Kenden Alfond

Tell us about yourself:

I’m a Leadership Coach, Psychotherapist, and Published Author with over two decades of international coaching experience. I specialize in supporting global corporations and nonprofits to enhance leadership capabilities, build cohesive teams, and foster meaningful organizational growth.

I hold a BA from Brown University, an MA in Counseling Psychology, and a Graduate Certificate in Philanthropic Studies from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropic Studies. I’m certified in Leadership Coaching, Integrative Enneagram Assessment, the Leadership Circle Profile™, and Financial Psychology and Behavior. My approach integrates trauma-informed coaching, Enneagram assessments for individuals and teams, and 360° leadership assessments. I love working at the intersection of human development and organizational transformation.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with United Nations agencies, multinational corporations, and philanthropic organizations as a Leadership Consultant. My work is always tailored to the cultural and professional context of each client. As a psychotherapist, I support individuals across the globe with challenges related to trauma, stress, and financial well-being.

I’ve also authored six books and was honored to receive the Natan Notable Book Award in 2023. Though I’m based in Paris, France, I work remotely with clients around the world.

What might people not know about you right away?

I’ve lived and worked in six countries—India, Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Switzerland, Cambodia, and France—which has deeply shaped my perspective and my work.

What’s your approach and philosophy around coaching/work?

My approach to coaching focuses on both insight and behavioral evolution. I believe personal and professional growth is most effective when individuals are supported within a collaborative environment where they feel both challenged and encouraged. I integrate adult learning principles, recognizing that adults bring a wealth of experience and are motivated by practical, hands-on application. This includes fostering self-directed learning, emphasizing relevance and problem-solving, and developing goal-oriented strategies. I believe that the best coaching moves beyond generic ideas and solutions, focusing instead on aligning with an individual’s personality, competencies, and strengths.

What are your credentials for this work?

Education:

• MA in Counseling Psychology
  Naropa University, 2005

• BA in Literature
  Brown University, 1999

Certifications:

• Certified Coach
  Coaching Training Institute

• Accredited Integrative Enneagram Practitioner (Individuals & Teams)

• Somatic Experience Trauma Training

• Human Resources Certificate
  Cornell University

• Graduate Certificate in Philanthropic Studies
  Lilly Family School of Philanthropic Studies

• Certified Financial Behavior Specialist®
  Graduate Certificate in Financial Psychology and Behavior, Creighton University’s Heider College of Business

• Leadership Circle Profile™
  360° Leadership Assessment

What are you learning right now?

I’m always learning. As a coach and psychotherapist, much of my work involves deep focus and active listening during sessions, which are often conducted while seated. To balance this, I gravitate toward physical learning and activities that energize me and engage a different part of myself. Each week, I dedicate time to hands-on experiences, including fitness, and this year, I’ve enrolled in an in-person sewing class here in Paris. 

Alongside these pursuits, my current reading focuses on research for a historical novel series I’m writing, combining my passion for writing with a deep dive into history.

Personally, what makes you proud?

I'm proud of the strong and positive relationships I’ve built, particularly my marriage and the experience of being a mother. These connections bring me immense joy and fulfillment. I’m also proud of my commitment to self-care and maintaining my physical health. Practicing discipline in this area not only helps me stay energized and focused but also enables me to show up fully for my family, work, and passions.

And professionally?

I am proud of my commitment to my work over the past 20 years, particularly as I moved between different countries, worked on various international projects, and simultaneously built up my competencies as a coach and psychotherapist. Establishing consistency in my career while adapting to new environments and challenges wasn’t always easy, but I stayed focused on my goal of helping others and expanding my skills. I’m especially proud of the relationships I’ve built with clients and teams and the effort I put into showing up for them, no matter the circumstances. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see clients and teams make lasting progress and know that my support has contributed to their growth.