Dr. Valentina Canessa-Pollard

I am a coaching psychologist, educator and eco-therapy practitioner who helps people navigate professional transitions and life changes with clarity, purpose, and psychological insight. 

My approach blends evidence-based psychology with the wisdom of nature. In addition to my coaching and leadership development work, I serve as a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Chichester. In this role, I am the curator of the Human Factor Professional Learning Programme, Academic Area Lead for Psychology and Criminology, and Programme lead for MSc Coaching Psychology and BSc Psychology Programmes, as well as Sustainability Lead for the Academic Area.

At the University, my research focuses on Coaching Psychology, particularly from Cognitive-Behavioural and Ecological perspectives, including career transitions, professional and academic development, and ethical leadership, as well as outdoor practice. I have also investigated the psychosocial factors involved in sexual violence, abuse and trauma prevention and recovery, as well as in developing theory-based interventions within an empowerment ethos to improve well-being outcomes for survivors of sexual violence and abuse. More recently, I have researched the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth.

My previous roles also include serving as Trainer, Researcher, and Volunteer Services Coordinator at Survivors’ Network Rape Crisis Centre in Brighton and as a Trustee for Rape Crisis England & Wales.

I am a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society. I hold a PhD in Psychology, and an Advanced Diploma in Coaching. Additionally, I hold the Eco-therapy Certificate by Tariki trust, and I am an associate member of the Coaching Psychology and Counselling Psychology Divisions of the British Psychological Society, a member of the Institute for Leadership, Association for Coaching (AC), an associate member of the International Society for Coaching Psychology (ISCP) and a member of the Climate Coaching Alliance.