Now truly and proudly middle-aged, I’ve come to understand how true the above quote is. After a lifelong career in startup finance and technology, I’ve finally embraced what I truly want to do—help others uncover their own truths.

In my early twenties, I proudly embraced therapy, but often encountered the “So Now What” feeling afterward. When I decided to shift my career, I began by studying at The Minster Centre in London, one of the most eminent psychotherapy schools. While I greatly respect psychotherapy, coaching resonated more deeply with me. As a natural empath and mentor, I often felt restricted by traditional frameworks. 

One of the greatest frustrations I have with traditional psychotherapy training is the way it often places therapists on a pedestal, creating unnecessary distance between them and their clients. How can genuine connection and trust develop when clients know nothing about the person guiding their journey?

While I fully agree the primary focus must always remain on the client, I believe strongly in the power of appropriate self-disclosure. When a coach authentically shares their own lived experiences, it normalises the human condition, helping clients feel less alone and more deeply understood. It fosters a relationship built on genuine connection, relatability, and mutual empathy.

I’m a certified coach having been trained by Dr. Sarah Madigan at her Spectacular School. What has transformed my perspective is the understanding that taking radical responsibility for one’s own life is essential. Though mindful of sounding overly idealistic, I firmly believe that for most of us, freedom, beauty, truth, and love (a nod to Moulin Rouge) are the keys to connecting with our true selves, our purpose, and, ultimately, our happiness. If you are wondering why I have decided to call my new coaching business Plain Talk - here are my thoughts.

If any of this resonates with you, I would love to work with you.

Adrian Melrose