Meet LaVonne Dorsey
Executive Coach, Leadership Development Consultant, and Song-and-Dance Enthusiast
What sparked your passion for coaching and leadership development?
My journey began with a deep desire to help people grow and thrive, both personally and professionally. As a Fortune 500 strategist and consultant, I witnessed the transformative impact of equitable and inclusive leadership initiatives. Combining that with my M.A. in Clinical Psychology and my experience as a practicing therapist, I realized I could bring a truly unique perspective to coaching. My passion lies in helping individuals, teams, and organizations unlock their potential and create meaningful change.
What makes your coaching approach unique?
My philosophy revolves around key principles like holistic growth, collaboration, and practical application. I focus on building trust, tailoring my approach to each client, and holding them accountable for their goals. My dual expertise in psychology and leadership development allows me to see the whole person while addressing personal and organizational challenges. Whether I’m coaching an executive or guiding a team, my goal is to foster growth that has a lasting impact.
What do you bring to the table?
Education:
M.A. in Clinical Psychology (Saybrook University).
B.A. in Psychology and Organizational Development (University of Washington).
Certifications:
Certified Psychological Safety Assessments & Facilitator
Certified Enneagram Practitioner (Integrative Enneagram).
Certified Conscious Business Coach (Conscious Business Academy).
Certified Coach and Mentor (Coach Training Alliance, ICF).
Diversity Across Class, Race, Gender, and Nationality Certification (NTL Institute for Applied Behavioral Science).
Professional Experience:
30+ years in corporate, academic, and practical settings.
Adjunct professor in Saybrook University’s Master’s in Clinical Psychology program.
Designed and implemented company-wide leadership strategies that drove organizational transformation.
Coached business owners and entrepreneurs to pivot, rebrand, and achieve ambitious career goals.
What are you currently exploring?
I’m inspired by Malcolm Gladwell’s latest book, Revenge of the Tipping Point, and his podcast Revisionist History, which offer fresh perspectives on social engineering and transformative change. My mentor, Dr. Marshall Kauffman, also greatly influences my approach, helping me integrate continuous learning into my practice.
What are you most proud of?
Professionally, I’m proud of developing trusting relationships with my clients and helping them achieve growth and success. From individuals to entire organizations, it’s incredibly fulfilling to witness their progress and transformation. Personally, I love hosting dinner parties and social events—it brings me joy to create beautiful experiences that bring people together over amazing food and décor.
What’s life like outside of work?
Music has always been a part of my life—I can’t resist breaking out into song and dance when I hear a tune I know! I also find fulfillment in creating spaces for connection, whether through dinner parties or casual gatherings with friends and family.
What’s your leadership philosophy?
Leadership is about fostering growth—your own, your team’s, and your organization’s. It’s not just about achieving goals but doing so in a way that aligns with your values and creates a positive impact on others. I believe in meeting people where they are and empowering them to step confidently into their potential.
What’s been a standout moment in your career?
Designing and implementing leadership development strategies that transform organizations is always rewarding, but my proudest moments come from seeing individuals grow. When clients achieve their personal and professional goals, I know I’ve done my job well.
DID YOU KNOW?
When I hear any song on the radio I almost always know the words and break out into song and dance!