The centre is excited to highlight the transformative power of its confidence-building and personal development courses. Some of the many courses, soon to be available online, have already played a life-changing role for many — none more so than the Centre’s own CEO, Siân Thomas.
Siân’s journey with the Chrysalis Centre began as a service user. She first accessed support through the Centre’s confidence course, which helped her rebuild self-belief, develop new skills, and envision a brighter future. That experience laid the foundation for her remarkable progression—from participant to leader—demonstrating the profound impact these courses can have on personal and professional growth.
Now, as CEO, Siân is passionate about ensuring that other women have the same opportunities she did. “When I first came to Chrysalis, I never imagined I would be where I am today. The confidence course helped me take control of my future, and I want other women to see that they, too, can achieve their goals,” she shares.
With the upcoming launch of the Centre’s online courses, more women will have access to this empowering support, no matter where they are. Whether looking to boost confidence, develop leadership skills, or work towards new career opportunities, these courses provide a vital stepping stone to success.
Siân first came to Chrysalis in August 2004, when it was then known as Women Supporting Women. As an unpaid carer, the stress of her role led to a breakdown, and she was referred to the charity to attend a Confidence and Assertion course. It was during this time that she discovered a deep connection with the organisation and a desire to be part of its work. By February 2005, Siân had become a volunteer and was working as an admin and finance assistant, dedicating four days a week to the charity for four years before securing a paid role in 2009.
Her commitment and passion saw her progress within the organisation, becoming Assistant Manager in 2013, Manager in 2018, and ultimately taking on the role of CEO in 2021. “I am not a career CEO,” Siân reflects. “I am in this position because of my dedication to and belief in Chrysalis. The charity played a fundamental part in my recovery and resilience, and I am honoured to now lead it.”
Siân’s lived experience of depression, anxiety, and domestic abuse has shaped her leadership and deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by the women Chrysalis supports. Her journey has been one of continuous learning, both professionally and personally.
In March 2023, she was diagnosed as autistic, a revelation that brought clarity and self-acceptance. “All my life, I believed I needed fixing,” she shares. “When I discovered I am autistic, I finally understood that there was nothing wrong with me. I don’t need fixing – I need support and adjustments, but fundamentally, I am whole.”
Siân has since become an advocate for greater understanding of autism in women and girls, using her platform to educate and support others. Her professional role encompasses strategic planning, finance, governance, income generation, policies and procedures, and overseeing the administration of Chrysalis. With a BA Honours degree in Information Management and numerous qualifications in counselling, team leading, and safeguarding, her expertise continues to drive the charity forward.
As she celebrates her 20-year anniversary with Chrysalis, Siân remains deeply committed to its mission. “Working in mental health and domestic abuse support means that as the charity has grown, so have I. I hope to continue using my experiences to inspire others, and as a survivor myself, I am proud to contribute both personally and professionally to the growth of Chrysalis.”
Alongside the charity’s work, Better Life Therapies, offers a number of private services and online courses that are available to everyone at a subsidised cost. These initiatives help support the work of Chrysalis and contribute to keeping the charity open for those who need it most.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges or the effects of past or current domestic abuse, Chrysalis is here to help. Contact us at info@chrysaliscentre.org for support and guidance.
For media inquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact: info@chrysaliscentre.org