Karen Smith

I am an emerging and soon to be credentialed coach with a background in Intensive Care nursing and more recently organisational development (leadership). I have worked clinically in both the private and public healthcare sectors in metropolitan areas such as Sydney and London, and now regional NSW (Central West) after making a purposeful tree change for family and life balance. I have held several leadership positions including Intensive Care Clinical Nurse Consultant and have postgraduate qualifications in intensive care nursing, adult education, and will complete my Master of Science Coaching Psychology in 2026. My coaching approach is grounded in evidence-based, psychologically informed methodologies, drawing primarily on cognitive behavioural coaching, strengths-based practices, person-centred principles, and considers the systems in which people operate. My coaching philosophy considers the broader organisational and relational dynamics influencing a person’s change experience, and values balance to support both wellbeing and performance within healthcare. It is an opportunity to give back, the shared experience of working in healthcare creates a foundation for an authentic coaching partnership, as there is a mutual understanding of the complexities and challenges in today’s healthcare environment. Outside of coaching, I enjoy traveling, remote camping, reading and attempting to improve my gardening skills which helps keep me balanced, challenged and connected to my family and friends.