Going back to work after parental leave is a big change, and it can feel like everything lands at once. Daycare drop-offs, feeding plans, the mental load, mum guilt, self-doubt, a new routine, and settling back into work, all while you’re still running on very little sleep.
Whether you’re getting ready to go back or are within your first 12 months back, I’ll help you feel calmer, more organised and more confident, whether you’re returning to your old role or starting somewhere new.
How it works
There are two parts to my return-to-work coaching.
You can choose one, or do both for the full journey.
Return to Work:
Prepare
90-minute session, 1–3 months before you go back
Before we meet, you’ll fill in a simple Return to Work Wheel. Together we focus on what matters most to you, from childcare and logistics to talking to your manager about flexibility, and you leave with a clear plan for your return.
$180
Return to Work:
Settling In
6 x 60-minute sessions over about 4 months
Ongoing support once you’re back and the reality hits. Sessions are more frequent at the start, then space out as you settle. Each one focuses on whatever’s coming up for you, from managing your workload and energy to rebuilding confidence in your role, with practical tips and tools between sessions.
$990
Settling In and the Full Journey can be paid upfront, or in 3 monthly instalments.
What we might talk about
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Logistics and routines: childcare, drop-offs, feeding, sleep, sick days, working hours
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The juggle and the mental load: the washing, cleaning, cooking (the list goes on), and the mental load (who project manages it all)
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Emotions and guilt: guilt about leaving baby, hard drop-offs, and feeling like you’re not on top of it all at work
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Confidence and identity: any self-doubt that comes up and how to overcome it, and who you are now, as a mum and at work
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Boundaries and wellbeing: work and home boundaries, simple, realistic ways to look after yourself
By the end, you will feel:
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Calmer, with a clear plan for your return
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More organised, with the load shared more fairly
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Lighter, with ways to work through the guilt
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Confident, and more like yourself again
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Clearer about your boundaries, with simple ways to look after yourself
You’ll re-score your Return to Work Wheel in your final session, so you can see how far you’ve come.
About me
Hi, I’m Ruth. I’m a working mum to a busy toddler, so I know first-hand how much going back to work can bring up: the guilt, the wobbles in confidence, the mental load, and the pressure to be good at everything without letting anything slip.
I’ve been coaching for over 5 years, supporting women to manage the juggle of work, family and everything in between. Now I focus on helping mums through one of the biggest transitions of all: the return to work.
I’m an Accredited Wellbeing Coach (Association for Coaching) and a Certified Infant Massage Instructor (IAIM). My People & Culture background means I can help with the work side too: knowing your options, planning the conversation with your manager, and feeling confident walking back in.
FAQs
When should I book?
Prepare works best 1–3 months before you go back. Settling In starts in your first week or two back, but you can join any time in your first 12 months back.
Do I need to do both?
No. Some mums just want a plan before they go back, and others want support once they’re there. The full journey gives you both.
Is it confidential?
Yes. Our sessions are confidential, within the limits set out in my coaching agreement (for example, if there’s a concern for your safety or someone else’s). I’ll talk you through this in our first session.
Can my employer pay for this?
Many workplaces have budgets for coaching, professional development or wellbeing. I can provide an invoice in your employer’s name, so it’s worth asking your manager or HR.
Is this the same as counselling?
No. Coaching is forward-focused and practical: we look at where you are now and what will help you move forward. If something comes up that needs more specialist support, I’ll help you find the right person.
Can I bring my baby?
Yes! Online sessions are easiest with baby nearby, and babies are welcome at in-person sessions too.
What if I need to reschedule?
Life with little ones is unpredictable. Just give me 48 hours’ notice and we’ll find another time.
Ready to get started?
Choose the option that suits you and book your first session.
Not sure which option is right for you? I’m happy to have a quick chat. Book a free chat here.
Employers: I also offer return-to-work coaching for your staff. Get in touch for details.