Today we’d like to introduce you to Gretchen Pound.
Hi Gretchen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Born in Buffalo, New York in 1969 and raised in a blue-collar community, I was a curious and energetic child with undiagnosed ADHD. School was a challenge—I was always moving, always thinking—but that same restless energy became my superpower. I started my career as a court reporter, but a single psychology textbook changed my life. I read it cover to cover, fell in love with the field, and eventually earned my graduate degree from the California School of Professional Psychology.
In 1999, I moved to San Diego on my own, not knowing a soul. I started True Nature Healing Center, combining psychotherapy with yoga and retreats to help people heal through mind-body connection. Later, I founded Healthier Life Therapy, building a group practice with a team of dedicated therapists. After COVID, I pivoted and went solo again—then an opportunity came from the Navy to bring mind-body approaches to their Pain Clinic, where I now help military patients manage chronic pain.
A few years ago, I became a Clini-Coach and launched Healthier Life Coaching, focusing on ADHD, autism, and neurodiversity. I support individuals and organizations in creating more inclusive relationships, workplaces, and lives.
When I’m not working, I’m outside—rock climbing, snowboarding, surfing, paddleboarding, hiking, biking, dancing with my girlfriends, or traveling with my two adventurous boys. We love exploring the coast in our RV, camping by the sea, and breathing in the healing air of nature. I also volunteer with a Bichon rescue and adopted one special dog, Cody, who’s now part of our family.
Movement keeps me grounded. Nature resets my nervous system. And through all of it, I stay devoted to helping people heal, grow, and live fully—just like I’ve learned to do.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all. Especially in childhood, the road was bumpy, confusing, and often lonely. I had so much energy and curiosity—more than most adults knew what to do with. I was constantly moving, talking, asking questions, getting distracted. Back then, ADHD wasn’t something that was widely understood or diagnosed, especially in girls. Instead of support, I was often met with discipline or frustration.
I struggled to sit still in school, to focus, to follow the rules that didn’t seem to make sense to my fast, creative brain. I knew I was different, but I didn’t have the language to explain how or why. That lack of understanding made it hard socially. I often felt like I was too much—too loud, too curious, too intense. I could feel people pulling away, and it left me feeling isolated, even within my own family.
It wasn’t until much later, when I discovered psychology and learned about neurodiversity, that everything started to make sense. Understanding my ADHD has been a key part of healing, not just for myself but also for the people I work with. I now see my energy and intensity not as flaws, but as gifts—when they’re channeled with care, they can create, inspire, and transform.
The journey hasn’t been smooth, but the bumps have shaped me. They’ve taught me compassion, resilience, and the power of embracing our differences.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Healthier Life Coaching is a heart-centered practice designed to support individuals who think, feel, and experience the world differently. I specialize in working with people who are neurodivergent—those with ADHD, autism, sensory sensitivity, or simply those who’ve always felt a little “outside the box.” My mission is to help clients embrace all parts of themselves with love, compassion, and curiosity. I guide people in developing deeper relationships with their own bodies, with others, and with the natural world around them. What sets me apart is my ability to truly listen—not just to words, but to the story behind them. Seeing people for who they are and accepting them fully is my superpower. I bring a warm, nonjudgmental presence to every session, whether we’re working through life transitions, building executive functioning skills, or exploring how the nervous system and emotions are connected.
Healthier Life Coaching blends science and soul—I integrate somatic awareness, mindfulness, yoga, and meditation with practical coaching tools to help people feel more connected, grounded, and empowered in their lives. I’m known for my deep compassion, endless curiosity, and strong work ethic. I genuinely care—not just about my clients, but about the Earth, animals, and the collective well-being of our world. I’m most proud that my brand offers more than just services—it offers safety, presence, and true connection. Whether someone is navigating a diagnosis, a life change, or simply trying to understand themselves better, I’m here to walk with them, without judgment, every step of the way.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I believe the next decade will bring a powerful shift in how we understand and support neurodivergent individuals—not just in mental health, but across workplaces, schools, healthcare, and relationships. We’re moving away from trying to “fix” people and toward honoring the brilliance of different minds. My hope—and mission—is to be part of that change by helping others see neurodivergence as a strength, not a flaw.
I envision traveling the world, educating businesses, professionals, teachers, and anyone willing to listen about the value of neurodivergent individuals. With just a little more compassion, curiosity, and understanding, we can create spaces where everyone is seen, respected, and empowered to contribute in their own way. I see a growing need for connection—especially among neurodivergent couples and coworkers—where communication, nervous system regulation, and authenticity are key.
Coaching is evolving into something deeper and more relational. It’s not just about productivity; it’s about purpose, connection, and wholeness. I believe the future belongs to those who make room for difference—and I’m proud to be helping lead that conversation.
Pricing:
- Couple’s Session $350 90 minutes
- Individual Sessions $250 60 minutes
- Group Sessions: $175 90 minutes
- Retreats depend on location
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.healthierlifecoaching.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr._gretchen
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoachGretchenPound
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-pound-ph-d-7220baa
