Hello! My name is Paula Gardner, and I am a coach, trainer and therapist working with the PR industry. The first thing you may want to know is that I’m fully qualified, with a Masters in Business Psychology, and diplomas in coaching from Animas (ICF accredited) and psychotherapy with The Human Givens. I undertake regular CPD in topics such as addictions or working with ADHD to ensure that all my coaching, training and therapeutic work is of the highest quality and based on the latest research. Education is one of my strongest values and it’s important for me to know that my service to you is the best it can be.
Other things that may be interesting are:
I originally trained as a journalist and started my career in PR in the 90s
I have been working with or in the PR industry for over 25 years. Yep, that’s even before the dawn of Facebook
I have run my own PR and marketing company and get the struggles around money and the anxieties of bringing in the business
I have been a coach and mentor with the PRCA for five years, working with apprentices new to the PR industry
I am warm and practical. We’ll get good work done in our sessions, but we will also laugh at times
My approach means that it’s equally suitable for someone who wants to focus on improving one issue, as helping those who want to change and grow at a deep level
I have had two PR text books published, Get Noticed and Do Your Own PR, although they very definitely need updating!
Working with Paula Gardner
Most of my coaching and therapy work is online, via Zoom. However, I can visit corporate clients around the UK on occasions, and by agreement.
Speaking of which, organisations I have worked with include Mind South East and Central Essex, The Burnt Chef, Belmond, Parkdean Resorts, BA, the PRCA, Supermums, Digilearn, Pensar IT, Wake Up With Zest, Plamil Foods, Holiday Extras, The University of Lincoln, Bristol City Council, and Marvel Recruit.
Other interesting things about me
Volunteer coach with AgeUK
Mum to three young adults and a very handsome tabby
Early days cold water swimmer
Love working with narrative and stories
Book a chat if you’d like to discuss working with me.
Publications Featuring Paula Gardner
You can find Paula Gardner in The Guardian, SME, Stella magazine, Marie Claire, Psychologies and HR Zone, among others. Paula’s books are Do Your Own PR and Get Noticed. Paula is a Member of the Association for Business Psychology and The Human Givens Institute.
“Paula is not the usual coach and therapist. She lets you find your own feet, while guiding you, oh so subtly (so I do not have a 100 more things on my to do list after a session). I came out of my first session with tools, ideas, thoughts and some soft challenges.
I can’t express how much I would recommend her. The space she has created to allow ideas to percolate, be shared and actioned is lovely. At no point did I feel like I was a failure because I wasn’t there yet. Her many years in PR and running her own business are invaluable and just add another layer.”