Our Story
Meet the Founder
You didn't become a clinic manager or program director because you wanted to sit in meetings and navigate HR paperwork. You got here because you were exceptional at the work — and because you care deeply about the people you serve. That commitment to quality care doesn't go away when you step into a leadership role. If anything, it gets harder to honor when you're managing a team that isn't always pulling in the same direction.
I'm Cathy Abshire, founder of Sound Leadership Consulting. I work specifically with healthcare and rehabilitation managers and program directors who are good at their jobs and struggling with the people side of leadership — difficult staff situations, team dynamics that are quietly eroding performance, and pressure from upper management that doesn't always come with a clear roadmap.
With more than 40 years working in healthcare and rehabilitation, I've sat where you're sitting. I understand the productivity demands, the staffing shortages, and the weight of knowing that how well your team functions directly affects the quality of care your patients and clients receive. That connection between strong leadership and quality outcomes isn't abstract to me — it's the reason I do this work. I don't bring theory to these conversations. I bring experience.
My coaching is practical and direct. We work on the actual situations you're navigating right now — not hypothetical leadership frameworks. Most of my clients come to me when something has shifted and they need a thought partner who understands their environment, shares their commitment to excellence, and won't waste their time.
If you're a healthcare or rehabilitation manager who is ready to lead with more confidence and less second-guessing — and who believes that a well-led team is a better-care team — I'd welcome a conversation.
Background & Expertise
Cathy Abshire brings more than 30 years of leadership, coaching, and management experience across healthcare, education, government, and nonprofit organizations. Her background includes supervisory and director-level roles with organizations such as New York University (NYU), the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), where she managed teams, mentored staff, and supported leaders through organizational change.
Throughout her career, Cathy has coached professionals at every stage—from new supervisors to experienced leaders—helping departments navigate transitions, strengthen communication, and build effective, collaborative teams. She is especially skilled at supporting employees who need the right guidance to regain confidence and perform at their best.
At the heart of Cathy’s work is a belief that strong leadership creates healthier, more effective workplaces. With the right support, leaders communicate more clearly, reduce conflict, and build trust. While leadership can be demanding, Cathy believes it can also be meaningful, rewarding, and sustainable with practical coaching and relationship-centered support.

