About Dr. Denise Taylor

Elder, Adventurer, Vision Quest Guide, Award-Winning Coach and Author

I guide, I inspire, I coach

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

I work with people with the energy and passion to want more, to feel fulfilled and to have the life they want. It doesn’t have to be a traditional path. You could plan for a life without paid work, whatever works best for you. And no choice is forever, we can change at any time.

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 of experience as a Chartered Psychologist, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people understand themselves better and create more joyful lives.

My doctoral research focused on how people make successful transitions to retirement, making me uniquely qualified to guide you through this exciting life stage.

I specialise in:

Later life transitions

Helping you navigate the complexities of retirement and find fulfilment in your next chapter.

Nature connection

Offering nature awareness days and retreats in our private wood, as well as guiding Vision Quests for those seeking deeper personal insights.

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 coach.

Why choose me?

Academic credentials

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

Awards and recognition

Two-time National Career Awards winner (2007 and 2009) and in 2024 I received the UK Career Development ‘Research by a Career Development Professional’ Award for my study on post-retirement life. This explored how individuals find meaning after full-time employment and identified which psychological factors contributed to a fulfilling retirement.

Diverse training

This included Mastery University with Anthony Robbins, Modern Elder Academy, Courses with Gerard Egan, Deepak Chopra and more, and as an apprentice Vision Quest Guide.

Published author

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

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 free 20-minute consultation to discuss how we can work together.

I’m here to inspire and guide you, whether you are at a transition or seeking a deeper connection with nature. Let’s work together to make your next life stage your most fulfilling yet.