Elizabeth Pedersen
Beth Pedersen is a coach and practising orthopaedic surgeon. In her career as an Orthopaedic surgeon she is a systems thinker; she understands the need for systematic processes in surgery and uses these same skills as a coach. She brings an ability to see the big picture and to make connections that others may not immediately see; this makes her a great clinician and an excellent coach.
Her background in surgery, teaching and mentoring have evolved to include a thriving coaching practice. Beth has learned the delicate balance between work and family life through raising a family while managing a busy sub-specialty career and after dealing with some adversity within her family, she knows that you can’t do it all. But, she also realizes that all adversity and challenges can be overcome if one has the tools in place to systematically tackle each problem. Instead of looking at adversity as a barrier, she teaches you to work your way through the various challenges and to grow through the process.
Her training as a surgeon has given her the necessary calmness to perform intricate procedures. This calmness also has made Beth a good listener who is non judgmental and works with her coaching clients on a one to one basis using the tools she has honed with her coaching certifications.
Beth studied coaching at Royal Roads University where she completed her ICF certification (ACC). She has deepened her understanding of emotional intelligence through the IQ certification. LEADS certification has made Beth a better leader as well as a good trainer of future and current medical leaders. She has an interest in the dynamics of conversations particularly around evaluation, feedback, conflict and challenging or sensitive topics. In addition to her work with physicians currently in leadership roles, she works with medical students to guide their career choices and also works with medical professionals who are nearing the end of their careers to coach them through the transition to retirement.
She recognizes the need for medical leaders to navigate their way through limited resources, giving optimum patient care while also having a good work/life balance. Many physicians do not have leadership training when they rise to a position of leadership. It is Beth’s job to prepare young physicians as well as seasoned professionals to take the reins and make the position their own. Coaching can prepare the physician leaders to hit the ground running when asked to take on a leadership role. Finally, Beth helps to identify burnout and gives her clients the tools they need to recognize the symptoms and the coping skills to protect their own wellness. She meets regularly with her own coach and will tell you from experience that coaching works!