I met David at an alumni event hosted by my alma mater for graduates seeking career support and guidance. I had been in a career rut for about four years and attended the event hoping to return to the drawing board and find a new direction. During his speech, David shared how he has helped hundreds of individuals throughout the decades navigate their career journeys. I was deeply moved by his willingness to help other, especially my fellow university alumni. After the event, I reached out to David, and we began meeting weekly to discuss my goals and aspirations. At the time, I was torn between pursuing public policy or nonprofit work, but I had always enjoyed my nonprofit experience before the pandemic. David connected me with the philanthropy officer of a major nonprofit in my area, who offered valuable advice on how to begin a nonprofit career. He encouraged me to study independently and reach out for volunteer opportunities within his organization. Eventually, I interviewed with the nonprofit and am now in the process of starting my journey with them. Because of the relationships David has built over the years, he has created a strong community of professionals who are eager to support and guide others like me. This network of generosity and mentorship reflects his lasting impact on those he's helped. Without David, I would not have been able to make these meaningful connections or gain the clarity I needed. He reminded me that it's okay to start over, to go back to the drawing board, and to ask for help when you need it. People like David are truly one in a million and his dedication to helping others, including myself, is incredibly valuable in today's world. read more

David has been helping me for the past 4 years in my work as director of Environteers.org. He has provided very beneficial guidance and encouragement in the expansion and evolution of Environteers. He combines extensive experience and empowering positive input with light heart rapport. Plus, he is very effective at networking, connecting me with several crucial collaborators. read more

David is a whole world of support in the career coach field. He helped me immensely during my personal transition by helping me define my personal goals, career needs that aligned with my skills sets, and helping me focus in on the fields most in tune with who I am as a person. He utilizes a variety of methods, including using the wide array of referrals he's made over his many years in the field, and using tools like the Holland code career test. Most of all, he helps you believe in yourself. It was incredible to have him hear me out and offer advice that helped me move on to a rewarding new career. read more

A tough case: I was a mom of 2 children in my early 50s, I hadn't worked a 'real job' in years, AND I was going through a separation with a high conflict ex. I am not in tech, but needed a tech salary job ASAP in order to get through (and out) of my current and highly stressful situation. I was clear that David was excited and confident to take on the challenge. He's an incredible listener, organized, and comes up with creative solutions, even for difficult cases. He uses multiple evaluation methods, and you can tell he loves what he does. The greatest tool IMO that David has through his many years in the biz, is his incredibly networked field of contacts. He offered me valuable contacts and always said, "Tell them I sent you". I don't know another career coach that can offer this in such a wide array of positions and industries. I have hired him for two separate job searches and would do so again. read more

David Thiermann has helped me to transform my life in so many ways. I certainly recommend to anyone seeking to clarify their life goals, and to manifest them, that they contact David and work with him for at least a year. Life changes take time and significant personal effort and investment. I had spent a lot of time working with therapists and a couple of coaches prior to meeting David, but what I worked on with David is not therapy, and even though it bears some resemblance to life coaching, I wouldn't call it that either. Career coaching is probably the closest analogy, but it's more than that. I'd call it a Big Reality Check. David is a balanced and authentic human being who I have found to be genuinely committed to my personal success, and makes personal efforts to help me clarify my goals for myself. He asks pertinent questions, nudges me to answer my own questions, and genuinely cares about the answers, engendering a process of careful self-observation, evaluation and action. He offers insights of his own and sometimes personal connections to others who can augment the understandings and insights. (It's not what you know, but who you know, you know?!) Some of my goals were clear to me at the beginning of our time working together, and other goals and ambitions were not. Through a process of talking casually, as well as a gentle analytic process, I was astonished to find myself having achieved several of the big goals that had been eluding me, within a year of our regular meetings. This process also revealed ideas and ambitions I was only vaguely aware of or not aware of at all. One of the big goals took me away from the local vicinity of our meetings, and though unfortunate that we couldn't meet in person after that, we continued to work together remotely for three years, as of this writing. On reflection, the years we've worked together have been some of the biggest revelatory and transformational processes of my entire adult life. This is simple to explain. The regular effort and commitment to meeting and discussion of my ideas, principles, and life experiences with the help of David's considerable insight and methods, has an effect on my decisions and every day efforts, which tend to grow and wake up the person I understand myself to be, and wish to become. To anyone who is serious about their career, or is in-between things, or just basically stuck, and has the wish to unstick themselves, I can't recommend David enough. His work will support your work, and it's well worth the effort. read more

I came to David with a few imperatives. For one thing, COVID had hit me hard -- it had meant protracted underemployment and a move between cities -- but since it gave me ample time to think about my career as it had taken shape thus far, it was in the end what it took to finally spur my resolve to make a certain career shift I'd been staring at, but intimidated by, for the past five years or so. David was the right person at the right time to help me with this. For most of my adult life, I've worked as a photography and digital imaging specialist in the Bay Area arts scene. I had found this very rewarding, but at the same time I had come to know I was reaching a ceiling with what it could provide for me. I had long hoped that my skillset honed over this time would be equally applicable to more commercial work settings (advertising, marcom, ecommerce, etc.), but finding where to begin the leap was daunting. When speaking with David it is clear right away he has a vast wealth of experience and has come to a vocation and passion where he can apply the wisdom he's gained over the years in support of his clients; he could be doing any number of other things but clearly helps people with their careers because he loves to. He brings a great deal of empathy, and I found he got to know me with astonishing speed. David thinks way outside the box in helping you refine your focus and goals. At the same, it's clear he knows the tried and true methods (the term evidence-based comes to mind). In working together over a few months he instilled a lot of confidence in me that I could meet all these goals I had set for myself, and that I need not lower my sights. He is someone you'll be glad to have on your side, and addition to the guidance he provides he is simply wonderful as a cheerleader. The ideal outcome I had in mind was that I wanted to work in media production in tech. Our process culminated in me getting a call from Apple (the best employer I could think of for myself) for a very lucrative contract role. I've found I've excelled in this, and, in part because I now have wonderful people to work for and with, people who are interested in shepherding my career forward, I have gained every confidence there's a bright future for me on this new track, and can't thank David enough for being instrumental in where I've now found myself. read more

When I first came to David in the early 90s, I was fresh from living abroad, and had just started a family. I was financially desperate, trying to put together a career as a musician, and David shared his genius with me, helping me promote and monetize my activities. From the start, David was unique. I was initially suspicious of how calm and relaxed he was, and how he demonstrated that he genuinely cared about me. I had just met him, after all. 20 years later, I now know why he was so calm and confident; he knew that I would succeed, and that everything would be okay. On top of that, he has shown me in many ways over the years that he does really care about his clients. David will be the first one to tell you that he loves you, and he means it. He really is a guru. His guidance and techniques are things that I have recycled and fallen back on time after time, as my career has morphed in a long trajectory from musician to leader. Despite my disbelief, he predicted and upheld a vision for my future long before I could see it coming, calmly but steadfastly reminding me of my destiny like a wise fool. I thought he was nuts, but now I see how wise he really is. David is a prince in his field. Check him out. You won't be disappointed. read more

it's been a couple-three decades since David was my trusted career counselor, yet today I yet again referred a new college graduate to him! Thats because David steered me exactly right all those years ago. When he met me he assessed my strengths and weaknesses to perfection....actually told me I was needing to establish my own private practice, an idea that had never occurred to me. he also, by the way, told me I was heading towards getting fired, which astonished me. well, both predictions came true! He'd nailed it. I got fire, went through several more miserable experiences as a benefited employee until, 10 years later, I established a successful practice which was truly my dream job. I retired 3 years ago after 20 years with a good IRA and social security income as well as several life long friends who were colleagues at the hospital where I contracted. What this all boils down to is I'm astonished, in retrospect, at how succinctly David went about guiding me into the perfect career! he knew more than I did about myself! What a treasure he is, I'm proud to be able to give this enthusiastic recommendation for the best of all possible career coaches in the universe! read more

I was expecting to say hello, wish David well, and offer encouragement.  After all, I've outgrown the need for his services...right? Instead, David surprised me again with personal, effective helpfulness.  I'll offer my experience since our initial 2013 meeting while lifting a few phrases from his website. - "[David] sees the directions and signs that you can most fruitfully follow" - David generously shares his contacts with an artful, match-making intuition.  I knew a gifted Chinese acupuncturist and herbal medicine practitioner in Santa Cruz whose practice was characterized by modern day miracles of healing.  She told me that a new patient's diagnosis would often reveal itself within 5 minutes.  David's practice is much the same. - "The professional career consultant helps clients dissatisfied with their careers see through their personal and professional inhibitions - and teaches them to follow their dreams." - A wise philosopher once said, "You gotta put down the duckie if you wanna play the saxophone".  With David, I can have my duckie and play the saxophone. Usually, change is uncomfortable and learning a new dance can be awkward.  Like a good choreographer, David is gentle and direct as needed, dancing easily with his clients.  New actions become exciting and so enjoyable that I forget about comfort and just have fun. - "They need a glimpse of their true potential." - After only one hour, I was beyond the edge of my seat, walking in the shoes of my own potential with red hot contacts in my hands and step by step action items at my feet. - "There are many people out there who need to clarify and diversify their career goals" - A successful movie producer began each day by calling his most intimidating contact.  It's about taking actions against 'personal and professional inhibitions'.  Even CEO's and celebrities have room to grow, bridges to build.  It takes perspective from another person, and preferably an expert guide such as David. It's my pleasure to write this review, highly recommend David, and continue our collaboration. read more

I came to David in 2015 for a series of sessions to uncover unseen potential career and education plans after two decades in a career which was ending. It was intimidating to face such difficult choices during these years of my life, being in my mid fifties. David was very reassuring that a process was possible to help navigate the stormy waters of indecision. With David's patient guidance, I developed a plan which I have executed and am now succeeding at. Without this guidance, I believe I may very well have floundered. Thank you very, very much David! read more

I worked with David for several months years ago and his guidance set me on a pathway to finding success and happiness in work. When I finished the work with David, I thought "We should do this work with high school students - it would save them so much time!" David told me that Americans change careers every 6-7 years or so and, true to form, I am on my 5th and hopefully last career ironically, but happily, providing career counseling and vocational rehabilitation to youth. David's assessments, advice and training helped me weather six layoff cycles in three different companies and navigate a complete retooling including a late-life stint in graduate school. David asked me if there was any way I could start my own company because nothing would give me more satisfaction. I can and may start a private practice one day, but for now, I am indeed, the master of my own ship. read more

Glad you were born. Your parents would be proud of you. A better world with you in it. Aloha nui loa Cuz read more

Changing your career can be among the most stressful experiences in life. Whether it's a welcome change and you're exploring your life's possibilities, or you need a calm, clear, and knowledgeable mind to help you navigate the stress that comes with this kind of change, you will never be in better company than David Thiermann. I highly recommend you avail yourself of his counseling services. I know of no one who has regretted doing so. Come to his weekly "Exploring Career Possibilities" Meetup and see for yourself! read more

I had the pleasure of meeting David when I was in my role as ED at Save Our Shores in Santa Cruz and we have stayed in touch for 15 years. I started my own consulting work 5 years ago and David has been coaching me for the past year as I was looking to transition to back to full-time work. He meet with me every couple of weeks to check in on my current work, offering great advice on how I could be more effective. Because he has such a wealth of experience and because he gets to know his clients very deeply, he offered me an insightful perspective on how to improve my work which led to an improvement in overall satisfaction, success and happiness. David helped me to land my dream job working for a growing, global sustainability consulting firm. His constant support over the past year encouraged me to keep up with the job search even when it was difficult and the end result was something better than I could have imagined. He has such a positive attitude that anything is possible! And he is right. David is the ultimate professional and is a wonderful friend. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking to further their career. Anyone working with him will get the pleasure of bringing in a great person to their life. Thank you David! read more

David is a kind, genuine, highly intelligent man. He is self-taught and has organized what he has learned very masterfully. I met with him for a school project, as I am working towards a Masters in Counseling Psychology. He took me under his wing and shared his training with me to help me succeed as a therapist! I am forever grateful to him. He has developed his own career counseling theory that works wonders. If you need help deciding a career, or even if you have one nailed down, you can benefit from working with David. He will help you learn to successfully market yourself. Also, he is a super interesting person with a very unique backstory! read more

After every meeting with David, I feel extremely clear-headed, focused, and determined. He is so great at helping you to narrow your career path, or to help you traverse the one you've chosen. He has helped so many different types of people that he knows an amazing amount about almost any career path imaginable! Plus, he has so many connections in Santa Cruz it's ridiculous. When I found him I was in a job that was just okay, and with his help I've found a new job that I absolutely love!!! I recommend you at least call him for the free consultation. read more

David is a good counselor- asking effective questions, making insightful observations and open to sharing his own life experiences. A very good person to talk with about your career and related concerns. read more

For over 20 years, I have touched base with David on various career and business issues. I always appreciate David's insight and advice on possible business paths and additions. Today, we discussed the value of various social media. He educated me on the high value of Yelp in finding and promoting businesses and their services. My business - Pathways to Growth - provides clients with strategic sales and marketing information, which can grow their business and income. In over a decade, I have worked with over 100 small local businesses - sometimes giving a review on Yelp. Now, with David's advice - I will encourage Yelp reviews all the time. Thanks David - you are a real Master Guru ! read more

David Thiermann is an amazing career and life counselor and much beyond that. I would call him a "warm professional" as besides professional skills and experience he possesses best human qualities such as empathy, compassion, understanding and generosity. I believe warm professionals are the hope for humanity and a leading force of the planetary evolution. While having consultations with David I always feel safe, comfortable and supported. Moreover he has a unique ability to inspire people on the path of their heart and true passion. Whatever you love to do and whatever you want to be David will find the way to support you and guide you through doubts, hesitation and uncertainty. He will help you to make your path clear and real. He will help you to live your dream. read more

Working with David for Career Counseling has been very helpful to me. While there were steps of the process that I fought, going through it allowed me to hear David's many seeds of pertinent wisdom which were sprinkled through our conversations, and allowed him to get to know me better. David was perceptive about not only what I said, but also the things I expressed between the lines, which has allowed me to make decisions based on what is true, not what I think should be true. And he has lots of smart business advice, not to mention all sorts of potential networking. read more