Kate Ibbotson – A Tidy Mind Founder
The Story of A Tidy Mind
A Tidy Mind was founded in 2015 by Kate Ibbotson – Professional Organiser / ADHD Coach / Psychotherapist in advanced clinical training. A Tidy Mind operate in 8 areas nationally in the UK.
Kate’s Story
Ultimately, I have always been motivated by helping people to improve their lives. From as far back as I remember, I wanted to listen to people talk and tell their stories.
This motivated me to start studying Psychology 20 years ago and subsequently work in the mental health sector. Following this, I worked as Life Coach with people who felt “stuck” enabling them to set and achieve goals and make positive life changes .
I took these skills into a career as a Probation Officer in 2006. For 9 years, I worked with individuals for whom life had taken the wrong path. One of the things I particularly learned was that creating a comfortable, organised home environment is a vital stabilising factor for us all.
Shelter is one of our basic human needs. Our home doesn’t have to be perfect. But our environment is a key element to a calm, motivated, engaged mind. If we have clutter and live in a disorganised state, we lose track of what is and isn’t important. This can create overwhelm, which is a huge energy drainer.
I haven’t always been tidy, Rather, there was a time when I was overwhelmed by the amount of ‘stuff’ in my life. My home was too full and my mind was too. Decluttering my life helped me gain clarity and headspace. Whilst being organised helps me think clearly and brings joy to every day things.
Establishing A Tidy Mind
Following my experience, I decided to train as a Professional Organiser and to found A Tidy Mind in 2015. The mission was to help those who are overwhelmed by clutter and disorganisation. It’s not just about physical things. Mental clutter can play a big part too. The aim is always to enhance well-being and contentment through organisation. I want clients to fall in love with their environments and look forward to their future.
With A Tidy Mind, I wanted to combine practicality with emotional support and helping people take action. So I developed a multi faceted way of working with clients. It combines expertise in time management, decluttering, storage, habits, routines and styling. In addition, we use a range of coaching and therapy techniques. This is a holistic approach aimed at transforming your life.
I am a big believer in // SIMPLICITY //
Once we start to live more simply, we lead healthier, more satisfied lives. Simple isn’t always easy to implement though and that’s where A Tidy Mind can help.
Training & Qualifications
I have degrees in both Psychology and Social Work and am a qualified Life Coach. Since 2015, I completed four training courses with APDO (Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers) and served on their Board for 2 years. Since 2020, I’ve been part of the APDO training team delivering courses for new and established Professional Organisers. I completed Hoarding Practitioner training via Hoarding Disorders UK. Plus ADHD for Professional Organisers via Free Your Space. And I have undertaken a number of other courses in neurodiversity and organising.
The most important training for Professional Organising comes from drawing from life experience. As well as working with diverse people. The biggest skill involves being able to listen connect and empathise with clients, being curious and tuning into what they need.
I practice as an ADHD Coach and Productivity Coach. I am also a Psychotherapist in advanced clinical training (Transactional Analysis). In 2019, I was drawn to qualify as Psychotherapist to help people who need more support to uncover deeper issues affecting their well-being.
Non Judgemental Approach
Everyone who is part of the team at A Tidy Mind is trained to a very high level in practical, therapeutic and coaching skills linked to Professional Organising. We all have the right personality for this work.
Some potential clients worry about their declutter coach being shocked by their homes or feel ashamed.
Please don’t.
Disorder is more common that you think, it’s just not talked about. There’s no judgment about your situation and physical work, limited space or dust is no problem! Professional decluttering and organising is a calling and a passion. And what may seem overwhelming to you is completely manageable with the right approach.
I understand what a huge deal it is for you to let someone into your space. However, you will be put you at your ease. You feel that an uncluttered, organised, inspiring and calm home is within your reach.
Thanks for reading the story of A Tidy Mind. I hope to meet or hear from you soon.
A Tidy Mind was first established in the Yorkshire area and then expanded into the West Midlands, London, Cheshire, Teesside, Cambridgeshire, Hampshire, Surrey and West Sussex. If you are in these areas, book a free consultation now or fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page. You can also ring for general enquiries.
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