Carmel Drake | Certified Coach

Navigate life with purpose, balance and confidence

Hi, I’m Carmel, a UK-raised certified Executive and Life Coach, based in Madrid, Spain since 2008.

I support busy individuals zoom out, take stock, explore and problem solve.

Whether you’re facing a big transition, evaluating new opportunities or simply need space to reflect, I give you the structure, support and challenge to make that journey not only achievable, but enjoyable.

My approach is:

action-oriented ensuring that we identify your goals and translate them into concrete steps with tangible results.
I help you connect with your inner wisdom and I encourage you to be courageous in facing fears and stepping outside your comfort zone.
I assist in building resilience and self-compassion to navigate and recover from setbacks that inevitably arise.

In our work together, you’ll find a calm, supportive space that's free from judgement where you can truly pause, take stock and grow.

I specialise in providing 1:1 support to:

individuals exploring a career transition, change of role or promotion including women returning to work after a period of extended leave.
accompanying partners on overseas postings redefining their purpose and seeking a sense of belonging; and
busy professionals seeking time to think strategically about their roles and their goals with the support and challenge of a trusted, impartial sounding board.

Why work with me?

Life is precious. We only get one chance to live it. From a young age, I learned the value of making considered choices, from deferring my place at university to work and travel overseas; to moving to Madrid to learn Spanish in my late 20s; to changing careers (twice) to live in alignment with my values.

As an Executive and Life Coach, I help busy individuals find inner peace. Together, we uncover what truly matters to you, fostering self-awareness and empowering you to navigate life's twists and turns with clarity and confidence.

If you're ready to (re)infuse your life with purpose, and you'd like some support from a trusted and impartial sounding board, then click on the button below to book a free, no-obligation, 30-minute videocall with me today.

Let this be the sign you need to understand yourself better and experience a remarkable improvement in your quality of life

Scroll down to read about past clients' experiences of working with me and for details of the personalised packages I offer.

Book your free 30-minute videocall with me

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"I thought perhaps having a Life Coach was for privileged execs with time to spare for contemplation and self-reflection. I was wrong. Working with Carmel has helped me balance babies, a big job and an MBA. She has encouraged self-growth and enabled my development, and the tools shared get me through the hardest days".

- Emer, Global Media Director, Ireland

"Carmel was able to guide me through a transitory period of my life offering real practical advice and useful exercises along the way. I was able to reflect on my choices and view them from different perspectives using her tools, which ultimately helped me come to some big decisions involving my career and relocation. She displayed warmth, empathy and a real interest in my situation and was always completely non-judgmental. I really enjoyed our sessions and would definitely recommend Carmel to anyone wanting to rethink any aspect of their life".

Lucy, Teacher, Brighton

"During my time with Carmel, she both held a supportive container and helped challenge thoughts that weren’t serving me. Her guidance was invaluable in revealing areas where I needed to cultivate greater self-compassion and offering practical strategies to integrate it into my daily life. Thanks so much for your support Carmel!"

Sara, Translator, Madrid

I had no idea what to expect when I plucked up the courage to share my concerns about where I felt I was failing in my career. Carmel supported and guided me through the thoughts and anxieties that I had unknowingly masked. Her gentle manner and non-judgmental approach, along with asking the right questions got me to a very happy confident place again. I will not hesitate to re-invest in coaching with Carmel

Deborah, School Business Manager, Yorkshire

"I thought perhaps having a Life Coach was for privileged execs with time to spare for contemplation and self-reflection. I was wrong. Working with Carmel has helped me balance babies, a big job and an MBA. She has encouraged self-growth and enabled my development, and the tools shared get me through the hardest days".

- Emer, Global Media Director, Ireland

"Carmel was able to guide me through a transitory period of my life offering real practical advice and useful exercises along the way. I was able to reflect on my choices and view them from different perspectives using her tools, which ultimately helped me come to some big decisions involving my career and relocation. She displayed warmth, empathy and a real interest in my situation and was always completely non-judgmental. I really enjoyed our sessions and would definitely recommend Carmel to anyone wanting to rethink any aspect of their life".

Lucy, Teacher, Brighton

"During my time with Carmel, she both held a supportive container and helped challenge thoughts that weren’t serving me. Her guidance was invaluable in revealing areas where I needed to cultivate greater self-compassion and offering practical strategies to integrate it into my daily life. Thanks so much for your support Carmel!"

Sara, Translator, Madrid

I had no idea what to expect when I plucked up the courage to share my concerns about where I felt I was failing in my career. Carmel supported and guided me through the thoughts and anxieties that I had unknowingly masked. Her gentle manner and non-judgmental approach, along with asking the right questions got me to a very happy confident place again. I will not hesitate to re-invest in coaching with Carmel

Deborah, School Business Manager, Yorkshire

"I thought perhaps having a Life Coach was for privileged execs with time to spare for contemplation and self-reflection. I was wrong. Working with Carmel has helped me balance babies, a big job and an MBA. She has encouraged self-growth and enabled my development, and the tools shared get me through the hardest days".

- Emer, Global Media Director, Ireland

"Carmel was able to guide me through a transitory period of my life offering real practical advice and useful exercises along the way. I was able to reflect on my choices and view them from different perspectives using her tools, which ultimately helped me come to some big decisions involving my career and relocation. She displayed warmth, empathy and a real interest in my situation and was always completely non-judgmental. I really enjoyed our sessions and would definitely recommend Carmel to anyone wanting to rethink any aspect of their life".

Lucy, Teacher, Brighton

"During my time with Carmel, she both held a supportive container and helped challenge thoughts that weren’t serving me. Her guidance was invaluable in revealing areas where I needed to cultivate greater self-compassion and offering practical strategies to integrate it into my daily life. Thanks so much for your support Carmel!"

Sara, Translator, Madrid

I had no idea what to expect when I plucked up the courage to share my concerns about where I felt I was failing in my career. Carmel supported and guided me through the thoughts and anxieties that I had unknowingly masked. Her gentle manner and non-judgmental approach, along with asking the right questions got me to a very happy confident place again. I will not hesitate to re-invest in coaching with Carmel

Deborah, School Business Manager, Yorkshire

Choose the Coaching Program that Best Serves You*

*Or let's work together to design your own 😊

Own Your Journey

At a career crossroads and unsure what’s next? Own Your Journey is designed to help you get clear, take charge and move forward with confidence and excitement.

More info

Belonging Abroad

Feeling untethered after moving to Madrid for your partner’s role? Belonging Abroad is designed to help you start building a sense of purpose and belonging in this chapter.

More info

Eastern Bluebird, Sialia sialis, male bird in flight

Focus Hub

Swamped at work with no time to think? Focus Hub gives you dedicated space to step back and think strategically with the support and challenge of an impartial sounding board.

More info

Contact me

Contact me for more information or to book a complimentary 30-minute videocall consultation.

I hold most of my coaching sessions online to accommodate a variety of locations and time zones. I also offer in-person coaching sessions in central Madrid.