I’m Doreen Downing, PhD, Psychologist, Founder of Essential Speaking, and Training Director of Speaking Circles® International with over thirty years of experience working with individuals, couples, and groups.

Earlier in my career, as I was helping others overcome their fears, I carried a hidden terror of my own. I was afraid to speak in public.

I have discovered that the key to confident speaking is being fully present and connected to my Essential Self.

After earning a degree in Sociology in the 1960’s my life path led to Malaysia as a Peace Corps volunteer. I realized that at the core of social problems were communication and relationship issues. I returned to get a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley and began my private practice in the 1980’s.

I believe my calling is to facilitate personal and professional transformation and to help people recover their vibrant inner spirit and speak without fear.

I now teach others how to dissolve stage fright forever through Private Coaching with Doreen Downing, PhD, Speaking Circles®, Fearless Speaking Workshops, and Self-Guided E-Courses. As Training Director of Speaking Circles® International, an organization dedicated to helping people speak more naturally and powerfully, I lead authentic communication seminars worldwide. I also co-lead the Speaking Circle® Facilitator Certification Program and have trained Facilitators who now practice in Canada, Europe, India, and Asia.

For more information about EssentialSpeaking with Doreen Downing, PhD.