About Me
My Background
I live in Ireland but thanks to Zoom I can coach people anywhere in the world. Having grown up and lived in different countries I enjoy connecting with people from other cultures.
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I am a graduate of the University of Oxford, University College, Cork, Trinity College, Dublin, and the University of Surrey. My Undergraduate degree, two Masters' degrees and Doctorate span the disciplines of Theology, Irish Studies and Literature. I also have a Postgraduate Diploma in Coaching.
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Looking back it’s clear to me how I journeyed from a career in academic research and researcher training and development in the humanities towards coaching; I have been involved in facilitating the development of others for most of my professional life and it is really meaningful work! The difference with coaching is that the client is the 'content' expert and my role is that of thinking partner rather than teacher. I really enjoy this more collaborative kind of process and partnership.
For me, there is also a clear connection between my academic interests in literature and life-writing and my coaching. 'Storytelling' is an intrinsic part of the coaching conversation; the stories we tell ourselves - the ones we reach for to explain and define ourselves - hold enormous power over us and are largely responsible for our self-limiting beliefs and behaviours. The effects of drawing out alternative, more self-affirming, yet equally true, narrative threads can be transformative. I believe that my background equips me to bring a unique attention to this process.
My Coaching Philosophy
My coaching philosophy is centred on trust, acceptance, authenticity, and mindfulness. These values guide my approach to coaching, and help me to create a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their inner selves so that they can grow and thrive.
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Trust: It is important to me to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged. I strive to cultivate a sense of warmth and empathy in my coaching sessions so that clients feel heard and understood.
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Acceptance: I bring an attitude of acceptance to my coaching. This means accepting clients for who they are, rather than trying to impose my own values onto them. It is my aim to help clients develop a deeper sense of self-awareness, so that they can understand their own needs and desires, and make choices that are aligned with their own values and goals.
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Authenticity: Being authentic as a coach is crucial. This means cultivating an open and honest relationship with clients. I strive to be transparent and genuine in my interactions with them, so that they feel comfortable being themselves and sharing their innermost thoughts and feelings.
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Mindfulness: I believe in coaching mindfully, which means being fully present and engaged with clients in each moment. I strive to listen deeply, and to help clients develop a greater sense of awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. By being fully present, I aim to create a space where clients can explore their inner selves and develop greater self-awareness, leading to personal growth and change.
