Stories that empower.

Wisdom that heals.

Spaces that feel safe.

Free Guide: Understanding

Layered Lives

Life can be complex, but support doesn’t have to be.


Download this free guide to explore simple, compassionate

ways to understand and support layered lives , whether your

own or those you work with.

Get your free copy and start creating space for real,

sustainable support.

Gentle strategies.

Real change.

Join Shirley Appleby, trauma-informed coach, trainer, and writer for tools, gentle encouragement, and insights on living and working with layered lives.

As a trauma-informed writer, trainer, and coach, Shirley draws on lived experience, deep listening, and decades of working with people navigating layered lives to create safe, empowering spaces for growth.

Through courses, coaching and writing, Shirley helps people reconnect with their voice, their values, and their vision, so they can live, lead, and work in ways that feel true to themselves.

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Shirley's Approach

I believe clarity, compassion, and purpose are the foundations of meaningful change. Whether I’m writing, teaching, or coaching, I create spaces where people feel safe to explore, grow, and reconnect with their own strength.

Through personal stories, practical tools, and supportive guidance, I help turn complex challenges into opportunities for healing, learning, and lasting impact.

Real Support for Your Real Life.

Tools, coaching, and community for every step of the journey.

Inclusive practice is a journey, not a destination. Every small step you take helps create spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. 

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Practical courses for real life and real growth.

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Gentle guidance to help you find clarity and confidence.

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Stories and insights that inspire change

Diverse Inclusive group of people having a meeting.

Building spaces where everyone can thrive.

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Simple strategies to support your everyday life.

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A safe space to share, learn, and belong.

The Layered Life Identity: Who Am I Beyond the Labels?

Who am I beyond the labels? A soft, honest exploration of identity, layers, and the parts of us that exist beyond diagnosis, role, or expectation. ...more

Reflections for Layered Lives

September 29, 20253 min read

The Layered Life Identity: Who Am I Beyond the Labels?

Small Adjustments, Big Impact: Tools That Change Layered Lives

Sometimes the smallest supports bring the greatest relief. Practical, gentle tools that help layered lives feel lighter, safer, and more sustainable. ...more

Tools & Gentle Practices

August 27, 20252 min read

Small Adjustments, Big Impact: Tools That Change Layered Lives

You’re Not Just Tired, Chronic Fatigue

A heartfelt look at chronic fatigue, beyond tiredness, into the layered emotional and physical reality so many live with quietly ...more

Reflections for Layered Lives

August 10, 20254 min read

You’re Not Just Tired, Chronic Fatigue

Disability + Mental Health + Caring: When the Labels Don’t Fit

What happens when life doesn’t fit neat labels? A gentle reflection on disability, mental health, caring, and the layered reality behind lived experience. ...more

Reflections for Layered Lives

July 31, 20253 min read

Disability + Mental Health + Caring: When the Labels Don’t Fit

What It’s Really Like to Live a Layered Life

What it really means to navigate a layered life, the emotions, the quiet strength, and the invisible work behind carrying complexity with grace. ...more

Reflections for Layered Lives

July 22, 20254 min read

What It’s Really Like to Live a Layered Life

“Thanks to Shirley, I’ve grown in ways I never thought possible. I’ve begun to understand myself better, communicate more clearly, and find a kind of peace I’d stopped believing I could have.”

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FREE DOWNLOAD

Free Guide: Understanding Layered Lives

Life can be complex, but support doesn’t have to be.


Download this free guide to explore simple, compassionate ways to understand and support layered lives , whether your own or those you work with.

Get your free copy and start creating space for real, sustainable support.

FREE DOWNLOAD

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© 2025 Shirley Appleby Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

Stories that empower. Wisdom that heals. Spaces that feel safe.


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