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 Rachel Schmidt BSW, PLC

work life balance

Rachel is a seasoned leader, consultant, and creative facilitator who blends holistic, compassionate approaches with a deep understanding of human potential. With over 30 years of experience spanning social work, global development, project management, and teaching, Rachel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and is certified in Psychosynthesis, a depth psychology practice that integrates mind, body, and transpersonal aspects of the self. This certification, combined with her extensive background in social work and compassionate leadership, allows Rachel to offer a uniquely comprehensive approach to personal and professional growth.

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For the past 12 years, Rachel has supported women, physicians, academic chairs, and senior management teams to enhance their leadership skills, achieve their goals, and navigate complex system improvements. Her work helps individuals find clarity, build resilience, and make meaningful contributions in their professional lives.

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As a documentary filmmaker, Rachel has collaborated with international organizations such as the Nobel Women’s Initiative and Rights Action to produce and direct impactful human rights films. Her award-winning film, Defensora, is featured in the curriculum of law schools across Canada and the US.

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Rachel is also deeply inspired by the natural world, integrating nature-based mindfulness, contemplative arts, and creativity into her practice. Through courses like Songs of Nature, she empowers women to tap into the wisdom of nature, deepen their creative practice, and awaken new possibilities in both personal and professional life. These courses encourage participants to connect with their true essence and explore new perspectives that promote well-being, artistic expression, and meaningful change.

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In addition to her professional work, Rachel is a mother, activist, and artist. She finds joy in paddling her kayak across quiet lakes, exploring under starry skies, and embracing new experiences along the way. Rachel’s warm, empathetic approach is rooted in her commitment to helping people create purposeful, fulfilling lives and careers, grounded in creativity, mindfulness, and self-compassion.

Expertise

Qualifications

  • Contemplative & Expressive Arts 

  • Nature-Based Mindfulness 

  • Career Transitions

  • Midlife Transitions

  • ​Organizational Development

  • Strategic Project Management

  • Small & Large Group Facilitation

  • Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Practices

  • Psychosynthesis Professional Coaching

  • Complex Systems Change Management

  • Compassionate Leadership Development

  • Recovery from Burnout 

  • Culture Transformation

  • Women's Empowerment

  • Community Development​

  • ​Loss & Grief 

  • ​Certified Psychosynthesis Coach, The Synthesis Centre, San Francisco 2021 

  • Documentary Film Program, Langara College 2005

  • Bachelor of Social Work - University of Victoria 1991

  • Social Work Diploma - Selkirk College 1989

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ADDITIONAL TRAINING:

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  • Compassionate Leadership, The Kings Fund

  • Community Development, Tamarack Institute

  • San'Yas Cultural Safety, Provincial Health Services Authority

  • Applying "What Matters to You" to Workforce Wellbeing, National Health Service

  • DEI Action Framework, NonProfitReady

  • Depth Psychology Dreamwork with Dr. Ana Mozel

  • Nature Based Mindfulness & Meditation 

  • Contemplative & Expressive Arts 

  • Grief and Bereavement 

  • Yoga Nidra

"Rachel’s compassionate leadership and mindfulness expertise were crucial in helping me find fulfillment at work again. Her deep understanding of complex systems and personal growth helped me redefine my goals and embrace new opportunities with confidence. Thanks to Rachel’s guidance, I’ve experienced significant personal growth and renewed passion in my career."


— Lisa, Senior Manager

"Rachel’s leadership coaching has been transformative for our executive team. Her expertise in psychosynthesis and leadership competencies, provided us with essential tools to lead with empathy and effectiveness. Rachel’s tailored approach addressed our unique needs, helping us build crucial leadership skills, manage complex team dynamics, and create a supportive work environment. Her influence on our leadership has been meaningful and lasting."


— Sarah, CEO
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"Rachel’s contemplative arts program has introduced me to a new level of self-exploration. Her unique approach, blending mindfulness practices with nature and art, has helped me connect with a deeper sense of self. Rachel’s facilitation of self-discovery has been both inspiring and healing, providing me with valuable tools to navigate my life."


— Jasmine, Program Participant

EMAIL

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