About Dr. Denise Taylor

Reimagining later life with purpose, joy, and reflection

I guide, I inspire, I help people thrive

Born in 1957, I’ve learned that age is just a number. Life’s adventures don’t stop at retirement – they evolve and deepen.

I work with people who want more: fulfilment, meaning, and the courage to shape life on their own terms.

My work now spans consultancy with organisations, transformative experiences in nature, and one-to-one sessions with individuals: from short, focused conversations online to longer, deeper days at the Wood.

Key life events

At 60

I made the bold decision to end my marriage and sell my dream house.

At 61

I completed my first Vision Quest – a life-changing rite of passage involving 4 days and nights alone in nature.

At 62

I embarked on my doctoral studies.

At 63

I bought a private wood, deepening my connection with nature.

At 64

I became Dr. Denise Taylor – a significant achievement for someone who left school at 15 with 4 O levels.

At 65

I signed a contract to write "Rethinking Retirement for Positive Ageing."

At 66

I spent two weeks living with a Maasai tribe, immersing myself in indigenous culture.

At 67

I ran my first 2 nature retreats on my own land and spent 2 weeks in South Africa developing skills in tracks and signs to help in tracking animals.

My expertise

With over three decades as a Chartered Psychologist, my focus is on helping people thrive in later life. My doctoral research explored how individuals find meaning after full-time work, and I bring this together with lived experience to guide people and organisations through change.

I specialise in:

Later life transitions and conscious choices

Helping people navigate change with clarity and purpose.

Nature connection and deep reflection

From woodland days to Vision Quests, creating space for renewal and growth.

My approach

I combine academic rigour with a deep connection to nature and personal experience.

My own life transitions – from ending a long-term marriage to undertaking spiritual quests – have enriched my empathy and understanding, making me a relatable and effective guide.

Why choose me?

Academic credentials

Professional Doctorate in Occupational Psychology, MBA, MSc in Occupational Psychology, and more.

Diverse training

Mastery University with Anthony Robbins, Modern Elder Academy, studies with Gerard Egan and Deepak Chopra, and apprenticeship as a Vision Quest Guide.

Published author

Seven books including "Find Work at 50+" and "Rethinking Retirement for Positive Ageing".

Awards and recognition

Two-time National Career Awards winner (2007 and 2009) and 2024 recipient of the UK Career Development Award for research on post-retirement life.

Personal passions

Travel

From backpacking in India to living with a Maasai tribe, I love immersing myself in different cultures.

Nature

As owner of a private wood, I'm passionate about bushcraft, wild camping and have a deep connection to nature.

Continuous growth

Always seeking new challenges, like completing the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb at 60 despite my fear of heights, completion of three Vision Quests and completing the three-year training in Deep Imagery.

Ready to begin your journey?

Book a 30-minute session to explore how I can support you.

Whether you’re navigating a transition, seeking deeper purpose, or drawn to nature for renewal, this is a space to begin. Together we’ll look at what matters now and how to shape the next stage of your life with clarity and intention.