About Me

Jenn Barfield – Career Development Practitioner RPCDP

Welcome to my Career Development World, where being a gnome is more than just a title – it’s a way of life! As a qualified registered professional Career Development Practitioner, I bring a unique and holistic approach to helping individuals navigate their career paths, rooted in the principles of Hope Action Theory and action-oriented hope.

Drawing on my extensive experience and qualifications as a member of the, Career Development Association of Australia, the Australian Centre for Career Education and listed on the professional register with the Career Industry Council of Australia (CICA), I combine evidence-based career theories with creative engagement strategies. Think of me as your guide, using whole-brain decision making, active engagement and mindfulness techniques to develop life-long career management skills, while instilling a sense of action-oriented hope.

I’m often described as quirky, bubbly, and always ready to laugh, but don’t be fooled by my cheerful demeanor – I’m serious when it comes to helping you achieve your career goals. My kind, curious, and compassionate nature allows me to empathize with your journey, while my determination ensures we stay focused on finding the best path forward.

Before embarking on my career as a Career Development Practitioner, I spent over 20 years in the teaching profession, spanning across Australia, the United Kingdom, and Germany. This diverse background gives me a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges you might face in your career. I’ve personally experienced career pivots, redundancy, and the challenges of being the sole income provider without a secure income. These experiences have shaped me into the practitioner I am today, with a deep appreciation for the unique hurdles you may be facing.

My true passion lies in building meaningful professional relationships with individuals like you. I believe that through these connections, we can empower you to navigate successful career transitions, regardless of your stage in life. I specialise in supporting mid-career individuals considering career changes, retirement, return to work after career breaks, as well as military personnel and families transitioning from military to civilian life. Through the lens of Hope Action Theory, I help you cultivate action-oriented hope and guide you towards a brighter and more fulfilling future.

Having lived and worked in multiple countries, including Germany with a British Forces contingent, I understand the complexities of relocation and the struggles associated with transitioning back to civilian life. These experiences have fueled my drive to support individuals like you, who may be searching for a new sense of identity and purpose.

Through my role as an experienced Career Development Practitioner, I offer holistic mindfulness and well-being career exploration. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery, leveraging the power of action-oriented hope. Whether you’re considering career progression, lifelong learning, shifting roles within a company, military transitions, military spouses, facing redundancy, or returning to work after a career break, I am here to guide you every step of the way.

I provide one-on-one career coaching sessions, as well as group coaching, presentations, and workshops focused on career exploration and well-being. My wealth of knowledge and experiences from living and working in different countries and industries allows me to connect with your unique situation and deliver tailored career coaching that resonates with you.

So, if you’re feeling lost in your career, seeking a change, or facing any other career-related challenges, join me on this transformative journey. Together, we’ll embrace the power of action-oriented hope, as guided by the principles of Hope Action Theory, and unleash your full potential. Let’s embrace the gnome mindset and make your career dreams come true!

Qualifications & Memberships:

🔸 Registered Professional Career Development Practitioner (RPCDP), Career Industry Council of Australia

🔸 Graduate Certificate in Career Development Practices
Career Education Association of Victoria

🔸 Advanced: Certification in Hope-Action Theory Practitioner (CHATP)
Doubleknot Works

🔸 Professional Member, Career Development Association of Australia (CDAA), (PCDAA)

🔸 Accredited Standard Mental Health First Aider
Mental Health First Aid Australia