ‘Consent to Touch’ zone chart for somatic practitioners]
The Investigation: Insuring the Touch
I looked for policies that allow Somatic work.
1. ABMP (Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals)
- My Analysis: They cover “Somatic Experiencing” and other touch modalities.
- The Requirement: You must have a license (Massage) or certification (Somatic).
- The Benefit: They cover “General Liability” for the touch itself (e.g., if you press too hard and bruise them).
2. Westminster Insurance
- My Analysis: Good for “Healers.”
- The Clause: They allow “Hands-on Healing” (Reiki/Somatic) if you select it as a modality.
3. Standard Life Coach Policy
- My Analysis: Strictly hands-off. If you touch, you void the contract.
Comparison Table: Touch Liability
| Modality | Insurance Category | Touch Permitted? | Battery Defense? |
| Life Coach | Consultant | No | No |
| Somatic Coach | Bodyworker/Healer | Yes | Yes (Defense) |
| Reiki | Energy Worker | Yes | Yes |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check Your Classification: Log in. Does your policy say “Life Coach” or “Somatic Practitioner”? If the former, you are exposed.
- Implement “Active Consent”: In every session, before reaching out, ask: “Is it okay if I place my hand here?” Wait for a verbal “Yes.”
- Written Waiver: Your contract must say: “Somatic work involves physical touch. Client consents to touch for grounding purposes. Client may revoke consent at any time.”
- Apologize Professionally: If they complain, reply (with legal guidance): “I respect your boundaries and apologize if the grounding touch felt intrusive. I will ensure no physical contact in future sessions.”
FAQ Section
Is a hug considered battery?
It can be. In 2026, the standard is “enthusiastic consent.” Never initiate the hug.
What if I didn’t mean to hurt them?
Battery doesn’t require injury, just “offensive contact.” The intent to touch is enough, even if the intent was to heal.
Does this cover me if I’m accused of sexual assault?
Only the defense costs (lawyer), and only up to a sub-limit ($25k). If you are found guilty, coverage ends.