Work With Me

I offer support to individuals and organisations who are committed to challenging the routines, systems and behaviours that have us feeling exhausted, not good enough, and believing that our worth is only measured by the hours we work.

My 1-2-1 holistic coaching support, trainings and circle of practice are all opportunities to explore a new path - one that does not lead to burnout, and which helps you or your team deepen into your gifts and your values, in ways which integrate both self- and collective care.

I also provide consultancy support in the form of research and training for organisations committed to deeper learning around the wellbeing of their staff and developing strategies which respect diversity, equity and inclusion.

My clients have included Open Society Foundations, ONE Campaign, Global Communities, and CISP (the International Committee for the Development of Peoples).

Contact me if you are interested in hiring me as your consultant.

An Approach Informed by Cutting Edge Research

I know from over 10 years of researching this topic, as well as going through my own burnout, that constantly pushing ourselves - or our colleagues - to always be more available, more committed, more giving to everyone else eventually has an impact on our own health and wellbeing. And it results in workplaces that are poisoned with bullying, rivalry and division - as well as high staff turnover.

When you work with me, we will get to the heart of some of the biggest concerns raised in my doctoral research and my book The Vulnerable Humanitarian: Ending Burnout Culture in the Aid Sector. These include:

Boundaries and the Weight We Carry

You care hugely about the job you do and the values you stand for. But sometimes you forget yourself and your needs. How to apply healthy boundaries that still keep us connected to the causes we care about without leaving us depleted and resentful?

Lack of Emotional Support

Do you feel alone in your struggles - at home and at work? Do you feel your emotions aren't welcome? They are when you work with me! We will look at how to honour grief, rage and other difficult emotions. And create cultures where people feel safe and supported to share what is in their hearts.

Loss of Purpose

Are you feeling fearful after yet more staffing cuts? Do you feel betrayed by your organisation, and that you have had to make tough choices that at times feel unethical (what is often called moral injury)? Let's explore how you can regain motivation and focus in ways that feel aligned with your values.

Testimonials from Workshop Attendees

"Having worked in the international development sector herself, Gemma was acutely aware of the particular challenges and stresses we face in our day to day work. Her approach was interactive, as well as informative.

She talked us through some techniques and exercises but also gave us the floor to talk and listen to each other about our feelings, both positive and negative, during this challenging time.

I liked this balance. We've each come away with a better sense of how to look after ourselves at this time, and each other".

Emma Haegeman, Senior Consultant at Social Development Direct.

"You helped us express our feelings as a team and be able to process them and eventually, we ended up feeling so much better at the end of the sessions. It's so great to let go of all the negativity and pressure built up throughout the month and start fresh, and for that, I'm very thankful".

Amina, NGO worker in Lebanon.

Let's Talk

Book your clarity call today to explore how I can help you.

Book Your Call