"Are you ready to overcome life’s challenges and step into your full potential? Imagi
Transform your life.
Discover Your True North, Professional life coach
Guiding you towards a fulfilling life
Merry Christams
8 free sessions for Christmas
"Are you ready to overcome life’s challenges and step into your full potential? Imagine waking up every day with renewed confidence, a sense of purpose, and the tools to thrive in every area of your life. With insights and strategies rooted in experience, compassion, and proven success, I’m here to guide you on a journey to build self-esteem, unlock your unique strengths, and become the best version of yourself, I will help you uncover your unique strengths and talents, so you can achieve your goals and live your best life.
Merry Christmas
And here’s the best part: It’s completely free of charge. I’m giving back to the community that has supported me, offering eight free support sessions to those ready to take the leap.
I need you to invest in yourself
But this isn’t a quick fix—it’s a commitment. You must be willing to put in the work necessary to make real, lasting gains. I’m looking for fighters: individuals ready to face their challenges head-on and make meaningful changes in their lives.
I am with you every step of the way
If you’re ready to invest in yourself, I’m here to invest in you. Let’s build a foundation of strength, purpose, and joy together. The first step is yours to take—are you ready?"
Achieve Your Goals
Take your action today. Your future self is waiting."Can you see it !!!"
About Spence's True North
My Qualifications
My Qualifications
My Qualifications
As a certified Professional Life Coach, I have completed extensive training in areas such as psychology, goal setting, and communication. I am also a member of the international Coaching Institute and committed to ongoing professional development.
My Approach
My Qualifications
My Qualifications
I take a collaborative and solution-focused approach to coaching. By working together, we can identify your strengths, overcome obstacles, and create goals an plan of action and action steps to help you achieve those goals.
My Specialties
My Qualifications
My Specialties
I specialize in helping clients with stress management, time management, and career development. I also offer coaching for those going through major life transitions such as divorce or retirement., marriage or family matters. Communication is key and I have ways to help.
The only way to do great work is to love what you do.
Steve Jobs
About Spence's True North
My Philosophy
As a Life Coach, I believe in guiding my clients towards discovering their own inner strength, resilience and wisdom. I believe everyone has the ability to create a fulfilling and meaningful life, and I am here to help you achieve that.
Achieve Your Full Potential with Spence's True North
Career Coaching
I provide career coaching services to help you achieve your professional goals. We will work together to identify your strengths, develop your skills, and create a career plan that aligns with your passion.
Personal Growth
I offer personalized coaching to help you unlock your full potential. We will work on your self-awareness, mindset, and emotional intelligence to help you overcome limiting beliefs and achieve your dreams.
Leadership Development
I provide leadership coaching to help you become a more effective and inspiring leader. We will work on your communication skills, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking to help you achieve your leadership goals.
Relationship Coaching
I offer relationship coaching services to help you improve your relationships with others. We will work on your communication skills, empathy, and conflict resolution strategies to help you build healthy and fulfilling relationships.
Stress Management
I can help you manage stress and anxiety through coaching and mindfulness techniques. We will work together to identify your stress triggers and develop coping strategies to help you achieve a more balanced and peaceful life.
Group Coaching
Join my group coaching program and connect with other individuals who are on a journey to achieve their full potential. Together, we will support and inspire each other to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.
ICCI
Our Partners
Affiliations
ICCI, AACC, ICISF, CLC ICCA New York state of Fire Chaplains
Contact Us
Better yet, see us in person!
We love our customers, so feel free to visit during normal business hours.
Hours
Open today | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
We will be available for Christmas
Ed's VITA
This is the authentic me for your viewing
Edward J. Spence, BCMMHC, CPCLC, CCISD
6835 Knowlesville Rd, Oakfield, NY
716-560-0697 | edspence@rochester.rr.com | edspence@spencestruenorth.com
www.spencestruenorth.com
Professional Summary
Dedicated professional with over 30 years of experience in military operations, emergency response, spiritual care, and professional coaching. A trauma survivor and certified Christian counselor, I bring a unique blend of personal resilience, professional expertise, and faith-based guidance to support individuals in overcoming adversity. From leading high-pressure missions as a Marine and firefighter to providing spiritual care and life coaching, I excel in empowering others to discover healing, purpose, and resilience.
Professional Experience
Chaplain and Spiritual Care Professional
2020 – Present
- Hospice Chaplain: Provide emotional and spiritual support to terminally ill patients and their families.
- Dementia Chaplain: Offer specialized spiritual care and guidance for individuals affected by dementia and their caregivers.
- Chaplain, Oakfield Fire Department:Support first responders with crisis debriefings, pastoral care, and emotional resilience.
- Christian Counselor, The Chapel: Guide individuals in navigating trauma and personal growth through faith-based counseling.
Certified Professional Life Coach
2020 – Present
- Help clients become a better version of themselves through tailored strategies and guidance.
- Support individuals in achieving personal growth, resilience, and purpose in alignment with their goals and values.
Firefighter/Medic
City of Batavia Fire Department – Batavia, NY
1993 – 2010
- Served as Incident Commander during the 2008 Ice Storm, managing emergency response operations.
- Provided emergency medical care and fire suppression services in high-stakes environments.
- Responded to disasters, including FEMA deployments to Southern Tier floods in NY.
United States Marine Corps
1987 – 1997
- Aviation Ordnance Munitions Technician (6521): Maintained and prepared munitions for the AV-8B Harrier Jump Jet.
- Marine Security Guard: Served as Cpl of the Guard and Interior Guard with MWHS-2.
- Motor Transport Operator (3531):Conducted logistical and supply operations, ensuring mission readiness.
- Marine Corps Reserves Infantry (3/25 India Company, 0311): Conducted infantry operations and training in Buffalo, NY (1993–1995).
- 8th Tank Battalion: Supported armored operations and logistics as part of the Marine Corps Reserves (1987–1989).
United States Army National Guard
Infantry, Alpha Company 2/108th (11B)
2006 – 2009
- Conducted infantry operations for combat training and deployment readiness.
- Mentored soldiers pre- and post-deployment, fostering resilience and mission focus.
Private Investigator
1993 – 1995
- Conducted investigations and intelligence gathering for private clients, ensuring detailed and accurate reporting.
Volunteer Experience
- Veterans Advocate (2010–2020):Supported veterans through advocacy, resources, and emotional guidance.
- Warrior House of Western NY (2016–2020): Assisted veterans transitioning to civilian life through mentorship and support.
- Operation Injured Soldier (2010–2016): Helped veterans navigate recovery and reintegration.
- Western NY Stress Reduction Organization (2020 – Present): Served as a Chaplain Stress Debriefer, assisting individuals in high-stress roles.
- VA PTSD Peer Support Program (2020 – Present): Volunteered as a peer mentor to veterans overcoming PTSD challenges.
- American Red Cross: Disaster Spiritual Care and Disaster Action Team (2018 – Present).
Certifications & Credentials
- Board Certified:
- Master Mental Health Coaching (BCMMHC)
- Professional Christian Life Coaching (CPCLC)
- Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CCISD)
- Specialized Certifications:
- Acute Traumatic Stress
- Emergency Crisis Response and Intervention
- Crisis Chaplaincy
Education
- Christian Leadership Institute – Minister (2020 – Present)
- Dallas Theological Seminary College– Ongoing
- Light University – Ongoing
- Genesee Community College – 54 credits (Humanities, Business, Liberal Arts)
- Corning Community College – 60 credits (Fire Science)
- Empire State College – 30 credits (Emergency Management)
Key Skills
- Trauma Recovery & Resilience Building
- Crisis Intervention & Stress Management
- Faith-Based Counseling & Coaching
- Life Coaching for Personal Growth
- Emergency Response Leadership
- Veteran Advocacy & Peer Support
Key Attributes
A Deep Commitment to Guiding Individuals Through Trauma and Toward Spiritual Renewal
Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma, grief, and adversity. Whether through my work as a chaplain, counselor, or life coach, I approach each person with empathy, understanding, and a faith-driven commitment to their healing. By combining personal experiences as a trauma survivor with professional expertise, I provide tailored support that helps clients find strength in their struggles and rediscover a sense of purpose and hope. My work is rooted in the belief that spiritual renewal is not just a destination but a transformative journey, and I strive to walk alongside individuals every step of the way.
Proven Leadership in High-Stress Environments, From Military Readiness to Disaster Response
My professional journey has been shaped by leadership roles in challenging and high-pressure environments. As a Marine and Army National Guard Infantryman, I conducted critical training operations, mentored soldiers, and supported mission readiness efforts. In the fire service, I served as an Incident Commander during emergencies such as the 2008 Ice Storm and FEMA disaster deployments, leading teams with precision and care. These experiences have honed my ability to remain calm, focused, and decisive under pressure. My leadership is guided by a steadfast commitment to serving others, ensuring safety and success while fostering trust and collaboration.
Authentic Integration of Faith and Professional Expertise to Empower Clients and Communities
I believe that true empowerment comes from addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. My approach integrates professional expertise in crisis intervention, trauma recovery, and coaching with a deep-rooted faith perspective. This holistic framework allows me to connect authentically with clients, offering them practical tools and spiritual guidance to overcome obstacles and thrive. Whether working with veterans, first responders, or individuals seeking personal growth, I focus on fostering resilience, building self-awareness, and inspiring a renewed sense of purpose. My goal is not just to help individuals recover from their challenges but to empower them to live meaningful, fulfilling lives while positively impacting their communities.
My wife of 18 years and my soulmate, especially after everything we went through with the military.