About Elevation
Helping people navigate the conversations that matter most
At Elevation Occupational Psychology, we believe that understanding human behaviour is central to creating healthier, more inclusive and effective workplaces.
Our work focuses on the psychology behind workplace relationships, communication and behaviour, with a particular interest in difficult conversations.
Whether discussing health, disability, neurodiversity, wellbeing, performance, conflict or organisational change, some conversations involve uncertainty, vulnerability and emotional risk. Understanding why these conversations feel difficult, what leads people to avoid them and what makes meaningful dialogue possible is at the heart of our work.
Founded by Dr Rachel Smith, a Business Psychologist, researcher and Teaching Fellow, Elevation bridges psychological research and workplace practice to help individuals, managers and organisations better understand the human side of working life.
Through evidence-based insights, research and practical guidance, our aim is to challenge assumptions, encourage reflection and support workplaces where people feel able to communicate openly, navigate challenges and thrive.
Who am I?
Dr Rachel Smith, PhD
I'm Dr Rachel Smith, a Certified Business Psychologist, researcher, educator and someone who has always been fascinated by people, particularly why we think, feel and behave the way we do.
My route into psychology hasn't been entirely conventional. Having experienced significant personal challenges, including serious illness, I've developed a particular appreciation for resilience, empathy and the importance of understanding the experiences that shape us. These experiences have influenced not only who I am, but also how I approach my work and the questions I choose to explore.
I'm naturally curious, enjoy challenging assumptions and love finding connections between psychological theory and the realities of everyday life. Completing my PhD has only strengthened my enthusiasm for research, particularly when it can help us better understand experiences that are often overlooked or misunderstood.
Outside of work, I'm happiest exploring somewhere new, travelling, snowboarding or heading off on an adventure in the campervan with our golden retriever, Trixie. I'm a firm believer that there's more to life than work, even when you genuinely love what you do!
One Question Changed Everything
Why do some workplace conversations feel so difficult?
That question sits at the heart of my PhD research and underpins everything I do through Elevation Occupational Psychology.
Over the past three years, I have explored why people avoid difficult conversations at work, how these conversations are experienced, and the factors that influence whether someone chooses to speak up or stay silent.
What began as an academic question became something much more personal. It connected my experiences of living with cancer, navigating disability, understanding my neurodiversity, and advocating for support in the workplace.
Today, that question continues to drive my research, consultancy and teaching.
Meet Our Canine Companion and Chief Happiness Officer!
My name is Trixie
I am 6 years old and spend my days 'working' with my dog mum. I keep her company, often snoring in the background, take her on adventures to meet my doggo friends, and explore the village where we live (and work) everyday!
