Bethany O'Connor

MA, ACC

Bethany O’Connor is an ICF-certified executive coach, and her client portfolio includes 1:1 leadership coaching with US Government office staff in Africa, Europe, and Latin America. She also provides individual and group coaching on leadership and burnout prevention.

For the first 12 years of her career, she managed US Government-funded reproductive health and HIV prevention projects focused on expanding access to critical health services for marginalized populations. She also developed and led workshops in Asia, Africa, and Washington, DC on subjects ranging from gender and sexual diversity to project management.

Coaching Approach

Bethany’s approach to coaching focuses on fostering deeper self-awareness, self-compassion and confidence in her clients. She is known for her strengths-based approach to coaching as well as her empathy. Because of her background in global health, she thrives in cross-cultural environments.​

Coaching Expertise
  • Burnout Prevention and Recovery
  • Cross-Cultural Communication
  • Mindfulness
  • Strengths-Based Leadership
  • Values, Vision and Purpose
Bethany’s Testimonials:

Bethany helped me realize my full potential at a time when I was deciding on my next step. Through her incredible ability to truly listen and gently untangle others’ thoughts, Bethany coached me through some intellectual insecurities that had been holding me back for some time. Her kindness and never-ending enthusiasm left me feeling excited, strong, and motivated after each session. I had never thought to work with a coach, but the experience has been so wonderful that I would recommend Bethany to anyone working through life hurdles—no matter how big or small!

Melissa Schnure, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

I needed Bethany’s guidance on transitioning into more senior leadership roles along with an appreciation for my unique approach and perspectives. Drawing on her own professional experiences as well as her coaching talents- Bethany helped me to identify my strengths and how to articulate them. She talked me through some of my blind spots and how to overcome obstacles- including those I had placed on myself. With a caring and appreciative inquiry, she helped me build the confidence I needed to take on the more complex role. Thanks Bethany!

Ryan Ubuntu Olson, Palladium

Bethany coached me on taking time for myself and stop putting all my energy into my career and family. As a single parent and entrepreneur, it was a lot I was holding onto. She helped me uncover deep insights that allowed me to see my options from different perspectives that released the strangle-hold I had on myself and my time. I loved working with Bethany because from the first coaching experience, I felt her caring, compassion and strength give me the support I needed to explore what was holding me back. I am new to using a coach and honestly, I can’t express how much stronger and more confident I feel in the decisions I make for myself and my family. I highly recommend Bethany!

Nina Jolic, Evalign Inc.

Bethany helped guide me at a time of transition where I felt lost. With her ability to hold space, while providing a container to help me push towards my goals, I felt cared for, challenged, and empowered. Bethany is valuable to this field as a kind, compassionate, and motivated coach; she truly got excited for me and my dreams. She has inspired me to continue to pursue my dreams, goals, and visions for my future! Coaching with Bethany is something I hope to continue to pursue throughout my life, when needed.

Kelsie Rook, Therapist