About Me - Dr Sandra Spilg

I'm a GP-turned-coach with over three decades of experience in General Practice, working both in the UK and Aotearoa, New Zealand.
I first qualified as a doctor in Glasgow, Scotland, back in 1988 and as a GP in 1992. Since then, I've worked in many GP roles, including practice owner of three different practices (one of which was here in NZ), salaried GP, contractor, and locum (including a year as a rural locum travelling around this country). Most recently, I've also provided telehealth support to GP practices across the country.
Back in Scotland, I was involved in undergraduate and postgraduate medical education, as well as supporting younger doctors in their training years - something that has always been close to my heart.
During my career, I've witnessed massive changes in general practice— and not all of them for the better. I know from personal experience how isolating and overwhelming the job can be. I often struggled to find the right kind of support myself. Now, as system pressures intensify and burnout becomes more common, I see GPs and other doctors facing stresses that didn't exist before.
I have learned, often the hard way, how doctors seem conditioned to put everyone else's well-being first. It is almost as if it is part of the job description. However, the truth is that we cannot continue to do our jobs well and be fully present in our own lives if we are running on empty.
That's what drew me to coaching. I want to offer the kind of support I wish I'd had access to.

How I Work
I offer a flexible blend of Coaching, Mentoring, and Professional Supervision. This is shaped by my own experiences as a GP.
Whether you're grappling with uncertainty, career decisions, emotional overload, feeling overwhelmed or stressed, or facing some of the other challenges of being a doctor, my coaching offers you the opportunity for honest conversations with someone who understands your world.
Together, we'll work with whatever you choose to bring to our sessions. Coaching is about your goals and the things that matter to you. It will be a confidential, safe space to think more clearly and feel understood.
I welcome doctors who think in all sorts of ways. However your mind works, and in whatever ways you like to explore ideas, together we will tailor your coaching to your needs.

Outside of Work
I love spending time with my family, who are the most important thing to me. Beach walks in NZ are my ideal combination of exercise and therapy: good for the body and even better for the mind. I have always loved making things; it keeps my hands busy and my mind calm. To feed my creative side, I'm currently working on my knitting and sewing skills.