Hello, Im Zoe

Im a State Registered Occupational Therapist (HCPC no OT32403) with specialisms in Psychotherapeutic and Neurological Occupational Therapy.  I am also a Professional Senior Practitioner Coach and a Mindfulness & Compassion Practitioner.  I have over 30 years of experience working within the NHS, supporting people to navigate life's challenges and create meaningful, fulfilling lives.   I grew up in a household of NHS workers, with Grandparents who were working in healthcare at the start of the NHS.  The ethos and philosophy of service, care and compassion has been deeply woven into my life. 

Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals facing a wide range of physical health conditions, mental health difficulties, neurological conditions, cognitive challenges, long-term health conditions and life transitions. My passion has always been supporting people move beyond simply coping and managing and towards truly flourishing.

Alongside my clinical work, I have held senior leadership roles within the NHS, including leading an Allied Health Professional service across Hertfordshire.  I have spent many years supporting staff who work in healthcare services, managing large teams of health professionals, whilst navigating the needs of services and individuals. Across 30 years I have worked in many NHS hospitals, mental health services, community and rehabilitation services across London and Hertfordshire.  This has taught me alot about how to flourish under challenging circumstances.  

I believe that health and wellbeing are about much more than managing symptoms. They are about understanding the whole person—their values, strengths, relationships, environment, daily routines, hopes, spiritual life and aspirations.  Finding out what brings someone back to the spark of their life, unique to them, is the key to opening up brighter moments.  Make these into a habit and you have a brighter present, weave these into a pattern and you have a brighter future.  

I bring together Occupational Therapy, Psychotherapeutic approaches, coaching, mindfulness, compassion, and nervous system regulation to help people better understand themselves, build resilience and create sustainable change. I draw on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), mindfulness-based approaches and principles of nervous system regulation.

I have experienced health challenges myself with new understanding and diagnoses in mid-life.  I have cared for, and am caring for, parents during ill health and navigated the NHS as a 'customer' and advocate.  I know how frustrating it can be to live with chronic health conditions and/or support others with theirs.

I have been practicing mindfulness for over 20 years, compassion-based practices for at least 10 years.  I have tried many different interventions and had to search a long time to find out what was helpful for my own system.  During this time I also studied Buddhism and been an active part of a Christian community.  I am happy working with people of any faith, no faith, or exploring, and enjoy being part of this discovery.

The inspiration behind Flourish comes from a simple belief that every person is already whole, unique and not broken or damaged..  Flourishing is about expressing your authentic, connected, meaningful self, and this can be possible, even in challenging circumstances.  

 Whether you are navigating chronic illness, neurodivergence, caring responsibilities, retirement, workplace challenges, emotional difficulties, mid-life crisis, existential angst,  or simply seeking a greater sense of balance and fulfilment, I aim to provide a safe, compassionate and supportive space where you feel heard, understood and empowered.

My approach is warm, collaborative and person-centred. I work alongside you to uncover your strengths, develop practical strategies and create positive changes that align with what matters most to you.

When I'm not working, I can be found in nature, learning, spending time with friends, or seeking out moments of calm and connection—things I believe are essential ingredients for a flourishing life.

I would be honoured to meet, support and work with you, 

Warm wishes,

Zoe
Founder, Flourish Therapy & Coaching